2 Corinthians 5:21,  "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." Ephesians 1:7-8,  "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."

Think

"We are rescued by the redemptive work of Christ!" In each of the gospels in the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), we read the account of Jesus' crucifixion. At times, though, words on a page can soften reality.  We read phrases like "flogged" and "beaten" and don't understand the true torture behind them. Yet, Jesus willingly endured it on our behalf. Why? Because he loves us. Jesus could have chosen to quit before he endured the unlawful trial, the humiliation, the mocking, and the unimaginable pain that he faced. He could have stopped it all and given up on his purpose to restore our relationship and connection to God. But he didn't! He took all our sin and shame upon himself so that we could be redeemed and forgiven. He paid for our sin through his suffering and death. And because he faced the ultimate pain of our judgement, we don't have to. Now, through his death and resurrection, we have the opportunity to spend eternity with him in heaven, and we are given a purpose on earth to point as many people as possible to Jesus!

Act

Take a moment to read Matthew 27:11-56 and reflect on what Jesus endured as he died for you. Close your eyes and imagine yourself at the foot of the cross during his crucifixion. Take a moment to meditate on the fact that he knew that pain was coming but chose to endure it for you and me.

Pray

Jesus, thank you for your extreme sacrifice for me. I can't begin to imagine the pain you experienced. I am completely humbled realizing the suffering you chose to endure so my sins could be forgiven. Help me to never take your sacrifice for granted. Amen!