Our Lord and Savior came to earth in human form and dwelt among us. How amazing is that? He lived a completely sinless life, serving the poor, lame, sick and the lost. He came to serve and to save. He died an excruciating death on the cross out of sheer obedience to the Father, out of love for you and me.
Why is it so difficult for us to sacrifice for others, to die to ourselves daily knowing that Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross for all of our sins, past, present and future? Have you ever pondered that? I have been reflecting on it quite a bit lately, particularly during this Holy week. As we read the scriptures leading up to His death and resurrection, we know that Jesus was fully aware of what He would have to endure. Yet, He continued to serve, teach, love and even break bread with the one who would betray Him. Our Lord gives us the perfect example of walking through adversity and persecution with grace. He gave everything willingly and lovingly to the point of death on the cross so that we may live. That is precisely why we must learn to live in light of eternity, storing up treasures in heaven, following the example of Jesus, our Redeemer. When we grow tired and weary and everything around us looks hopeless. Remember the cross. Remember Jesus is our Hope. We must keep our eyes fixed on Him.
fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:2-3
We have nothing to fear. Death was defeated on the cross. His perfect sacrificial love sealed our eternal home. We are just passing through this life. Let us make the most of every opportunity to share the love of Jesus,
He has a wonderful plan and purpose for each one of us to fulfill for His glory. Let His perfect love cast out our fear so that we may live the abundant life He died to give us (1 John 4:18, John 10:10).
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4-5
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
Let us walk boldly in the victory we have in Jesus. Our Savior, the sinless Lamb of God, died for us, and was raised to life on the third day. He lives! Our Redeemer lives! Therefore, we must live, not just survive but truly live, live for Him. We must live as Jesus did, serving and loving sacrificially in complete obedience to our Heavenly Father.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Romans 12:1
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Roman 12:9
May we sit in our Father’s presence this week, soaking in His love and thanking Him for the gift of eternal life through the sacrifice of His Son. May we never forget His great mercy, His immeasurable love and kindness. He says we are chosen, set-apart, beloved, forgiven and redeemed. Let us show the world what it looks like to walk in victor and to love like Jesus.
Heavenly Father, merciful God, we love You. We worship You. You are such a good, good Father, perfect in every way. We cannot begin to thank You for Your amazing grace, Your infinite love and kindness. No matter what we are facing, You are with us and nothing can separate us from Your love. Thank You for sending Jesus to die on the cross for all of our sins and for raising Him from the dead, defeating death and giving us the victory. Help us to walk in that victory. Help us to love well, to serve willingly and cheerfully, to put others needs above our own. Lord, help us to be bold and courageous, to not live in fear. We know Your perfect love drives out all fear. Strengthen our faith. Help us to encourage one another and hold each other up. Thank You for our family of believers. Help us to plant the seeds of hope and love sacrificially so others will see You through us and be drawn to You. Thank You Lord, for everything! In Jesus’ Mighty, Matchless Name, Amen and Amen!
