When I survey the wondrous cross on which my Prince of glory died; my richest gains I count but loss, and poor contempt on ALL MY pride
Powerful song. I woke up to it and felt compelled to share it with us. Good day to you all.
The Cross. Such a powerful, yet strange icon to represent a resurrection- based Faith. One would think that we would focus on the Empty Tomb. After all, Jesus is Risen – He is So not stuck on a cross nor in a tomb. Yet we cling to the Cross as though we’re fixated on a dead/dying, suffering Jesus. And we are. Although we are not.
For, we are aware that He broke the curse of death by taking on OUR sins when nailed to the Cross (see 1 Peter 2:24); and transformed the shame of our sins by being crucified like a common criminal (see Hebrews 12:2), just so we could enjoy the wonder of being called by His name!
Yup. Powerful!
We also acknowledge the reality that though He endured all that; He then conquered death to ensure we didn’t have to suffer what we’re truly due … punishment for our sins.
But, there’s one other critical element to the Cross to which we must connect – even as we focus on Jesus Christ. When we think of His choice for the Cross, we ought also remember that we are called to the Way of the Cross.
See. It’s ALL here in today’s Holy Nougat
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24 NLT
Our decision to follow Jesus invites sacrificing our delightful selves for others; taking on their shame (rather; allowing God to take their shame while we are contaminated by association with – but not adoption of – their sins) and pointing them to Christ’s blessed love.
For; on that special night before the Crucifixion began; Jesus once again MADE the Choice for US. He became the scapegoat for society’s wrongs and fulfilled His role as enemy of the State to secure our freedom.
That’s sacrifice.
- Deny our comfort. Take on the mantle of Christ. Offer Life in Christ via death to Self. Be subject to God. Follow God’s plan.
That’s what we’re called to do and be as disciples. Let’s think about it once again.
When I survey THAT Cross, do I truly see what it means? Selah
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
