The Power of the Cross

Scripture Reading - John 12:32 "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."

The most powerful example of the love Christ has for you and me was exhibited to us when Jesus Christ was lifted up on the cross. That one event forever changed the course of mankind. It brought to us hope and the ability to be saved from not only the penalty of our sin but from our sins. No greater example of love and compassion has ever been shown toward anyone. If we would take time to consider the cross and just what if means to us, it would draw us closer and closer to Christ. I want you to picture in your mind this morning a man who never did any harm to anyone carrying an old rugged cross to his place of execution. I want you to visualize Him being beaten to the point of being unrecognizable. I want you to hear the cursing and mocking that the crowd was directing toward Him. Imagine the pain that was inflicted when the crown of thorns was placed on His head as they were making fun of Him for claiming to be a king. I want you right now to press your thumb into the center of your wrists as this is where the nails pierced His flesh as He was nailed to the cross. I want you to hear the words Jesus said to John as He trusted the care of His mother to him, "Woman, behold thy son, son behold thy mother." I especially want you to hear what Jesus thought of those who crucified Him, "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do." Finally, I want you to take a deep breath and exhale slowly thinking about Jesus as the breath left His body. All this was done for you and I, in order that we may have life and have it more abundantly. I praise Him today for the cross and the great price that was paid for humanity in general and me and you in particular. Never take it for granted.

Be Blessed and Live in the NOW!!!