We attended two very different Good Friday gatherings this evening, but both were reminding us of the the same sacrifice and the suffering that Jesus allowed himself to experience on our behalf. And it hit me…..this is my birth story. Not the one that happened at the “Old Sacred Heart”, but the one that opened the way for freedom from sin and eternal life. My “salvation story” didn’t begin at Easter; it began long before, and
I was reminded tonight that we can rightly claim no part of the resurrection story if we aren’t willing to also embrace the cross and the salvation that was born of suffering and injustice. To be “fully Christian” means more than celebrating victory on Easter Sunday morning; it means also sitting with Jesus as he taught us how to suffer – faithfully and completely. But that’s not the fun part, right? It’s sooo much more satisfying to just jump to the victory, foe-vanquishing celebration!
I’ve learned a thing or two about suffering…..and I’m also learning so much about releasing that pain and allowing the peace of Jesus to create beauty in those desert places, so much more beautiful, not in spite of the suffering, but because of it. I think when we rush from Good Friday to Easter we do ourselves, and certainly our salvation story such a great disservice. The heavy lifting – the heart of the message happened in the darkness and if I want to fully celebrate Easter, I can’t turn my eyes away from Jesus when he is at his lowest….because he was only there for me, and for you. ♥
How He loves us, friends…..so much! You are worth such love….did you know that? You are worth every drop of blood that fell this day and every lash of a whip that Jesus took for us. He did it for love – and that’s a story worth retelling!
Much love and big hugs on this night where we choose to not turn away……
Shellie ♥
How Deep the Father’s Love For Us
How deep the Father’s love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory
Behold the man upon a cross
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom
Songwriters: Stuart Townend
How Deep The Father’s Love For Us lyrics © Capitol Christian Music Group