Jesus cries out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Mark 15: 34)
These words - the anguish and separation that Jesus experienced as he bore the sins of humanity on the cross. Despite the darkness and feeling abandoned, Jesus willingly submitted to the Father's will and endured the suffering for our redemption.
How great a burden He bare for us. The truth in this verse reminds us of our need for Jesus' sacrifice and the depth of his love for us. We may, too, face moments of darkness and feeling distant from God, but just as Jesus remained obedient and committed to the Father's plan, we, too, are called to trust in God's faithfulness and submit to his authority even in difficult times.
Sometimes, I find myself minimizing the sacrifice He made for me. I don’t do this intentionally but out of existing in this world and being caught up in fleshy ideas. Do I recognize the significance of the curtain being torn? Do I take time to sit and hear from God about the sacrifice of Jesus? Do I declare Jesus as the Son of God in my own life? Am I willing to stand firm in my faith, even when faced with challenges?
Will you join me this Easter week in taking time to reflect on what Jesus really did for us? Set a timer this afternoon for 5 minutes and don’t let any distraction in while you sit and just be with God. Ask Him into your heart again and again, open your Bible to the Resurrection story. Whatever works for you to reflect and take it all in. Maybe you will find yourself adding another 5 minutes to the timer…