This week we will look more at where our hope lies. When you think of the hope you have in the cross, what does it look like? We need to use caution when we focus on an ornamental cross. We can lessen the price paid for our sins.  We can reduce the price of the lashes that tore Jesus’ skin as they flogged Him.  We lessen the pain felt as he struggled to carry the cross to Calvary Hill.   He was going to His death, they would show Him no mercy.

Luke 22:42-44 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”  An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.  And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.

Jesus came out of the garden ready to face the agony before him, knowing the agony would lead to his death, but also his resurrection.

John 18:2-5 Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.  So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)

When you remember the price of the bloodied cross and you have accepted Jesus as your personal Savior and Lord of your life, this changes you.  You are willing to commit more to the personal walk God has for you.  The bloodied cross held his body as he died to give us life.  An eternal life to be spent with Him.  We need to caution ourselves so the cross stays as a reminder of the price Jesus paid for us and not allow it to become an idol that we worship.

Written and posted by Joyce E Poggensee

Verses referenced: Luke 22:42-44,  John 18:2-5