Day 11 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.
Today's Word: "Never Give Up"
When Jesus was finished praying that night on the Mount of Olives He was ready for what awaited Him. He knew there was no turning back, He was born for such a time. The angels had spoke their last words to their Master. The only friends He had supported Him as much as they could. The time was now upon Him. The sound of soldier's armor filled His ears, palms began to sweat, breaths got deeper, and a smile came upon His face looking at Judas as He called Him friend.
Within a matter of moments the Creator of the universe was in chains being led away to His death. "Punish Him" was the cry from the Jews. Punched in the face and mocked, sweat and blood was running down His face. No words could stop what was coming, so He did not defend Himself. Led away to the Romans to be tortured, Jesus hears the sound in the distance of His closet friend deny Him.
Morning comes with mockery and deep pain, everyone watches- yet no one can see what really is happening- an innocent man is dying. In front of the crowds Jesus is not chosen, rejected for a thief, He sees the hands of a king try to wash away his guilt. Shouts rattle the floor, young men trade their former plans with joy to see a crucifixion this day.
Clothes ripped off and His body is thrown to the post, cries turn to groans- groans end in silent agony. Muscle, tissue, and blood find their way to the dirt. Nerves exposed bring pain that numb the mind. The fainting is restrained by the beam placed upon the exposed back. He can't see through the tears for those who cheer. Jesus' feet do not feel the ground once walked, hands numb that once created. Dragged up the hill- the blue sky is the only reminder of this world. Someone carries what was always meant for Him.
Nails, hammers, and screams make the sun disappear. Jesus can hear mocking, laughter, but the oxygen is escaping His lungs- the heart is racing- legs burn- the crown of thorns makes blood stain his face. He slips down to rest His arms- His shoulders loose from their place- dangling between heaven and earth, Jesus said, "It is finished."
Jesus never gave up. Why? "For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:2-3).
"Never Give Up!"
Reading: Hebrews 13 & Matthew 27.
Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641
No comments:
Post a Comment