“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5
The ashes that marked the foreheads of millions of believers on Ash Wednesday just weeks ago, held a reminder for us.
We are but dust.
Yet His story reminds us of so much more – we are redeemed. We are set free. We have been given new life, an open door, through Jesus Christ.
The ashes are a clear picture of the frailty of human existence. And though many times we may somehow think we’re invincible in this life, or even led to believe that we are not “needy” of a Savior, when hit with life’s struggles or face to face with painful events, we quickly remember, we need help. We need a Savior.
We have One, who also was broken, in ways we could never fully comprehend, yet he remained strong, and chose to endure it all – for us.
He extends grace to remind us we don’t have to stay stuck in our struggle and pain. He holds good in store through it all, able to bring greater purpose, greater beauty, greater strength. He never intends for us to remain in the pit of our despair. For he breathes fresh life.
God brought beauty out of the brokenness of the cross, he gives beauty for our ashes. His sacrifice offers forgiveness for our sin. The power of the Resurrection gives hope for our future.
There’s such power there.
God sent His Only Son.
He loved.
He gave.
There was no other way…but this.
As we enter into this weekend, may we take a closer look at the reality of it all. The suffering of the cross. The huge sacrifice that Christ paid. The pain that was endured. The great cost of His gift. The love that was shown. The freedom He offers.
It’s not a flowery picture of fluff and stuff.
But it’s the most powerful story ever told.
Incredible sacrifice.
Amazing grace.
Dear God,
We remember today, the pain and suffering of the cross, and all that Jesus was willing to endure, so we could be set free. He paid the price, such a great sacrifice, to offer us the gift of eternal life.
Help us never to take for granted this huge gift of love on our behalf. Help us to be reminded of the cost of it all. Forgive us for being too busy, or distracted by other things, for not fully recognizing what you freely given, what you have done for us.
Thank you Lord that by your wounds we are healed. Thank you that because of your huge sacrifice we can live free. Thank you that sin and death have been conquered, and that your Power is everlasting.
Thank you that we can say with great hope, “It is finished…” For we know what’s still to come. And death has lost its sting. We praise you for you are making all things new.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
(This post also appears here on iBelieve.com http://www.ibelieve.com/devotionals/your-daily-prayer/a-prayer-for-good-friday-your-daily-prayer-april-13-2017.html)
Death has lost its sting indeed. So very thankful. A blessed Easter to you, Debbie!
Thank you Cheryl, huge blessings to you as well!
Debbie you really shine and I’m sure you reach many people in a lot of places. I am glad someone takes the time tohonor God in these days. I hope Jesus touches you in a very special way this Easter!!! I have been a Christian for 31 years and ask to walk as much like Jesus as possible EVERY DAY. Keep standing strong. I have four children, eight grandchildren,and a great grand child and all but two are in church. It surely pays to honor God!!! THANK YOU.
Thank you Sandra for being here & for your kind words, have a Blessed Easter with your family!
Just to let you know that its not only for Good Friday but for all of time that you have penned this. I just discovered your posts today and it has been so overwhelming. What a gift from God you are to your generation and beyond. What a blessing you are to your family and associates. May the Spirit of the Lord continue to give more revelations and insights of His word. Stay blessed Debbie