Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?" They all said, "Let Him be crucified!"
Matthew 27:50
And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. (NAS)
Death seems so tragic and senseless. We struggle to find meaning in the death of a baby or teenager. When someone is killed in an accident we question the reasons why anyone would have to die in such a meaningless way. Yet there was one death that on the surface looks tragic and senseless and meaningless, but when observed through the eyes of God makes all the fog roll away.
Jesus' death was not an ordinary one. He died for a reason. He died to be a substitute and a sacrifice for us. He died with the sin of the whole world on Himself. He took our place in order that we might have eternal life. He also died to forgive us of our sin. We sinned against a Holy God and needed forgiveness. Jesus' blood that He shed on the cross washes away our sin. He also died to give us direct access to God.
His death was unique in that He did not stay dead. Three days after His death and burial He arose from the dead. His resurrection not only proves He was God, but also provides each of us with life, His life. Religion offers rules and laws that give a false hope of eternal life. Jesus' death and resurrection provides a relationship with God that gives true hope. That hope is not only for life in eternity, but life right now. Jesus declared that He came to give us life and life more abundantly.
By faith and trust in God's way of salvation through Christ you can experience the life He has for you. God is only a prayer away for each one of us. Ask God to forgive you. come into your life and place your faith in Jesus' death and resurrection and you can be saved. Jesus made the way possible. He died that you might have hope; not only in this life but for eternity in a place called heaven. Have you come to faith in Jesus? Do you know Him? Have you heard that He loves you? Trust Him for life today.
______________________Today's personal note from Dennis
Greetings from Starbucks!Sandy and I had a great day worshipping with the First Southern Baptist Church in Miami, AZ. Sandy texted Roger and told him I was preaching in Miami on Sunday. He told us to have some Cuban food for him. Wrong Miami, Roger! We even had some snow on the way to Miami on Sunday evening. It was really special to see the white stuff fall from the sky, but mighty glad I don't have to shovel it.
Our family is doing well. Mandy and John have their first baby shower on Sunday. We are looking forward to that. Mandy continues to do well. Susan is close to moving into her new town home. It has taken several months to do the remodel, but it will be worth it.
Roger, Jen, Burke and Bennett are busy folks. Bennett has a lead role in the upcoming school musical, "Bye, Bye Birdie". He spends his time with rehearsals and homework. He managed to attend a youth retreat over the weekend.
God continues to open doors for ministry. It is such a joy to talk to people about the Lord.
I would appreciate your prayers for an upcoming Doctor's appointment on Friday. I am still having considerable pain in the area of my liver. I don't know what it is, but hopefully the Doctor can discover the cause, and that it will be nothing serious.
You are an encouragement to both me and Sandy. Thanks for your love, concern and prayers. We praise God for our support system. It means a lot.
May God bless you today. May you be encouraged at home, at work, at school and at church.
~ DGW
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