The Greatest Gift

In preparing my heart for Easter this year, I read through a devotional that delved deeper into the week from Palm Sunday to Easter. Looking at all four gospels, the original Greek text and historical sources from that era, the book explored many elements of Christ’s life leading to the cross and resurrection.

Investigating details often overlooked in a casual reading of the passion story, a deepening sense of appreciation and awe took root in my heart. A greater awareness of what Christ endured and His response to His tormentors challenged my own response to others and the difficult situations I encounter.

Challenge: How often do I quickly and cheerfully accept an opportunity to follow God’s plan?

Christ willingly went to the cross. There were multiple opportunities for Jesus to avoid the pain and suffering, yet He chose to do so for us. He gladly laid down His life for you and me. Hebrews 12:2 tells us why He followed through with the plan. “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” That joy was knowing He was making a way for us to be restored to fellowship with our Heavenly Father.

Challenge: How often do I respond with unconditional love when people hurt, misalign, or disappoint me?

Jesus demonstrated that unconditional love to his tormentors who did the most incomprehensible things to Him. He was beaten with rods, slapped, spit upon, mocked, taunted, scourged to the point of His body being flayed and then crucified. Despite all those horrific ordeals, He prayed and asked His Heavenly Father to forgive them. What unconditional love!

Challenge: Am I looking for ways to help others around me despite my own challenges?

In the Garden when the soldiers arrest Jesus, Peter managed to make a mess of things by cutting off the ear of the high priest’s servant. Because Jesus didn’t want Peter to have to deal with the consequences of his rash action, Jesus stops everything long enough to heal the man. Christ had enough on His hands without that problem, yet He cared about Peter and demonstrated compassion for the injured man who had come to arrest Him. We also see Jesus’ care of others when He assigns John to take care of His mother. At this point, Jesus is struggling to even take a breath and yet He ensures that His mother will be cared for when He goes to Heaven.

As we reflect on the greatest gift every given as we celebrate Easter this weekend, will you join me in thanking Him for what He endured to gain our salvation and then demonstrating His unconditional love to those around us? May we all be our risen Savior's hands and feet to a very hurting world.