I am looking at you Jesus, staring actually, and I have to get something off my chest. I know why you are hanging there on that cross. It’s because of me. You taught me the way of God’s love, but I failed to listen. You showed me how to walk by faith, but I wandered off in my own direction. I didn’t always love you with my whole heart, and I seldom love my neighbor with the love you have for me. It’s my fault. I’m the guilty one.
Jesus, I can’t put into words how I feel at the moment. I should be there, not you. I should be the one sentenced to die, but you stepped in. On Sunday, I shouted “Hosanna!” But today my voice was one of those calling for your crucifixion. Oh, why did I do that? What was I thinking? Yes, I know, I was thinking of myself.
But there you are, on the cross. In all of my sin and shame, staring at you, I have this strange sensation. Yes, I am guilty. Yes, I deserve to be there in your place, but there you are…in mine. Somehow, I can’t help but feel thankful. There is a joy that is washing over me like springs of fresh water. Seeing you bleeding breaks my heart yet I feel, well, cleansed…no…redeemed. That’s it, I feel the joy of redemption. And it all happened when I heard you speak. “Father, forgive them, they no not what they are doing.”
Prayer: Thank you Jesus. It’s all I can say. Thank you for your grace. Amen.
In the Beginning 