“And God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us” – Romans 5:8
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever would believe in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
The Lenten season is one of reflection. It is the 40 days and 6 Sabbaths leading us to the Easter celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We, as believers, are challenged to take this time to meditate on the sacrifice that Jesus made for us when He went to the cross and died for our sins.
Today is Ash Wednesday which is the beginning of this time focused on repentance and gratitude for the forgiveness that is ours through this wonderful work of God. The ashes traditionally remind us of our humanity and that we are created from the dust of the earth by God. In the Scripture, sackcloth and ashes are seen as a sign of humility and a plea for mercy.
Many choose to “fast” during this observance of our Lord’s suffering. This usually involves the subtraction or addition of something in one’s daily routine. This then serves as a daily reminder of the sacrifice and love of Jesus. This is a great way to enhance your preparation and ultimate celebration of the resurrection of our Savior.
It is my prayer that this daily devotion will be something that will bless you and turn your heart toward Jesus each day. We will be looking at the last words of Jesus from the cross. Words that He spoke as He was giving His life for us. There were seven things uttered that were recorded in the Scripture and we will look at each phrase and reflect on what they reveal to us about Jesus and…how they may challenge us to walk closer as His disciples.
Take time today to prayerfully think about what you will do during this time of Lent. I hope that this devotion will be part of that plan, but I also challenge you to think of some other things (like fasting from something or adding a spiritual discipline) that might change your daily routine just enough to remind you regularly of the great sacrificial love Jesus showed us by going to the cross.
As you begin I will ask you to find time today to read Isaiah 53:1-12 and Philippians 2:1-11. These passages help us begin to understand the heart of God behind that led Jesus to the cross for us. Let us be thankful today for the mercy and grace that is ours.