...other meditations

remember the cross

traveling for work, i have the pleasure of viewing God's creation every day. i trek through the hills, valleys and farmlands, as i receive the breathtaking view of the appalachian mountains. throughout this journey, i am able to reflect on God's power and creativity; His goodness and faithfulness. yet one thing captures my heart and causes me to remember the precious Gift He gave to us.

from a different angle, to me, this old stump is a vivid reminder of God's one and only Son, Jesus Christ. it portrays the cruel nature of death Jesus suffered. this 'cross', twisted from a tree, paints the ironic picture of His beautiful sacrifice of life. and because of this sacrifice, its significance of Grace and Forgiveness comes pouring out.

if it weren't for this one reminder, how often would i remember my Saviour, Jesus Christ, and what He did for me? i am both afraid and ashamed to face the answer to that question. the truth is, a lot of us don't spend much time thinking about it. like many things in life, we learn it, accept it and then take it for granted. certainly, we are drawn to the story of Jesus when the easter season approaches. we also recollect the crucifixion during times of Holy communion. but, how does it escape our minds and hearts so easily? Jesus' willingness to die for you and for me, so that we might live forever in eternity with God in heaven, should always be at the forefront of our minds.

we do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Originator and Perfecter of our faith. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy He knew would be His afterward. now He is seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne in heaven. think about all He endured when sinful people did such terrible things to Him, so that you don't become weary and give up. hebrews 12:2,3 NLT

when we consider the cross of Jesus Christ, we're reminded of God's precious Gift of Salvation. Eternal Life is freely offered to us and we can freely receive it if we believe and receive Him. when our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we are able to experience the joy of Salvation over and over again. we can't help but say "thank you" in love and sincerity. Jesus did it all; He endured everything we've endured and will endure. yet, He paid the ultimate price for you and for me. remember the cross—remember Jesus!

a sinner, saved by grace,
in need of a daily reminder,

tamara