Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:2-3 (© NIVUK)
Whilst we often rejoice in what Christ acheived through the cross, the ctual act of crucificion was pretty horrific. It can be so easy to forget that the Romans crucified people because it was such a painful way to die.
Years ago I remember hearing a song about the two men who crucified either side of Jesus. The song tells the story of how one of the men was at first hurling insults at Jesus, but then comes to a point when he realises that Jesus doesn’t deserve to die, so he speaks up for him. The song ends with the verse:
When the shouts and curses did not stop even when the sunlight ceased
But somewhow in the midst of it, my soul had been released
And though the agony continued, it was still too small a price
To be allowed to hear those words, and to die beside the Christ!
Mistakes are a part of life, we all make them. Sometimes we are very quick to judge others when they mess up, but what does God think?
How does He treat people who make mistakes?
In our work with young people we often meet children who feel that they have already messed up so many times that no-one will ever forgive them. What a privilidge to be able to tell them about God’s forgviveness and acceptance.
As we near Easter, please pray for us as we take this powerful story of forgiveness into the schools with out latest assembly.