“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

As we consider the events which led to the crucifixion of Christ, we begin to recognize the amazing love God has for each one of us. We understand Jesus carried more than the weight of a heavy cross as He walked to the hill where He would die. 

He stumbled and fell as He carried the weight of our sin. Jesus suffered from what He was chosen to bare. He sweat blood from agonizing pain. As we consider the events which led to His death, we feel shame to think of what He endured.           

In moments of conflict, we need to remember God is aware of despair. He knows everything that happens in our lives. He knows when we need to sit with Jesus and find refuge while we're cradled in His care.         

When we allow Christ to lift us, we find calm in the comfort of PEACE and STRENGTH from His holiness. We find HOPE as we consider what's already been done for each one of us. We allow gratitude to fill our hearts.        

Jesus didn’t stay on the cross. He died and rose again! Through His death, burial and resurrection, He paid the price for our sin. He offers eternal life for those who know Him as a living Lord and believe He is the way to the Father. 

Salvation waits at the cross which was held in the arms of Jesus. In this season of opportunity to draw closer to Him, we mustn't turn away from His compassion and love. He is HERE and longs for us to have a deeper relationship. 

Jesus is deserving of more than what we give. He calls us worthy and reminds us we are valued and loved. Isn't that reason enough to surrender our sin, follow Him and allow Him to hold us together? The joy of the Lord is our strength. God will reward us with many blessings as we TRUST in Him.    

Dear Heavenly Father, as we reflect on the suffering of Christ, fill us with desire to love You more and understand what it means to be held by Your holiness. Humble our hearts to recognize the gift of salvation as we draw closer to Jesus. As we remember the sacrifice He made for each one of us, help us remember we are valued and loved. Thank you for everything You do to hold us together and bring peace to our hearts. Oh, how we love YOU. Amen