With the Easter season here, we find that one or two areas are the focus of our attention. Some people focus on Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. Others race past the pain He suffered on our behalf, and focus on the hope of the resurrection. But to fully understand Christ’s finished work on the cross, we must consider both of these moments together, as combined, they change history, life, and life and eternity. 

On good Friday, nothing about it might have seemed good at the time. In fact what happened that day was horrifically torturous: Jesus was betrayed by one of his best friends, He was put through a sham trial under Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, our Lord was beaten and whipped, a crown of thorns was mockingly placed on His head, He was given vinegar to drink instead of water, and Jesus was forced to carry a heavy cross. 

Jesus carried our burden, endured our agony, He died for us, He took on our sin and shame, and He paid the price for it all with His life. The Bible declares that we have all sinned, and sin separates us from God, (Rom 3:23). It also says that “the wages for sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus” (Rom 6:23). 

So friends the death and resurrection of Jesus is the complete work of Jesus Christ, to bring us back to God. Father in heaven, In the name of Jesus, I pray that during this season, the preaching of Your Word will bring an awakening, and an acceptance of the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the hope that He has given to the world. I pray that by the mighty power of Christ’s resurrection, more people than ever will turn from sin, turn to Jesus and follow Him. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray. Amen.