A Journey to the Cross: Walking Toward Jesus this Easter

What does the cross represent to you?

At Christmas time we celebrate the birth of baby Jesus. We are reminded that God chose to send His son in the flesh leaving His heavenly throne. This is a gift; an incomparable gift, filling us with hope. The season is filled with joy and peace as we celebrate this great act of love. 1 John 4:9-10

Jesus’ journey to the cross was the plan from the beginning. But even before the world began, God was love. Before He spoke the world into existence, He had an eye on us. “even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ” Ephesians 1:4-5

Knowing we need a savior, Jesus took his place upon that cross because of His great love for us.

His love endures all things and is never-ending. His love reaches those deep places of our heart in our pain and disappointment. We read the gospels to know that Jesus, too, experienced rejection and betrayal. There were times He was hungry, thirsty, tired, and angry. He felt sorrow and wept. In obedience, He often went away to be with His Father to pray and find rest. Jesus experienced everything that we do. He understands our hardships and struggles. He comes along side us to bring comfort. We can lean on Him for strength. His love never fails. We can and should take refuge in Him. Psalm 36:7 He is the God that never changes, though His love changes us.

Your Journey to the cross this Easter

Scripture Reflection:

Titus 3:4-7

Hebrews 12:2

1 John 4:16

Reflection Questions:

1. How does your understanding of being chosen, predestined as sons and daughters to Him, change how you see your life? How you might live?

2. He saves us because of His righteousness and mercy not because of our work or good deeds. Though understanding and believing this can be a challenge, it also brings freedom. Are there any areas in your life you are striving to control? Those areas you hold onto thinking you know better than God? Those areas where your performance and recognition become more important than the freedom of living in His will?

3. Knowing that He came to die for the sins of the world so that we might have eternal life, what thoughts and emotions arise? How have you experienced God’s love in and over your life?