We Have Seen the LordSample

Look to the Cross

Crucifixion is one of the most devilish forms of execution invented by man. It produces unimaginable pain, is designed to prolong suffering, and brings its victims to the depths of hopelessness, despair, and humiliation. Breathing is only possible if the criminal pushes downward on the nail through his feet to raise himself upward to draw air into his lungs, which produces a twisting motion on the nails driven through major nerves in the hands/wrists. Blood drains from the body at a slow trickle, causing dehydration that produces intense thirst and fainting. All the while, the insects and birds torment the criminal during hot days and cold nights. This process can last three days as organs gradually fail, ending their torment.

John 19:17-27 describes the crucifixion of Jesus. He was paraded through the streets like a common criminal after being beaten within an inch of His life. He was so badly beaten He could not carry his own cross without help. He was stripped of His clothing and nailed to a cross between two criminals, with His mother and a few brave disciples standing nearby. Above His head hung a sign that mocked Him in three different languages as “King of the Jews.” The most incredible part of Jesus’ crucifixion, unlike the other two men hanging next to Him, was that He chose to be there on the cross that day. He had you and me in mind when He made that choice. There was no other way for us to be saved from sin.

The Hebrew Scriptures foreshadow that day on the cross when the people of Israel sinned and were bitten by serpents (Numbers 21:6-9). The remedy: Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a standard, and it shall come about that everyone who is bitten, when he looks upon it shall live (v. 8). We all have a sin problem: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).” Someone must pick up the paycheck for our sin: “for the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23).” Yet, God offers us a free gift: “He made him who knew no sin to BE sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21).” Do you want to understand the depth of God’s love for you? Do you want to receive God’s gift of eternal life? Are you in need of forgiveness? Bitten by any serpents lately and need healing of soul or body?

Look to the cross.

Prayer

Lord, I come to You today, humbled by the price You paid for my sin on the cross at Calvary, knowing that it was love for me that compelled You to suffer in such a horrific way. I acknowledge that there was no other way. Your sacrifice was the only cure for my sin, and I am so thankful that the cure has done its work. I am alive in You; my sins washed away by Your blood. I will be forever grateful for what You did for me on that cross. Empower me to live a life worthy of the sacrifice You made. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.

James T. Flynn, D.Min., is the associate dean of Instruction & Operations and associate professor of Practical Ministry for the Regent University School of Divinity.