Wednesday, 25 October 2023

NAILED TO HIS CROSS

 


Imagine your name with your every sin written on a placard and nailed to the cross of a person who has done no wrong to pay the price of suffering on your behalf in the valley of humiliation and death. This is the imagery Paul used to personalize the Atonement to the understanding of the Colossian saints (Colossians 2:14-15). In his day it was customary for Romans to write the crimes committed by the condemned person on a placard and nailed to the cross at the time of his crucifixion for all to see (John 19:19-22).

I have had occasion to reflect on this when enduring seemed like too big a task with a stark realization that if I didn’t ‘press toward the mark’ as Paul admonished (Philippians 3:14), I would be paying unthinkable dishonour to the most benevolent sacrifice for my soul. Not only this, but a gratitude for that sacrifice which erased my every indignity by paying the demands of justice so that I might not suffer the pains of a damned soul. Is there a greater debt than this? Or a greater repayment we could and should ever make? All that we are and can come to be we owe to Him who honoured that placard on His cross at Calvary……

 

A life laid bare in selfless giving

For man’s purpose of salvation

Crimson drops were spilt like roses

On the hill of His creation.

 

- CATHRYNE ALLEN 

(Art: The Glory of Jesus Christ by Ralph of Gratis Graphics)

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