Holy Week Thoughts

Here we are in March of 2016...how did the time move so quickly. We are in the days leading up to the remembrance and celebration of the death and resurrection of Christ. Wednesday is the quiet day in our Scriptures. A day of reflection and anticipation for me. As I have pondered and meditated the meaning of these sacred days, I have once again entered into an awe-filled state. It amazes me that this human race that is so sinful, is so desperately loved by the One who created us. The traumatic events in Brussels yesterday is just another reminder of how lost many in our world are. My heart breaks for those who have lost loved ones in these tragic times. May God heal their broken hearts.

My heart also breaks for those who are on the other side of this situation. They are lost, yet believe they are enlightened. What they are dying for, they embrace and believe in strongly enough that they are willing to give their lives for the cause. Even so, Jesus died for them. Jesus came to this earth a babe, nestled in the womb of a virgin teenage girl, was born, grew, taught, trained disciples, shared His message; healed the sick, lame, blind, deaf and dumb. He didn't stop there, oh no. He then surrendered His rights, His comfort, and His freedom - all for His love of humanity. His grace-filled, boundless, limitless love drove Him to cry out in agony - pain of the sins of the world were placed on Him as He was nailed to that cross so many years ago on Calvary.

As He bore the burdens of us all, He had an important word of hope to all - "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do," (Luke 23:34 NKJV). Jesus' story didn't finish on the cross or in the grave because He arose defeating death. Today, He is alive and is interceding on our behalf. He loves us so much and has made a way that all people - no matter your background, culture, gender, age, social standing - to have a personal relationship with Him. God the Father is waiting for each of us to accept His Son as their Savior. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice - He died once for all. He loves you. He will forgive every sin when we repent of it. He has paid the price to restore you to the relationship He created you for. Are you ready to accept His gift of grace and celebrate this Easter as a new creation?

Praying for you,
Natalie