Recently, my granddaughter and her husband, Caleb, brought me this painting which Caleb had painted. It’s just an impression…but very meaningful.After they left, I sat looking at it…and it brought me to tears. I could see the turmoil in the atmosphere, and at the same time, the Peace that was in Jesus…the peace that passes understanding.
Of course, the plan for His life here on earth, and His death at the hands of men, was agreed on in Heaven, before Jesus ever came to earth, but then we know about the agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He prayed…
If there is any other way, let this cup pass from me…nevertheless, not my will, but Yours be done.
As I sat looking into the painting, words started to form in my mind, and I felt I should write them down. So I wanted to share those words with you today…
The Cross – despised – an instrument of torture
Lifted – dragged along the cobbled street
Amid sharp spears and flashing swords
Ripping the canvas between heaven and earth – and hell.
Surrounded by an angry mob, and soldiers yelling orders
Bowed down in agony, our Lord
Surrendered to the Father’s Will.
No question in His heart…committed now
To all that lies ahead.
No one can rob Him now – or steal from Him
The pain that leads to Glory.
The end will justify the means
The Father’s Will is always good,
Although we may not understand.
And Jesus sees the end from the beginning…
The countless souls that will be gathered
In the harvest…
Shedding the ragged trappings of humanity
And taking on immortal robes of glory.
Oh, see Him lifted up – the cross so dreaded
Becomes the symbol of a pure Salvation…
A rescue operation so victorious
That none need face the sufferings of hell – unless by choice.
“Unless by choice”
We have a choice. Most of the people here have already made that choice. Have you? Jesus paid the price for all sin, for every man, woman and child, for all eternity. Now the choice is up to you. Will you believe the message and receive Jesus, the Christ, as Lord and Saviour…or will you reject the message and face the terrors of an eternity without God.
It’s a sobering thought for all of us. None of us knows how much time we have left on this earth. We need to know that we are headed for heaven.
In your heart of hearts say: Yes Lord, I believe. Yes Lord, I receive your great Salvation with a grateful heart and I thank you with all that is within me.
