THE CROSS

When you think of the cross where Jesus gave His life

What comes to mind? The agony and suffering?

Or maybe the thieves who hung on either side?

Maybe the pain of His mother Mary as she watched her precious son die

Did she really understand it was for nothing He had done?

Do you think of the disciples who thought they knew Him best?

But did they fully realize why Jesus wept?

Do you think about the seven last words and the lasting impact they would leave?

Do you think of the thief who changed his mind and said Lord remember me?

Do you think of the evil hearts that decided our Jesus would have such a cruel end? Even after Herod declared he found no fault in Him!

Do you think how the priests mocked Him? They told Him if He is the Son of God, ”Then save thyself!”

Do you think about it was only God the Father on whom He could depend?

No matter which of these thoughts the cross brings to your mind, the most important fact to remember is this:

If Jesus had not suffered, bled and died on that old rugged cross,

Our hope for eternal life with Him in glory would not exist!

Author: Etrulia V. Brady -- 2003