Thursday, March 22, 2012

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

REDEEMER KING: FOR US (2)

It's not easy to give a gift to someone else. That is, it is not easy to do it without any thought at all for one's self--with our hearts and minds fully on the person we are gifting. When we do something loving for our neighbor, it is hard to keep our selfish thoughts from making an appearance, even if they are subtle. We might "pat ourselves on the back" just a little bit because we know we have done a good turn, or become somewhat disappointed if we don't receive the "thank you" we think we might have coming to us.

When Jesus died for us, He truly died for US. His entire focus, thought, and life was for us and for our salvation. He did not speak before Caiaphas, Annas, and Pilate in order to make a name for Himself. He did not endure the scourging, the mockery, and the nails in order to gain our sympathy that we should feel sorry for Him. All His suffering, even the God-forsaken moments on Good Friday--especially those--were for us.

Your Savior had you in mind every step of the way. Forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation is yours freely, a gift given for no other reason than this: Jesus loves you.

Soar we now where Christ has led!
Foll'wing our exalted Head!
Made like Him, like Him we rise,
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 193:5)