Easter Week: Day 4 - Today is the Day

Today is the Day.

Today is the day the whole world hated one Man.
Today is the day the crowds called for the crucifixion of one Man.
Today is the day Barabbas, the murderer, was pardoned in order to kill one Man.
Today is the day the crown of thorns and lead ended whips went into one Man.
Today is the day many cried over lost hope because of the death of one Man.

But. . .

Today is the day death was conquered by one Man.
Today is the day our sins were purged from us unto one Man.
Today is the day the gates of heavens are opened because of one Man.
Today is the day salvation was made known to all because of one Man.

Mark Driscoll in his book "Death by Love" paints the picture of this day. Here is a collaboration of his account:

Jesus was sentenced to be murdered. He was blindfolded and was beaten. He was handcuffed, and whipped with a hook that ripped out his flesh, muscles and tendons. He had thorns shoved into his head. He had a 100 pound cross put on his back. He then had to carry it to his own hill of death. Then they pulled his beard out and began driving nails into his hands. They were 5-7 inch nails and then they nailed them into his feet. His body began to twitch involuntarily as he screamed in sheer agony. Then he was lifted up and his body was handing on the nails.

This style of punishment was the most disgraceful, horrid, disgusting way to be put to death.

So How in the world can we celebrate it Today and this weekend?

First because we know that on the 3rd Day (This Sunday) he rose again and death did not keep him down.

Second - it is the snapshot of God's Love, and Jesus mercy and grace, for all believers. It is for all who believe in him. It is for anyone who trusts in him, and not themselves.

Humbling, isn't it.

Copy, Paste, & Print

1.) Write down the kind of feelings you truly get when you read, hear or see the crucifixion story. Does it cause you to feel sick?
2.) Do you spend time thinking about the actually events that took place this day? Or can you admit that you take it for granted? If you are feeling "blue" right now - that’s okay, it is a hard thing to grasp. If don't you feel sad - write down how you feel.
3.) Try reading the various accounts in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John of Jesus' punishment and death.
4.) Like yesterday, spend some time in prayer, thankful for the blood of Jesus.

Keep Rockin' for Jesus!

Vital Link Student Ministry, Pastor Joey Ruyter, 4.10.09