Nailed to a Tree

Several years ago, I wrote about why I don’t like Easter. https://wordpress.com/post/redlettermomentscom.wordpress.com/441

Each year, my relationship with Jesus grows closer to a friendship. But yet, this week still holds a sting. I find myself short-tempered, irritable, and restless as I internally struggle, knowing that my sin nailed my friend to a tree. 

Maybe it’s because my self-worth has yet to grow into being worth that sacrifice. Or perhaps it’s because my dance with sin is similar to Paul’s when he says…”For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” Romans 7:15

Ugh! Like almost anything in life that gives me unrest, I realize I have two choices. I can draw closer to Jesus, explore why I feel this way, or distance myself and numb those feelings. This week I intentionally chose to draw close and listen to what God had to say. 

When I came across this scripture on Tuesday morning, these words changed my perspective for this Good Friday. “Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.” John 5:22

God didn’t make Jesus die on the cross for me. Jesus made that choice. It’s silly to think that I put Jesus on the cross on my own strength. It would be like my seven-month-old nephew trying to pick me up and put me on the kitchen counter. Sure, it would be cute to watch, but it would be impossible to achieve.

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” ~Jesus
Matthew 28:18

“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.” ~Jesus Revelation 22:13

You can’t force the author of authority to do anything. 

The sin of Adam and Eve in the garden is so much bigger than the self-soothing ways I have picked up in the last 40 years. Jesus solved the original sin issue by choosing to be the sin offering/sacrifice/atonement and declaring that we were worth enough to be covered by it too. 

Friday was a brutal day for my King. Sunday, a great victory was had! We are a prize worth fighting for, dying for, and beloved enough to return for. That is the posture that I am working on this week. Thank you for walking with me through it. 

Happy Easter! 
In His service and at yours!
~Shawn