Crucified For You Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:2b - 4

“Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people, then you won’t become weary and give up. After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin.”

It was to be the most horrendous night of the life of Christ. After washing their feet, He tried to share His heart with them, but even now – they could not understand that the Kingdom Jesus was going to build was not of this world, as so many can be caught up in 2017. Even in the group of 12, there was jockeying for position, with a mother asking Jesus to put her two sons at the left and the right hand, others arguing amongst themselves who was the greatest – with Jesus show and telling them that one of their very own would betray Him. ‘Is it I Lord’?

‘Remember me’, the Master said, then went with the 11 to the garden – taking those who were closest to Him to the place of prayer, telling them He was overwhelmed even to the point of death and asking them to watch and pray. Three times He came back each and every one they were asleep – yes, our Savior and Lord had to walk this road alone – He was, ‘Crucified For You’.

It was for the love of the Father towards everyone in this world that Christ suffered, died and rose again – Hallelujah! And where is He now my friends? Seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven – ever interceding that you and I will get it. Yes, there will still be some who will betray Him, there will be others that will call upon His name, but they are all wrapped up in their own interests, with their own selfish agenda’s.

But to each and every one of us, Jesus offers a life that is most significant, satisfying and eternally set in stone in the heart of the One who saved us. Much wider and deeper than we could ever think or begin to imagine.  It is taking up our cross and following after Jesus. Will there be those who criticize, use and even abuse us – of course. Others who speak evil or half truths against us – yes, to their own ends. However, whatever you and I are called to walk through my sister and brother, however hard it may seem to be, even if we feel as though we are all alone – we never are! For Jesus prayed in the garden, submitted to the will of the Father, and understands each and every thing that He is calling us to do.

He will never leave you, He knows all that you are going through, and His rich and marvelous grace is absolutely more than enough to see you through. So remember this not only for yourself, but to encourage one another until we all see Jesus face to face.

Prayer My Father in heaven how thankful I am for the rich joy of following Jesus. Spirit of God – light up the Way before me I pray and fill me with all that I need to take up my cross as I follow after Jesus, building up and encouraging my brothers and sisters all along the Way, I pray in His name.

Memory Verse: Philippians 3:12 “I ________ on to _______ the end of the _____ and ________ the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus is calling us.”