Focus: Following Jesus is easy when everything runs smoothly. The cross is our reality check. Looking at a crucifix reminds us of suffering. Looking at an empty cross reminds us of the resurrection. Either way this is our story. Sometimes it is easier to focus on the beauty and glory of the resurrection. That’s what the early Christians tried to do but the world remembered the cross of crucifixion. The cross was the most shameful way to die in their world. When all was said and done, the manner of your death most revealed your character. Furthermore, the disciples ran and hid in fear of the Roman authorities. Women were the first to see the risen Jesus. In a patriarchal society these actions were suspect. This did not give credibility to Jesus. The martyrdom of Jesus was a stumbling block to His divinity. These thoughts still plague many today.
Prayer: Almighty God, Jesus, out of love for us, you endured the shame of the cross. May we never be ashamed of You, Jesus? May we be ever grateful that Your shame is our gift of new life? Amen
Read: Romans 9:33 NIV
As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.”
Meditation: The world finds the bloody Jesus hard to understand. Do you know people like that? They challenge us. How prepared are we to defend our Jesus? What do we tell them? How does sin play into the conversation? Are you ready to defend your Lord or could the world shame you into being quiet?
Benediction: “May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us to His own glory and excellence.” 11 Peter 1:2-3
