Freedom

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. I Corinthians 1:18

To the world today, and to the world of every age, the message of the cross is indeed foolish to those who don’t believe and understand.  In Paul’s day, the cross was used by the Romans as a means of public execution!  A symbol of shameful crimes and powerlessness. The scripture is about God’s Son, dying for the sins of this world, to defeat sin, death and the devil and set us free. 

The message of the cross is the power of God for this reason and season. The greatest miracle of all, the most powerful event was when Christ was crucified on the cross, demonstrating God’s  love and forgiveness. He is a perfect example for us as we celebrate Easter.

Those of us who trust in Christ understand that without that powerful act, we would be lost without hope forever! Jesus speaks about how His suffering, death and resurrection fulfilled the prophecies found in the scriptures, emphasizing the divine plan of God at work. The cross transforms our lives forever as explained in 1Peter 2:24-25.

We are also reminded in Hebrews 9:22 that, “In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness”. Jesus underscores the importance of repentance and forgiveness of sins as the central theme in the message to be proclaimed to all nations today. The key to our freedom rests entirely upon our focus. Is our focus on our weaknesses and faults, or on the promise of freedom and the power of God within us?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 6:22-23

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely.

Reflection: 

The message of the cross is the most beautiful message of all! It is where salvation and eternal life is found. The cross draws, redirects and re-establishes us for eternity.

What is one way you have experienced God’s forgiveness and power in your life? Share it with one person in whichever way God leads you to.