“While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God.”
Hebrews 5:7 NLT
The above verse refers to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed before He was arrested and taken away to suffer and die for us. This experience was written in the synoptic gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke. The fact that it was recorded reveals the humanity of Jesus. More important was His prayer which ended: “not my will but Yours be done oh Lord!”
As we are in the lead up to Easter it is good to forget about ourselves and consider what Jesus experienced. Many who have been martyred for their faith knew and know what it is to suffer and die for daring to believe in Jesus and the truth of the gospel. We in the West can only speculate what this suffering entails. It is good for us to consider and respect this suffering.
Because of the Cross we have freedom from sin’s power and access to heaven. Jesus paved the way. After centuries of being excluded we are brought inside the gates of heaven through faith in the finished work of the cross. By this I mean Jesus paid the price, for all of our sins, so that faith in His work brings us to the Father. We cannot add to Jesus’ sacrifice as it was enough for all mankind, for all time. We may feel the heavy weight of our sin, but repentance brings God’s forgiveness. We must let go of guilt and shame and accept the gift given to us with a heart of deep gratitude and worship. Amen!
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