When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (John 19:30 NIV)
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV) I have been redeemed with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:19 NIV) For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. (Hebrews 10:10 NLT) By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. (Hebrews 10:10, 20 NLT) |
For Christ died for sins once and for all, a good man on behalf of sinners, in order to lead you to God. He was put to death physically, but made alive spiritually, (1 Peter 3:18 GNB)
Today is Good Friday. Let me just say, I am so thankful that Jesus paid the price for me! He gave his life for you, and for me, for the atheist, the murderer, the angry, the annoying, and all the people we see as unlovable.
If Christ would die for these people, the very least I can do is show them love and kindness.
Jesus blood has covered all my sins- I am forgiven. The very least I can do is forgive others, no matter what they have done to me.
Because of Jesus sacrifice I can boldly go before the throne of God and present my requests to Him. The very least I can do is remember to talk to God and show Him my love and gratitude by walking in His steps
Let's try not to do the very least, but our very best. We can never earn, repay, or deserve the salvation the Jesus death made possible. But that is the most amazing part about it, we don't need to earn it- we just need to accept the free gift. Accepting that free gift begins a relationship with God that is real and personal. Out of that relationship you will want to show God your love by obeying His commands.
Think of the person that you love most in this world. A spouse, parent, best friend, boyfriend, sibling, etc. Did anyone have to force you to love them? No, out of your relationship, love came naturally. Does anyone have to force you to spend time with that person or do things to bless them? Of course not, when you love someone you enjoy spending time with them and you want to go out of your way to help and serve them. God does not want a relationship that is forced and fake. He wants you to love Him because He loves you. He showed us that love in the most extraordinary way ever known to man.