Saturday, March 31, 2012

Isaiah 53:5
With his stripes we are healed

My readings on the Roman scourge has me contemplating how as human beings how could we think of such reprobate and degrading things to do to other humans. How do we even begin to let our thoughts sink to such an all time low? I can’t help but looking at the physical implication of a whip attached with nails and sharp implements to tear flesh and arteries. Surely, we are made in God’s image. That is what the Bible teaches. The Tread-wheel on which they punished African slaves in the Americas was also atrocious. Other atrocities abound that are equally unspeakable. I often find myself thinking about Christ the man. I keep thinking of how young he was during the time of his ministry up to his death yet, with such love, maturity and dignity he did what he came to do. That is an example that we should all follow! And even though it may be a hard act to follow, we must believe that with Christ all things are possible. When we have moved beyond the physical aspect of Christ’s death, let us consider the spiritual implications. Let us do what he has called us to do so that his death may not be in vain, because if we believe he will give us power to become the children of God.

When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of Glory died;
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.

2. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
save in the death of Christ, my God;
all the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to his blood.

3. See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
sorrow and love flow mingled down.
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
or thorns compose so rich a crown.

4. Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were an offering far too small;
love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.