Genesis 3:9 – “Where Are You?”
In Genesis, we witness not merely an interrogation but a poignant cry from a loving Father. Adam and Eve found themselves in a state of bondage due to their choices. Reflect on your own life. Where are you? What condition do you find yourself in?
Matthew 11:28-30 MSG – Come to Me
Jesus extends a tender invitation to those weary and burdened by life’s struggles. Are you exhausted, feeling burnt out by the weight of religion? Jesus offers true rest and the unforced rhythms of grace. Walk with Him, and you’ll discover freedom and lightness.
What title do you give Jesus?
Good man? Prophet? Liar? Lunatic? Healer? Magician? Messiah? Lord? Conqueror of Sin and Death? God?
Mark 8:29 – “Who do you say that I am?”
Jesus poses a profound question to each of us: Who do we say He is? Is He merely a good man, a healer, or something more? Our answer shapes our faith and understanding of His divine purpose.
Mark 15:34 – “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
In Jesus’ cry from the cross, we hear echoes of Psalm 22, penned by King David centuries earlier. Jesus, in His humanity, experienced the agony of feeling forsaken, fulfilling ancient prophecies and demonstrating the depth of His sacrifice.
Psalm 22:8 ESV ‘ “He trusts in the Lord ; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” ‘
1000 years later, look what they said as Jesus hung on the cross…
Matthew 27:43
‘He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”
Psalm 22:12-13
‘Many bulls encompass me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle me; they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion. ‘
“They encircled me.” The Hebrew translation is actually “crowned.”
This is a strong visual image of the crown of thorns.
“like a ravening and roaring lion”…
The symbol that the romans soldiers would wear on their chest plates was a lion!
Remarkably, Psalm 22 vividly foretells the events of Jesus’ crucifixion, including the piercing of His hands and feet, the casting of lots for His garments, and the mocking by onlookers. Centuries before crucifixion was even practiced, God’s plan was unfolding.
John 19:30 – “It is finished”
With His final breath, Jesus declared victory. The Greek word “tetelestai” encapsulates the profound truth that our debt of sin has been paid in full. Jesus accomplished the eternal purpose of the cross, offering salvation to all who believe.
John 20:24-25 – Believing Without Seeing
Thomas, skeptical until he saw the scars on Jesus’ hands, represents many who struggle to believe without tangible proof. Yet, blessed are those who believe without seeing, trusting in the power of Christ’s resurrection.
What Will You Do?
Pilate’s question echoes through the ages: What will you do with Jesus? Will you acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior, embracing His sacrifice and the hope of eternal life? Friends, let us respond with hearts surrendered to the One who gave everything for us.