what a savior! - mark 15:16-41

Listening to the cross... As we reflect upon the familiar story of Jesus' crucifixion, it is easy for the familiarity to become an obstacle that prevents us from seeing its profound significance. However, nothing is more important than continually grasping the meaning of this event.

We are saved through the cross alone... Jesus suffered through rejection, betrayal, mockery, beatings, being flogged, and crucified. However, this was only the beginning of what He would suffer, for He also endured being forsaken by the Father as the sin-bearer who took our sin, shame, guilt, and punishment upon Himself. After this sacrifice was complete, Jesus cried out His last breath and the curtain in the temple was torn in two. This signifies that the cross has made salvation open to all who would believe.

The cross proves that God loves us... "God shows His love for us in that while we are still sinners, Christ died for us", Romans 5:8. Christianity alone portrays God as an almighty king who suffers with His people and for His people.

*Questions for Reflection & Discussion:

1. How do you keep the message of the cross central in your life?

2. When you think about the cross, do you think primarily of Christ's physical sufferings or of His emotional suffering as the sin-bearer?

3. How does meditating upon God's love revealed in the cross change your life?