Dear Reader,
I want you to know, God loves you so.
As we near the end of Holy Week, I hope that we will continue to seek answers for our human existence because I believe it will always lead us to Jesus (Yeshua).
Who on earth, would give his life for his family, friends, and foes? Who? Probably not us.
We try to love others, and we say we do, but it is rare that we witness a person responding to their enemies with kindness. We find it hard to even forgive.
In fact, on such occasions when a person has forgiven the murderer of their son or daughter, sister or brother, many will call that person foolish. Yet God tells us to forgive so we can be forgiven and I do not recall seeing any exceptions. (Matthew 6:15)
“Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided his clothes and cast lots.”
Luke 23:34
We narrowly associate love with tolerance, in err. Love is so much greater than feelings. Love is humility not pride, love is truth not facts, love is blessings and not curses. (1 Corinthians 13)
Love is giving up material things so that your enemy has an opportunity to receive everlasting life. Love is, was, and will always be exemplified in the person of Jesus, and we do well to follow his example while we tarry on this earth.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.
John 3:16a
Jesus valued us even before we could ever value ourselves. He submitted himself to an incomprehensible death and a violent mob of zealots and godless leaders who feared Jesus’ majesty.
God already knew the human condition and desire for power and approval. Therefore He could providentially depend on mankind to crucify the King.
But he was pierced because of our rebellion, crushed because of our iniquities; punishment for our peace was on him, and we are healed by his wounds.
Isaiah 53:5
What the mob and those in power did not know was that in three days, Jesus would rise from that grave with all power in His hands. And if we only believe we will be raised to life with Him.
You have already heard my story of how God raised me from my hospital beds, healed my body, cleared my skin, and gave me clarity of mind again. I know you have a story too. Even if it has not been written.
So the temporary humiliation Jesus endured was for our permanent reconciliation with our Father God. He gave us a way back to the blessed life originally planned when man was created. His name is Jesus.
When we believe on the name of Jesus, we can love and not fear our enemies, we can have peace and not anxiety in a troublesome world, and we can have a hope that will never pass away because we know Jesus (Yeshua, the Messiah) abides with us and is coming, again!
Yes, He is coming for a church (people who believe Jesus is the son of God) who looks and loves like He did. A church that is holy and righteous. And I want us all to be ready, just as God does.
“So that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16b
Believe me, this day is difficult and the tears flow as I read about the beatings, the spitting, the mockery and pure hatred people had for my Lord. But I realize that without a crucifixion there would be no Resurrection Sunday (Easter). For that reason, I can call it Good Friday.
And because of Jesus’ sacrifice, all of my other days are forever changed.
I hope you already have a relationship with God as your Father and Jesus, His Son. But if you do not, I hope you will take the time to ask Him into your heart today. Then I want you to find a teaching church to attend this weekend where you can begin to learn more about the love of God—the love He gave for you and me.
The Lord is righteous in all His ways and loving toward all He has made.
Psalm 145:17
Happy Holy Week, Good Friday, and Resurrection Sunday to you and yours.
Love,
Leah
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