Emmie and Fi were hanging out at my place recently. Fi is learning to crawl and Emmie is a caring big sister. If you’re a grandparent, it’s pretty wonderful to watch your grandchildren learn and grow right before your eyes!
Emmie asked to watch TV, so we turned on Elm City Kids via Youtube. She and I listened to the meaning of communion, and the little blue character asked, “Why would Jesus want to remember the worst moment of His life for all eternity? This is a sad story and I don’t understand why Jesus would want to remember such a sad day. Jesus dying for us, giving up His body and His blood for us, that’s not a memory I like thinking about. Why didn’t Jesus tell them to remember the happy times?” Elm City Kids Sunday March 22, 2020.
What a good question. Think back to the worst moments of your life. Would you want to memorialize them?
What’s astounding is because Jesus took the role of scapegoat on the cross, His worst experience changed the course of mankind forever. His death on the cross set all who trust in Him free. Free indeed! Because His story is one of bringing beauty out of ashes, light out of darkness, and victory out of defeat; those who follow Him can expect the same results. Especially from the darkest moments of their lives. Incredible!
Jesus, if I really focus on what You went through, it’s a horrific story or injustice and scandal. You were accused of being satanic, a drunkard, a glutton and an adulterer. You are none of those accusations. You are the Son of the God most High! Religious people wanted you dead for doing good wherever You went and doing it in a way they couldn’t understand. Thank You for completing the tasks Your Father gave You. May we complete the tasks the Our Father gives us. In Jesus‘ Name. Amen.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for He has anointed Me to bring the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim the captives will e released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. (Isaiah 61:1-2 & Luke 4: 18-19) Jesus then said, “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!” Luke 4:22 NLT