The power of the cross

This morning, my morning devotional reading from In Touch Ministries, (Dr. Charles Stanley), was wonderful. I thought about re-writing it, but decided it was better left exactly as it is, I hope it blesses you as much as it did me!
The scene of the cross is a paradox. It demonstrates the power of God in what appears to be the weakest moment in His Son’s life. With hands and feet nailed to rough wood, Jesus looked totally helpless. Adding to that impression was the fact that He remained there while the crowd jeered, “If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross” (Matt. 27:40).
Strength is not always revealed in a dramatic display; at times, it’s demonstrated in determined endurance. What power held Jesus on that cross, when with one spoken word, He could have been free? Divine love kept Him there. With mankind’s eternal destiny at stake, Christ hung on the cross until our salvation was attained.
But the power of the cross didn’t end when Jesus finally finished His suffering, gave up His spirit, and died. His death thrust open the door of salvation to all people, and those who walk through it by faith are forgiven for every sin and insured a place in heaven.
Yet even after salvation, the power of the cross continues in believers’ lives. Millions of people have been transformed as a result of the Savior’s victory over sin and death. He sets us free from sinful habits and addictions, empowering us to live victoriously in His righteousness.
Have you let the cross do its work in your life? The Lord does not force its benefits on anyone. Rather, He offers them freely to all who will believe in Him and walk in His ways. With each step of faith that we take, the mighty work of God in us increases.

I love the line, “”Divine Love kept Him there…..”
Thank you Lord for staying on the cross and completing my salvation.
Blessings,

the pilgrim

* Photo Note: This image is actually a color slide shot at Crescent Lake in Olympic National Park with a Nikon F100 film camera, 80-200 lens and Velvia film!