Matthew 27:41-44
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
As we near the end of the events surrounding Jesus’ execution, read Matthew 27:41-44 imagining the scene and noting your emotional response.
The people hurling insults at Jesus in this scene are not uninvolved spectators. They are the very ones who had Jesus arrested and then demanded his execution.
These men grew up steeped in the law of God, and they were specially chosen to study the Scriptures and interpret God’s laws. They were then tasked with teaching the Scriptures to the people of Israel. But God’s truth did not penetrate their hearts and they failed to see and understand God’s rescue plan.
Now they shake their fists in the face of God-in-the-flesh and mock him mercilessly.
In Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth he addresses a debate happening among the followers of Jesus by saying, “…we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church.” - 1 Corinthians 8:1.
Take a moment to honestly assess the value you place on knowledge and the value you place on love. Sit with this for a while and share your thoughts openly with Jesus.
Read Matthew 27:41-44 again with this in mind.
It is not only steely determination that keeps Jesus on the cross; foremost it is love that compels him to endure this shame and agony on behalf of rebellious humanity. Only God could love like this, and only God could step in and bear the consequences of our sin.
For the final moments of this time of meditation, get quiet and contemplate these familiar words of the Apostle Paul (a former enemy of Jesus) written to Jesus’ followers in and around Rome:
“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” – Romans 5:6-11
What is Jesus’ invitation to you today?
How will you respond?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
