On my days off, I love to do devotionals for an extended period of time. However, I often find myself reading the Bible as if it was a textbook, rather than fully immersing myself into it's human attributes and emotions. Today was not one of those "cram for a pop quiz" reading sessions.
I started reading from the book of Mark this morning, but felt compelled to turn to Luke instead. Boy Oh Boy, does the Holy Spirit know how to intercede!
Starting point - Luke 22:7. Ending point - Luke 23:56.
I get choked up when I think of the crucifixion, but it usually happens when I have other external factors prompting me. Today, this did not occur... today, I wept. There was no music… no slide shows… no skits... no video clips... no sermon. Just Jesus.
Jesus knows my sufferings because he suffered them as well.
My stomach churned as I read about how Jesus was betrayed. What desperation he felt when asking His Father if there was any other way that he could be spared.
The loneliness and abandonment he felt when his friends went with him to pray and while he was in anguish, they feel asleep on him.
What injustice he must have felt when Pilate, who tried to do the right thing, but let his political and professional endeavors override, allowed Barabbas to go free and not a single person stood up in his defense.
The entire world turned their backs while He saved them.
God, Continue to remind me how you know me. How you love me. How you saved me. Holy Spirit, speak on my behalf in gratitude and adoration when my words cannot adequately give You praise.
