The Word on Wednesday...

"...he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

Easter is one of my favorite holidays. It brings the first signs of Spring, adorable outfits and a time of fun with your kids, family and friends. However, most importantly, it reminds us of God's unconditional love for us. It reminds us of the hope, peace, love and promises we have in Him. Easter is the reminder of how the Lord allowed His son to be mocked, beaten, crucified and left for dead on an old rugged cross. He made this incredible sacrifice because of His unimaginable love for sinful, wretched, undeserving sinners like you and me. Can you fathom giving up your only child for those who are not even born yet?! Can you imagine letting your only child be ridiculed, mangled, and killed for people who may or may not accept and appreciate your sacrifice or who may or may not love you in return?! I will admit that I cannot imagine it, but that's the beauty of it all- we are not expected to! He gave His one and only Son as a free gift to us. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16) There is a happy ending to this true story. After Jesus was killed and placed in a tomb that was sealed with a huge stone, he was raised from the dead. Once again, it was a free gift: "... He was raised from the dead to make us right with God." (Romans 4:25) His loved ones went to the tomb, only to find it empty. The angel said, "He is not here; for He has risen!" (Luke 24:6) Let's remember today and everyday His free gift to us: this incredible sacrifice of love and miracle of the Resurrection. Have you given Him praise, thanked Him and told Him how much you love Him, too?

Lord, I praise your name right now. I want to glorify you, honor you, and lift you up! I thank you so much for loving my imperfect, sinning, undeserving self so much that you gave the greatest sacrifice in the whole world just for me. Thank you for giving your Son so that I don't have to give mine, and so that I can have eternal life with you! Forgive me of all my failures and especially when I forget and am not appreciative of what you have done for me. I love you so much, Jesus. You are such an incredible, amazing, awesome God! Thank you... Amen.


My Easter Baby...