As a follow up to previous blog entries, I asked my oldest daughter an important ‘Why’ question today that I think we all need to reflect upon.  I asked her “Why did Jesus die?”  Here is her response… To save the world (us) from our sins.  To die on the cross.  And to rise again.  So we can be in heaven with Him.    (From the mouth of a 5 year old!)  

 “Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say?  ‘Father, save me from this hour?’  No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour.  Father, glorify your name!”  These are Jesus’ words in John 12:27-28 when He was speaking of His death.  In C.J. Mahaney’s book, Living the Cross Centered Life, he states that Jesus was not “surprised by death’s approach.  He long ago determined to bear God’s judgement for sin as our substitute, and for months He ..discussed His death repeatedly with His disciples.”  Christ knew why He was sent, why He was here – His purpose.  In Mark 10:45, Jeus tells us that “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”  He knew that there was no other way for us to be reconciled with God.  Our debt had to be paid and only He, the sinless One, could pay it.  He lovingly laid down His life for us, taking on our sins and unrighteousness and thus the wrath and abandonment by His Father — that we rightly deserve. 

Mahaney states, “Behold Him…behold His suffering…and recognize His love.” 

Thank You.  Thank You, Lord Jesus.  May I never lose sight of You and Your sacrifice for me.