Ephesians 1:7-8

The crucifixion of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection from the dead three days later are the most important events in all of history. They were planned before the world was and will be celebrated forever in heaven. His blood bought us our redemption. His death absorbed the wrath of God that we deserved. The justice of God was satisfied, the mercy of God was realized, and the grace of God was demonstrated. The glory of God shines brightest through the cross.

These wonderful truths should not just be facts we understand intellectually, but they should stir in our hearts wonder, amazement, praise, and thankfulness. They should ignite our emotions in an overflowing joy unspeakable and full of glory as we behold the Lamb of God, our Savior. He is our Lamb whose blood has made possible the forgiveness of all our sin according to the riches of His grace which He lavished upon us. The immensity of the price that purchased our forgiveness is expressed here, for the riches of His grace are immeasurable.

The astonishment of the psalmist in the light of this truth compelled him to exclaim, “As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His compassion toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us!” (Psalm 103:11-12)

This is the story that should never grow old, but should stir us every morning to live lives that demonstrate the infinite value of Jesus Christ—to live for His glory. Since His grace and love was lavished on an undeserving sinner such as I, then surely I should lavish grace and love on the undeserving around me, without resentment. We were all created to showcase His glory, so shine for Him today!

Tom Day