12/09/2024
The prophet Isaiah says this about the Messiah: “Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:4–5). Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us (Galatians 3:13). He was made a sin-offering, and He died in our place, on our account, that He might bring us near to God. It was this, doubtless, that intensified His sufferings and part of why Jesus said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” It was the manifestation of God’s hatred of sin, in some unexplained way, that Jesus experienced in that terrible hour. The suffering He endured was due to us, and it is that suffering by which we can be saved from eternal death.
In those awful moments, as evil men were allowed to do whatever they wanted to Jesus, our Lord expressed His feelings of abandonment. God placed the sins of the world on His Son, and Jesus for a time felt the desolation of being unconscious of His Father’s presence. It was at this time that “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
There is another possible reason for Jesus to cry out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” It could be that Jesus’ intent in quoting Psalm 22:1 was to point His hearers to that psalm. When they read Psalm 22, they would no doubt see the many fulfilled prophecies included in that song of David. Even while experiencing the agony of the cross, Jesus was teaching the crowds and proving yet again that He was the Messiah who fulfilled the Scriptures.
Transition Centers of HopeHeather Beatty
Highlights
Every moment we experience in life offers us a thrilling opportunity to make a choice! When we cultivate a heart full of gratitude 💜, we set off a vibrant wave of tranquility that flows harmoniously through our very essence. Embrace the incredible power that gratitude holds, and allow yourself to bask in the deep joy it can bring into your life!
Our feelings are shaped by our unique perspectives; therefore, if you're grappling with negative emotions, consider shifting your viewpoint and reflecting on the situation anew. It's important to recognize that feelings are not always grounded in objective reality. Sometimes, what we perceive as burdens can actually be blessings that others yearn for with all their hearts. Open your eyes to the abundance around you and discover the beauty in your own journey.
