“God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him … in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.”
Ephesians 2:6-7
My husband and I have been married 50 years. We’ve walked through sweet seasons as well as bitter ones. This earthly journey is full of welcomed blessings, but also uninvited burdens and heartache. Staying united through hardship is challenging. When we grasp the awe of Jesus’ suffering on the cross for our sakes, we are compelled to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).
The Lord’s beaten, dehydrated body moved Him to say, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28). His mockers dipped a sponge into wine vinegar and lifted it on a hyssop branch to His lips. Satan believed he was victorious as Christ drew in the bitter drink and then drew His last breath.
But the Psalm 69:21 prophecy about the Messiah and the coming redemption were fulfilled as the leaves of the medicinal, cleansing hyssop plant (see Psalm 51:7) brushed across Jesus’ face. The way was being made for the cleansing and healing of souls through the forgiveness of sin. The plan for restoration and relational peace between God and humankind was in motion.
The Lord’s beaten, dehydrated body moved Him to say, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28). His mockers dipped a sponge into wine vinegar and lifted it on a hyssop branch to His lips. Satan believed he was victorious as Christ drew in the bitter drink and then drew His last breath.
But the Psalm 69:21 prophecy about the Messiah and the coming redemption were fulfilled as the leaves of the medicinal, cleansing hyssop plant (see Psalm 51:7) brushed across Jesus’ face. The way was being made for the cleansing and healing of souls through the forgiveness of sin. The plan for restoration and relational peace between God and humankind was in motion.
Scripture Focus
John 19:28-30
Insight
Because Christ endured bitterness for our sake,we trust Him through the hard seasons. He holds us by the hand and leads us to sweeter days.
Bible In A Year
- Isaiah 31-32
- Psalm 86
- Acts 8