DEVOTION BY JULIE PLAGENS
Who doesn't love a good story? The kind of story where the hero comes swooping in at the last minute and rescues the people from the clutches of an evil ruler. It was the same for the disciples, who were also waiting for a hero. The prophets of old had foretold of a King that would one day save Israel from its oppressors.
That's why Jesus' followers, including his disciples, must have been devastated the day Jesus hung on a cross. Luke 23:49 says, “All those who knew Jesus personally…stood at a distance to watch.” They were in complete shock; it wasn’t supposed to end this way.
LUKE 23:49
However, what they saw that day as a loss was undoubtedly the biggest victory in history. Jesus was on a mission to save humanity, and his crucifixion was merely the starting point. By triumphing over sin and death, he saved every individual who would choose to believe in him–past, present, and future. It wasn't just about forgiveness of sins, but also about complete restoration of humanity's relationship with God.
Now that is an awesome storyline!
Who doesn't love a good story? The kind of story where the hero comes swooping in at the last minute and rescues the people from the clutches of an evil ruler. It was the same for the disciples, who were also waiting for a hero. The prophets of old had foretold of a King that would one day save Israel from its oppressors.
That's why Jesus' followers, including his disciples, must have been devastated the day Jesus hung on a cross. Luke 23:49 says, “All those who knew Jesus personally…stood at a distance to watch.” They were in complete shock; it wasn’t supposed to end this way.
LUKE 23:49
However, what they saw that day as a loss was undoubtedly the biggest victory in history. Jesus was on a mission to save humanity, and his crucifixion was merely the starting point. By triumphing over sin and death, he saved every individual who would choose to believe in him–past, present, and future. It wasn't just about forgiveness of sins, but also about complete restoration of humanity's relationship with God.
Now that is an awesome storyline!
Dear friends, what challenges are you facing today? Perhaps, like me, you've encountered some unexpected plot twists in your life. I challenge you to look beyond your circumstances and see what God sees. He has insight into your entire story, not just a single chapter. Whatever loss you feel is temporary.