Join us to go through Jesus’ journey to the cross as we prepare for Easter this year! Our theme this year, “Redeemed”, reminds us of the truth that through the cross and His resurrection, we are delivered, restored, and made new. Once lost, we are now found – redeemed and chosen by His grace.
Isaiah 53:5 ESV
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.
Have you ever had your eyes on something, perhaps a goal that promises freedom and fulfillment? As you pursue it, each step forward seems more challenging than the last. Sometimes, instead of encouragement, you face mockery and scorn, and the journey becomes treacherous, filled with jeers from those who misunderstand your purpose. Yet, despite the difficulties, you stay focused on that prize, determined to overcome the obstacles in your path.
Today is Good Friday, so we remember Jesus’s suffering on the Cross. For the joy that lay before Him, Jesus endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2). He knows His divine mission to redeem humanity from sin. Each step He took was marked by love and purpose. While Jesus had every right and authority to defend Himself against the crucifixion, He chose to remain silent with great gentleness. Fully surrendering to God’s will, He faced slander, humiliation, and brutal torture. The suffering He endured was the consequence of our sins, which we rightfully deserve. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). Out of His immense love for us, Jesus bore this suffering so that we could be redeemed and have eternal life in Him.
As we reflect on Jesus’ profound sacrifice, we must acknowledge our own sins and their consequences, which separate us from God. Jesus endured suffering for our transgressions, urging us to recognize our shortcomings and seek true repentance—not merely feeling sorry, but a heartfelt turn away from wrongdoing and a desire to align with God’s will. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and will forgive and cleanse us, offering hope that no sin is too great to be forgiven (1 John 1:9). Through His wounds, we find healing—not just physical, but spiritual restoration and reconciliation with God (Isaiah 53:5).
Let’s remember that it is God’s kindness that leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4). May we open our hearts to His grace, allowing His love and forgiveness to transform us, guiding us to true joy and fulfillment in living out our redeemed lives.
Reflection and Application
- What fears or obstacles prevent you from fully repenting and seeking God’s forgiveness? How can you cultivate a lifestyle of ongoing repentance and humility before God?
- How can you demonstrate the forgiveness you receive from Jesus in your interactions with others? What are some practical ways to extend grace in your relationships?
Prayer Requests
HKU:
- Intimacy with Jesus and deeper experience of the Gospel.
- Personal witness and testimonies of God moving in our campus.
- Culture of discipleship to reach the next generation (Year 1 and 2s)
- 3 Salvations/Baptisms for the coming season!
- Evangelism to the lost on our campus.
- For our LG to reach the next generation, especially girls.
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