...looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV)
Lord Jesus, on this Good Friday my eyes look to You, as the NIV puts it, they are “fixed” on You. Your suffering example stands before me as the quintessential show of obedience, faith, and love. Despite the temptations that loomed on this side of the cross, both internal when You were at Gethsemane, and while You hung there dying, You stayed obedient to the Father and His plan, even praying for those who tortured You and were killing You. This was not only the ultimate sign of Your faith in the Father, but also Your love for Him and us. I will never on this side of eternity be able to fully understand it. However, oh how I adore You because of it! Thank You for Your saving grace! Thank You for You endless love!
Today I ask that as I meditate throughout this day on the price that was paid on my behalf, that I might continue to experience the power of Your dwelling in my heart. Keep me rooted and firmly established in Your love, enabling me to fully comprehend what is the length and width, height and depth of the Father’s love, knowing Your love that surpasses all understanding (Ephesians 3:17-18). Fill me with Your fullness. As I take up my cross and follow You (Matthew 16:24), show me the areas in my life, the passions and desires that I carry that do not please You, that need to be hung on that cross (Galatians 5:24). I decrease that You might increase in me and through me. I die to myself that I might to You! Thank You for Your amazing grace and love! Amen!