DAY 3: HE SUFFERED FOR OUR SINS
Isaiah 53, Luke 23:6-49
When we read about the agony and suffering of Jesus in Luke 23:6-49, we cannot help but wonder why God could not have saved us some other way. Why did God have to allow this suffering? Could He not have allowed Jesus to live till 93 and die a natural death?
Scripture doesn’t address those questions. Instead, the scriptures show us that the suffering of Christ was part of God’s predetermined plan (Acts 4:27), was prophesied 700 years before His death (Isaiah 53:1-10) and seen by God as fitting and appropriate (Heb. 2:10). In ways that we can't comprehend, Jesus’ suffering was planned by our infinitely wise, sovereign and loving God. Not only that, God was pleased with Jesus’ suffering (Isaiah 53:10).
Jesus was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities (Isaiah 53:5). His punishment brought us peace, and His wounds brought healing from the sickness of sin that leads to death. In God’s eyes, this was not only fitting — it was an expression of His deep love for us.
REFLECTION
- Expressions of love generally elicit a response. As you consider the depth of Jesus’ suffering as an expression of God’s love for you, how does your heart respond?
- What is one specific way you can live in response to that undeserved love today?
- As you respond to such love, not because you have to but out of gratitude, how would you encourage those around you to do the same?
PRAYER
Our gracious Father in heaven, we are overwhelmed by your love for us. You allowed your Son to suffer, be crucified, and die for us while we were sinners who did nothing to deserve your love. Help us to live lives filled with gratitude by following you closely and walking in your ways. We ask this in Jesus, our Lord’s name. Amen.
