I have read the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John over and over and each time I find myself more in love with Jesus. I am deeply convinced of His love for me and all mankind.
In the events leading up to the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, the following verses stand out.
In John 18:4-6 TPT: “Jesus, knowing full well what was about to happen, went out to the garden entrance to meet them. Stepping forward, he asked, “Who are you looking for?”
“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. (Now Judas, the traitor, was among them.)
He replied, “I am he.” And the moment Jesus spoke the words, “I am he,” the mob fell backward to the ground!
The note found at the end of John 18:6 TPT says: “This was a stunning event as the great I Am spoke his name before those who sought to seize him. It is obvious in the text that they did not trip over each other in surprise, for every one of these strong men fell backward to the ground by the power of God. Jesus was in charge that night as the captain of the host of the Lord. They could not seize him unless he permitted them to do so. What a wonderful Savior who willingly submitted to the hands of cruel men to bring us the gift of salvation!
My heart fills with love as I think of Jesus’ strong love for His Father and for us. With all certainty He stepped forward and embraced the process of sacrifice He would make for us. He allowed these men to proceed with their plans only because they were God’s plans.
Matthew 27: 50,51(part) NKJV:
And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.
Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom…
Every time I read that the veil was torn in two after Jesus yielded up His spirit, I envision the gaping tear revealing the loving face of Daddy God. I then see my way being opened to God and nothing between us. I am restored to my heavenly Father in every way. I love what Jesus has done for me!
When I surrendered my life and sins to Jesus and received Him as my Lord and Savior, He purposefully took my hand and placed it into Daddy God’s hand. Jesus sacrificed all so that I (and all mankind) could be reconciled to God.
I love to think about the plan of God that Jesus fulfilled for me…for you. He meant all that His loving act would bring: salvation, healing, restoration, peace, joy immeasurable, relationship, unity and eternally, so much more. Jesus provided a living salvation for us.
Jesus loves us on purpose, for a purpose, to fulfill a great plan.
