The Upward Look
© Copyright 2011, Max D. Hutto,

“He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.”
   1 Peter 2:24 NASB ©

As the calendar nears Easter, I ponder the events of the “Holy Week” and wonder why God would send His Son to bear the torture and suffering of the cross? Peter gives a wonderful statement about the reason for the agony of the cross. The physical torment that Jesus went through has been documented in books and movies, yet, that was only part of the anguish He went through as He bore the punishment for our sins. He bore the wrath of God for our sins upon Himself. His death provides the supreme sacrifice so that we could be forgiven and cleansed of our sins. His resurrection provides the new and eternal life so that we can live a holy and righteous life.

Lord Jesus, I bow in awe of the torment of Calvary. It drives me to desire a life that brings honor and glory to You, reflecting Your great love, mercy, and grace.

* (footnotes & credits)

NASB ©
The Bible quotes marked NASB are from the New American Standard Bible,
© Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977,
by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA. (used with permission)

HCSB ©
The Bible quotes marked HCSB are from the Holman Christian Standard Bible,
© Copyright 2000 by Holman Bible Publishers (used with permission).

NIV ©
The Bible quotes marked NIV are from the New International Version,
© Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, by The International Bible Society. (used with permission)