once to bear the sins of many.
To those who eagerly wait for Him
He will appear a second time,
apart from sin, for salvation.
Jesus carried the cross of Calvary until He was no longer physically able to do so. Another carried the cross to Calvary for Him. But there, Jesus was nailed to the cross and bore the sins of the world. No one else was able to take His place as the Bearer of Sin. Jesus had to do it alone—totally and until the end. He bore the sins of many until the sacrifice was accepted and redemption was complete. Then Jesus cried, “It is finished!” (John 19:30). He has done it all for you; what will you do for Him?
Lord Jesus, since You died for me, I will live for You. My sacrifices are small compared to Your great sacrifice, but I will bear my sacrifice for You.
Jesus didn’t bear only part of your sin; He bore all of it. So you shouldn’t walk in guilt nor live tentatively. Be a bold Christian, because there is no sin charged against you. Jesus, the Bearer of Sin, bore your sin with the right concern for others, for He said of His executioners, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34). Then He took the time to welcome the repentant thief to Paradise (Luke 23:43). So be positive when you suffer for Him, and be concerned for others as you bear reproach for Him.
Lord Jesus, in appreciation for all You’ve done for me, I will live joyfully this day. I will not complain when things don’t go my way, nor will I gripe over irritations. Any suffering is a privilege, considering how much You suffered for me. Amen.
Endure suffering, because Jesus suffered for you.
Tomorrow...Jesus: The Salvation of God
