By Carey Helmink
The heels of Valentine’s Day and the beginning of the season of lent is a good time to think about love. If you have been married for any length of time, you know love is much more than a feeling. I have heard people say they would die for their children or their spouse. I would like to think I am that type of person, but honestly, I have not been put to that test. And in my heart of hearts, I’m not at all sure I know how to love like that. In fact, apart from the spirit of God in my life, I’m quite certain I don’t.
The commitment it takes to stay married for the long haul is considerable. But the commitment Jesus has for his bride is beyond imagination. His willingness to go to the cross to redeem us was the greatest act of love the world has ever seen. He is worthy of our love, adoration, gratitude and worship from now until he comes back to get us.
“Because God’s children are human beings – made of flesh and blood – the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.” Hebrews 2:14-15 (NLT)
“And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life—giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him.” Hebrews 10:19-22a (NLT)
How deep the Father’s love for us, How vast beyond all measure. That He should give His only son to make a wretch His treasure. How great the pain of searing loss, The Father turns his face away. As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.
Behold the Man upon a cross, My sin upon His shoulders. Ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers. It was my sin that held Him there Until it was accomplished. His dying breath has brought me life. I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything, No gifts, no power, no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ – His death and resurrection. Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer. But this I know with all my heart; His wounds have paid my ransom.
(song lyrics by Stuart Townsend)
I couldn’t run, couldn’t run from His presence. I couldn’t run, couldn’t run from His arms. Jesus, He loves me, He loves me, He is for me. Jesus, how can it be? He loves me. He is for me.
(song lyrics by Ben Glover, Chris Tomlin and Reuben Morgan)
“Now may the God of peace – who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood –may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing this is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 (NLT)
Amen and Amen.
Equip Her 