Day 211

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There's No Greater Love!

Scripture

July 29—Isaiah 52-57: The Suffering Servant

Observation

No greater act of selfless love can a servant render than by laying down his life. As the crowning act of servanthood, Messiah would suffer and die for the transgressions of many. He would be "beaten, bloodied, disfigured, despised, rejected, wounded, bruised and buried like a criminal" (52: 14-53:12) in order to pay the price of redemption for our past, present and future sins. His death would provide a blessing, not only for his Jewish kinsmen, but for the Gentile nations as well.

Application

Ironic, isn't it, that the "good news" of Jesus Christ includes the "bad news" of a death by crucifixion—a death described 700 years in advance by Isaiah's prophetic pen.

As you read again the familiar words of Isaiah 53, view the scene and its significance through the eyes of one writer: "The Gospel is not something to do but something done. It is not a demand but rather a supply. It is not something you can do but it's something that's done for you. And it happened at a certain point in time "on the brow of a hill shaped like a skull. It was done simply because of God's love for us. Had not Jesus said to his apostles that last memorable night with them in the Upper Room, 'Greater love hath no man than this, than a man lay down his life for his friends'? That is why a hideous cross has become the world's symbol of blessing."

The suffering Savior is more than a fact of history; he is the foundation of your faith. It is Good News for all to hear: there is a Sin Doctor who can heal and forgive and restore all who will come to him in believing faith.

Have you come? Do you long to right now? If so, then turn Isaiah 53 into your prayer of commitment: "He was wounded and bruised for my sins. He was beaten that I might have peace. Allow the suffering Savior to become your Savior today!

Prayer

Lord, we just want to jump for joy whenever we think of the goodness of your love and mercy which is all the time all because of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. You knew we couldn't obey the law and stop sinning so you provided a way for our sins to be redeemed and remember no more. We are forever thankful and graceful for our renewed grace you give us each day. We worship you O Lord—in Jesus name! Amen!

We Praise your Holy Name!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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