As I was reading scripture, describing Jesus' last moments on the cross, I felt so undeserving of His love. I was reminded of an experience I had about five years ago. It was around this same time of year, and we had just received the call that Todd's headstone had been, finally, placed at his grave. I was thrilled, and yet sad to know that all the loose ends were coming together, and he no longer "needed me" here on this earth. At least in the normal parenting kind of way. Anyway, Todd was buried in our church cemetery, so of course I went to see his headstone the next chance I had.
I stood looking over Todd's grave, grass was finally starting to grow, and his stone was perfectly in place. It was done. I cried, and cried some more, and even under my breath, screamed at God...It wasn't fair, this wasn't supposed to be the way things happened. Why did He take my ONLY son!?
I mean, really, how dare He allow something so horrible and painful to happen to my family? As I pulled myself together, and turned to walk away, I heard that gentle, calm voice saying...
"I KNOW your pain. I gave MY one and ONLY son too...as a sacrifice. For YOU!!"
Here I was about to celebrate Easter, not once showing gratitude for God's sacrifice for me. As we approach Easter again, this year, I am reminded that He knows my heartache, and understands my loss. The only difference is that His son paid the ultimate sacrifice, for me!! ...and you. I pray that you will truly understand the sacrifice that is celebrate this season.