Crucified!
Scripture Reading — Luke 23:26-43
When they came to the place called the Skull, they cruci-fied him there . . .
"They crucified him"! These few words describe one of the most awesome events in history: the crucifixion of the Son of God. According to historians, crucifixion was one of the most brutal, degrading, and humiliating ways to be put to death. It was Rome's favorite method, intended for the worst criminals.
The sinless Son of God was crucified between two criminals. It's far beyond our human comprehension to understand how God the Father allowed his Son to be crucified, for death on a cross was cursed by God himself (Deuteronomy 21:23). But this was God's way of saying to each of us, "The curse you deserve is placed on my Son."
Jesus was crucified at "the place called the Skull," also known as Calvary (from Latin), or Golgotha (Aramaic), a place of many executions, to let us know that his cross stood in the midst of human suffering and misery. Through the cross of Christ, God himself entered into our broken lives in this world.
For those who wonder whether God cares about our suffering, here is God's answer. Look at the cross and reflect on the words "they crucified him there." Be assured that God cares more than we will ever know. He cared enough to let his Son be crucified, taking our place.
How will you respond to this love today?
Lord Jesus, your “love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.” Amen.
About the author — Arthur J. Schoonveld
Rev. Art Schoonveld is a retired minister in the Christian Reformed Church. Before retiring in 2001, he served churches in California, Illinois, and Michigan. Since his retirement he has worked part-time for the denomination and has served as an interim pastor. Art and his wife, Anita, have four children and nine grandchildren.
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