There are years when the power of the cross can seem a little dim to our eyes. Moments when we know that the Easter story is true, but it seems to matter less. We rarely articulate such words, as Christians we know that Jesus’ death and resurrection is the centre point of our faith, but in our hearts the reality of his work on the cross can feel rather more muted than it once did. Sometimes such experiences are fuelled by over-familiarity with the narrative and under-familiarity with its implications for our lives. Sometimes the beauty of the cross gets buried under busyness, pain – or the many distractions of life.
If you are anything like me, the awareness that your heart is growing a little cold raises concerns. But the acknowledgement that we are not in the best place does not necessarily lead to instant action. “At the weekend” … “when the visitors are gone” … “once the emails are cleared” … “when the services are done”. It’s easy to put off taking action. Put off what we so often need: a slow, personal gaze at the cross that moves our heart afresh.
So, why not take a moment now? Come and see renewed beauty in Jesus today. You’ve already read a quarter of the blog post – press on and see more of Christ’s glory…
After outlining the once for all nature of Christ’ work on the cross, it says in Hebrews:
…let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds
(Heb 10:22-24)
And within those three short verses, we see a multiplicity of reasons to nudge our heart to sing. As we gaze at the crucifixion we find:
- Intimacy: at the cross, we see God as the one who moves towards us – the God who breaks the barriers between us and him – the God who welcomes us to “draw near” (v22) into his presence through the work of his Son. He has not left you. He has not abandoned you. He is close. And he loves to hear your voice.
- Assurance: at the cross, we see God as the one who offers “full assurance” (v22) – a relationship based on Jesus’ work not ours and, as such, one that cannot be rocked by the many trials of life. He has you. You are his. You are safe.
- Forgiveness: at the cross, we see God as the one who “cleanses” (v23) those whose hearts go astray. For those in Christ, there is no season of life too wayward to fall outside of his redemptive care. His grace does not run out. He has washed you. He did not leave a stain. You are clean.
- Hope: at the cross, we see God as the one who brings new life – new hope (v23) for this life and the next. Whatever is being faced, however deep the pain or intractable the injustice, there is One who leads us forward in his wisdom to a place that is unendingly good. You are not lost. You have hope.
- Faithfulness: at the cross, we see the God who keeps his promises (v23). He is a covenant God – one who chooses, commits and remains steadfast to his word. He is not going to change his mind about you. If you are his, he will lead you forward. He will hold you fast.
- Community: at the cross, we are made into a community. Our church is not a random collection of humans – some of whom bring us joy and some who don’t – we are brought together by Jesus to love one another well. Your brothers and sisters in Christ are there to encourage you – and you are there to encourage them – as you “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (v24). You have people with whom to do life.
That list is only just the start. We could add in how much we are loved – the example of sacrifice – the beauty of service – and so much more.
You could meditate on one facet of Jesus’ incredible work for a little while. You could spread doing so over a series of days if you like. If you are particularly tired or bowed down, such meditations may feel hard. Some of the truths might still feel tricky to grasp. But as you turn to the one who adores you – turn to the one who died and conquered death for you – as you talk to the one who knows you, leads you, guides you, sustains you and protects you this Easter time – may you find hope that lifts your eyes and lightens your heart.
