Why would Paul use as graphic an image as the cross of Christ to describe His new found conversion and life as a Christian?
I understand that he’s trying to give us an image of his spiritual awakening and the new life He’s experienced in and through Jesus transformative work. And he is trying to infuse hope into the hearts of believers. But the cross? It’s so gruesome and graphic! It’s hard to look at, if you ponder its true Roman nature. Have you seen the Passion of Christ?
And, I thought Jesus went to the cross, and cried “it is finished”, as He paid the price, so I that I would not have to suffer the hellish consequence.
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” -Galatians 2:20 NIV
When I come to the end of myself, I meet the vast and endless beginning of God. When I join Jesus in His crucifixion, I embrace the ending of myself, my earthly pursuits and self reliance, and my lost hopeless self. And in that moment, I meet my all loving grace-filled, life giving Father, who awaits my coming home. He stands on the front porch like the Prodigal Father longing and awaiting for my return. He wants me back home where I belong.
When I arrive, He doesn’t look at me in chastisement for my failed behavior and broken state. No! He invites me in, and kills the fattened calf to celebrate my coming home.
At 16 years of age, I gladly joined Jesus in His crucifixion because Hechelped me see that true life is on the other side of the cross, beyond the veil.
When you come to end of yourself, you will meet the beginning of your vast all loving grace-filled God. And that moment, He will run to you as you’re returning.
Have you said yes to the Father? Are you saying yes to Him each day by faith with “Christ living in you?”
