More than 2000 years ago, the ultimate sacrifice was made; out of a great love, for all humanity. Jesus Christ willingly died on the cross to pay, with his life, the price of our sin. As he hung there, on that cruel cross, taking His last breaths, he battled between his humanity and his Divinity. The account of the Gospels shows us His sadness and grief, but, also his love and compassion as He took on the sins of the world.  

Our All-Forgiving Lord showed mercy to those who mocked Him:                                                          

“And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)     

Even in His agony, Jesus granted Salvation to the lost:                                                                          

“And he said to him, Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43) 

Having to be separated from His Father caused Jesus to feel great loneliness:                                      

“Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34)                                                                                                                                                        

Yet, He still showed compassion for His Mother:                                                                                 

“When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. (John 19:26-27)                                                                              

We then see Jesus in full surrender of life and body as He prepares for the end of His ministry. An example that we, as Christians, are called to follow – A full surrender to God:                                     

“Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last.” (Luke 23:46)   

In one last act of humanity, Jesus asked for a drink. And although it was sour drink instead of water that was given to him, our Lord humbly accepted it:                                                                                             

“After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” (John 19:28)                                                                                                                                                      

Jesus once again took up His Divinity and in one last phrase completed His work here on earth. The debt for our sin had been ‘Paid in Full’ by His blood!                                                                                        

“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “IT IS FINISHED,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (John 19:30)

Suggested prayer: Dear God, you sent your Son to die for my sins in an act of unselfish love. I undeservingly accept your most Precious Gift. Thank you for becoming all man while yet remaining Almighty God to show your mercy on humanity. I can only love you more. In Jesus Name, Amen.   

Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B.