And The Winner Is...

There is such irony in the concepts of independence and accomplishment. The wordly authorities tell us that as our age increases, so does our responsibility. We gain independence, and consquently, our self importance and self appointed authority increases. We are called to be decision makers and find a purpose. In some ways, this is very true. Yet I see the irony when I compare this to Christ. He calls us to grow deeper in Him. To die. To quit. Stop making decisions and allow Him to work through us. He wants us to downplay our significance. The only responsibility we have is the abide in Him and all that comes along with that. As Christ entered the climax of His ministry, the world handed him a Roman Cross and adorned Him with a crown of thorns. We pursue glorious victories as to boast our accomplishements. Yet the most glorious victory of all was obtained by a dismembered carcass marred beyond recognition. His eyes rolled back into His head as He drew His last breath as if to say, "I take this cup from you." Mosty of us stand over our defeated in triumph. But my God cries out, "forgive them, they know not what they do." The world shook and the most significant event in History ended as a spear pierced the helpless victim's side. There was no cries of victory, no celebration. Only tears. Only despair. Victory obtained through the destruction of an innocent man. We are called to model Christ, so why do we thirst for victories that will only burn away? Our petty gold will rust, and our trophies will gather dust, but Jesus' blood never fails us. Tears rolled down his cheeks as the crowd mocked Him. The unblemished lamb knew the ultimate gift would be birthed through His pain on the cross: Salvation. Death is the ultimate victory when we think about Christ.

-Jeff