Drop Eighty-Nine

Luke 13:1-5

“Now on the same occasion there were some present who reported to Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. And Jesus said to them, ‘Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered this fate? I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish’“ (NASB1995).

Today is Good Friday. A day of remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf to satisfy the requirements of our Holy God. As I ponder the gravity of this day, I reflect on the need to recognize, admit/confess, turn away from sin (the wrong things I have done, thought, and/or spoken), and seek reconciliation with those I have offended (there is always a ripple effect). Although Jesus only died once for all, we each are called to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). Romans 6:23 reminds us that the wages of sin is death. Jesus paid that debt so that we may receive God’s gift of eternal life.

Heavenly Father,

On this day of remembrance, we are each reminded of our own sins that created separation from You. If we have not yet done so, may we truly mourn the wrongs that we have done, turn from them and accept your gift of salvation through your one and only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. “There is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12, NASB1995). May we commit or recommit our lives in service to You this Easter weekend. Thank You for the opportunity to reconcile with You and with others in our lives. May your love and compassion shine through us from this day forward.

In the name of Jesus we pray,

AMEN