But God Loves- Lent 40, 2021

Jesus didn’t die a victim.  He says, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me– just as the Father knows me and I know the Father– and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.

The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life– only to take it up again.

No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” (John 10:14-18)

But God did more than let it happen.
He orchestrated its happening by His own authority so we would be witnesses.

You killed the author of life, but God raised Him from the dead.
We are witnesses of this. (Acts 3:15)

On Holy Saturday, far more than just a placeholder between death and resurrection, we are witnesses that the author of life itself—the Word incarnate—was dead to this earth.  Because of human sin.  Because of God’s great love for His Image bearers.  But God had something amazing planned…

Thank You Lord Jesus for being the Good Shepherd, for laying down Your life for us. As we ponder in silence on this Holy Saturday, fill our hearts with gratitude for what You have done. You are amazing Lord and we praise You.  We exalt You.  We bless Your holy Name. Amen.