From Good Friday to Resurrection Day, my emotions run the gamut.  On Friday, it’s all about Jesus’ death on the cross.  When I read anew what He went through—from His arrest to the spitting in His face and the beatings to the brutal crucifixion—I think of my own sin and shame.  It was supposed to be me.  That was the penalty I deserved.  But Jesus, who knew no sin, took my place.

On Friday, I’m grieved.  And it causes me to bow afresh in my heart and thank the living God for loving us so much that “He gave His own begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NASB).

Then Sunday comes, and with it a different set of emotions.  When I rise at dawn, I think of Mary Magdalene who “came early to the tomb, while it was still dark” (John 20:1), and found that the tomb was empty.  He had risen, just as He said (Matthew 28:6).

On Sunday, it’s all about rejoicing.  Death could not hold Him!  This was the Word who was in the beginning with God, who was God (John 1:1).  This was the One for whom countless angels would cry, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing” (Revelation 5:12).  This was Jesus, by whom “all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created by Him and for Him” (Colossians 1:16).

On Sunday, I’m overwhelmed by the sacrifice and the victory.  I’m overwhelmed by the love.  I’m overwhelmed by the power and sovereignty of God.  On Sunday, my own love and commitment to Jesus are strengthened.  With all that He did for me, how can I not live totally for Him?

Lord Jesus, You are worthy of all praise and honor and glory.  Thank You for Your sacrifice.  Thank You for paying the price of my own sin.  Thank You for saving me.  Thank You that because You live, I can live eternally with You.  Help me to live each and every day on earth for Your glory.