50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. Matt 27:50
This week we have marked what in the UK we call Remembrance Day. We typically do two things. The nearest Sunday to November 11 includes special church services and parades, with a two minutes silence held at 1100. Then on November 11, a second act of Remembrance is carried out with a national silence at 1100. Lest we forget the sacrifices made by those who gave their tomorrows so we could enjoy today.
As a military wife I am beyond grateful for the sacrifices made by so many individuals. Both the people who have forfeited their lives and those who have shaped their lives into ones of service. Jesus epitomized this and is held as the ultimate example of servant leadership at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, where British Army Officers are trained.
I recently had the privilege of leading a Bible study with some friends and we looked in part at Christ’s crucifixion. Have you ever had those moments of complete clarity where scales fall from your eyes? As I read Matthew 27’s account, one word leapt at me, did a little dance then settled back on the page. Gave.
The Power of Choice
Jesus gave up his spirit. Even in those final moments when he’d been brutalized and nailed to a cross, he still had the energy to make a choice. He could have said no, called down the angels I’m sure were poised with their swords, and cit the Romans to shreds. Or he could have willed himself whole and back on solid ground. He could have made the whole thing painless. But he didn’t.
He gave up his spirit. His choice. His action. But not his fault. This one tiny words slays my heart. Gave. There are many days I don’t give ten minutes to prayer or reading my Bible. But Jesus gave his spirit anyway, knowing I’d be faithless at times. As the Matt Maher song goes, “my sin runs deep, your grace is more.” Because Jesus knew no matter what, the need for forgiveness so we, so I, could be reconciled to God, would always outweigh everything else.
Your Turn
On this week of remembering the sacrifice of many, what can you give to The King? There’s never been a better week to give him your heart.
I’m a military wife and mom to two teenage girls (oh, Lord, have mercy). I write contemporary romance and have written a Bible study for military wives. I love to play guitar, read and ski, and I bleed green and gold (go Pack go). Swing by when I’ve been baking – the kettle is always on ready alert.
If you’d like a great book on writing I helped with, here’s the link...
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This is good, Debb, and so true. He could have backed out any time. Because the Father gave HIM free will as well as the rest of us.
Exactly. I love that this was an intentional action. It’s completely beautiful.
Beautifully said Debb
Thank you.