Luke 23 tells the
story of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. As a chapter it seems unimposing –
fifty-six verses containing a few stories. But this chapter speaks of the most
important event in the history of mankind. Since Adam and Eve man had been
locked in a constant struggle with sin. We were separated from God and from His
purpose for our lives. Jesus came to die on the cross to fix this. Jesus was an
innocent sacrifice (v 4, 14-15, 22) so He could atone for our sins in a way
that no other human could. Jesus offered redemption to mankind – even the
criminals crucified next to him (v 43). He offered forgiveness to mankind –
even His very persecutors (v 34). Even before he actually dies or is resurrected,
we see Jesus enacting His plan of salvation for humanity.
Journaling and Prayer
1. Jesus’
death on the cross is the central event in our faith. Why did Jesus have to die
for us? What did His death do for mankind? Write down anything you can think of,
big or small. Ask God to help you understand this. If you are unsure of the
answer, commit to seeking it out in Scripture and by asking godly people you
know.
2. Spend
some time in thanksgiving for the cross.
3. Pray
for the lost. Jesus desires that everyone might come to Him to have eternal
life. There are many people in our world who are hungry for something more in
their current life. Pray that they would recognize that the answer to their
hunger for more is Jesus. Pray that the Holy Spirit would soften many hearts to
the Gospel. Pray that God would prepare and call many Christians to share His
message with the lost. Spend some time interceding for people in your life who
don’t know Jesus.
