2025-12-28 THE DEEP, DEEP LOVE OF GOD FOR US
Discovering God's Deep Love: Seeing Through
Jesus' Eyes on the Cross
Ever Wonder How Deep God's Love Really Is?
Have you ever paused to consider the depth of God's love for you? It's a question that can transform your understanding of faith and life. This past Sunday, we explored this profound theme through the lens of Psalm 22, a passage that offers a unique glimpse into Jesus' experience on the cross. This sermon wasn't just a recounting of biblical events; it was an invitation to see the world through Jesus' eyes and to grasp the magnitude of His love for us.
The Cross Through Jesus' Eyes
Imagine standing at the foot of the cross, witnessing the events of that day. Psalm 22, written a thousand years before Jesus' crucifixion, prophetically captures His thoughts and feelings. It begins with the haunting words, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1). These words, echoed by Jesus on the cross, reveal the depth of His suffering and the weight of our sins that He bore.
As Jesus hung there, He saw the mocking crowd, the soldiers casting lots for His garments, and His mother standing by. Yet, in the midst of His agony, He uttered words of forgiveness and love. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). This is the heart of our Savior—compassionate, forgiving, and full of grace.
Why Solitude Matters in Spiritual Growth
In the solitude of the cross, Jesus demonstrated the power of being alone with God. It was in this solitude that He fulfilled His mission, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This solitude wasn't just physical; it was a profound spiritual experience. Jesus' cry of abandonment, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46), reflects the depth of His isolation as He took on the sins of the world.
For us, solitude can be a time to hear God's voice and grow spiritually. When was the last time you paused to listen for God in the quiet moments of your life? Solitude allows us to reflect on our relationship with God and to understand His love more deeply.
Practical Steps to Embrace God's Love
Understanding God's love isn't just about knowledge; it's about transformation. Here are a few steps to help you embrace this love:
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Reflect on Scripture: Spend time reading Psalm 22 and the Gospel accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. Let these passages speak to your heart.
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Seek Solitude: Find moments of quiet in your day to pray and listen for God's voice. Solitude can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth.
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Share the Good News: As you experience God's love, share it with others. Be an ambassador of His grace and forgiveness.
A Prayer for Deeper Understanding
Heavenly Father, thank You for the deep, deep love You have shown us through Jesus. Help us to see the world through His eyes and to understand the sacrifice He made for us. May we find moments of solitude to hear Your voice and grow in our faith. Guide us to share Your love with those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.
As you go about your week, remember that God's love is vast and unending. Let it transform your heart and inspire you to live out your faith with courage and compassion. If you're exploring faith or seeking to deepen your relationship with God, we invite you to join us at our next service or reach out for a conversation. You're not alone on this journey, and we're here to walk alongside you.