Yesterday was a particularly good Friday. In addition to it being in fact Good Friday, we got to go to a new play place and discover big plastic dinosaurs and soft pretzels (and the grown-ups had Starbucks - hooray!). Thanks once again to Naomi for the excellent photography.
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| Seth welcoming Grandma. Look how skinny he is. :( |
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| Grandma Jane and Marcie Jane |
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| Snack time! Notice Gracie sneaking my coffee. She was only supposed to have a sip, but I got distracted and she drank so much I was worried she wouldn't sleep that night. She did chatter a bit longer than normal in her bed. :} |
Last night when all were in bed and the house was blissfully quiet I got to have my own Good Friday time of Bible study, re-reading the story of Jesus' crucifixion. My favorite verse in the New Testament is Matthew 27:51a, starting in vs. 50: "And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up His spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple [blocking off the Most Holy Place] was torn in two, from top to bottom."
That verse always thrills me and practically gives me chills because it means that direct access to God is now possible through Jesus's death and resurrection. Anyone can come to the Creator of the Cosmos and lover of mankind through the Son. As hard as the trials and crucifixion are to read about, I love seeing how Jesus completely finished the work His Father had given Him to do. He, the only perfect man and God in flesh, drained to the dregs the cup of God's wrath against sin and took the punishment that I deserve. Therefore, instead of spending eternity separated from Him, paying the penalty for my own sin forever and ever, I can spend eternity with Him! This is what ultimately makes all my Fridays and every other day GOOD. I have been set free, and what's more, I have a Risen Savior sitting at God's right hand in Heaven interceding for me.
Since I'm writing this on Monday, I hope your Easter was blessed!
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| Poor Gracie, I couldn't get a good picture of her! But her dress was beautiful and she was beautiful in it. |
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| Marcie refused to wear the jacket to church (Seth wanted to wear it for her!), I finally got her to wear it long enough for me to snap a quick picture. |
Love and gratitude always,
Carrie
P.S. Bible references follow for those who are interested. Clicking on the links should take you to the verses or website.
Finished work: John 19:30
Diety of Jesus: John 1:1, John 8:58, John 20:28, Col. 2:9, Phil. 2:5-8, Heb. 1:8,
http://carm.org/bible-verses-show-jesus-divine
Cup of God's wrath against sin: Isaiah 51:17
Jesus paid the penalty for my sins: 1 Cor 15:3-4
Those who refuse Christ's sacrifice and pay for their own sins: Revelation 14:10
Jesus interceding for His people at God's right hand: http://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-interceding.html
I'm so glad you had that time to meditate on the crucifixion. I had to comment because that's my favorite verse from the Passion story, too! I am secretly hoping there's some kind of "instant replay" opportunity in heaven where I would be able to see that moment happen. Chills is right!
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