Recently, I’ve become kind of hyper-aware of what Christ went through for our salvation. I’ve been thinking about how easy it is to sing about the cross, wear it as jewelry, and see use it as a decorative piece in our homes. But if we aren't careful, the most brutal act of love in human history can start to feel… normal. But the crucifixion was anything but normal. Scripture reminds us that Christ "loved us and gave himself up for us" (Ephesians 5:2), and that "while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Out of a desire to reconcile us to God, Jesus willingly endured betrayal, rejection, mockery, beatings, and the agony of the cross (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). He did that for you.
When we lose sight of what Jesus endured for us, it becomes much easier to treat sin casually. Wrong choices start to look like "just one little compromise" instead of the very things Jesus went to the cross to rescue us from. Hebrews 12:3 urges us to "consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted." In other words: remember Jesus. Remember what He endured. Remember why He did it.
So, parents and students, take some time this week to focus on the cross—not just what Jesus saved you from, but how deeply He loves you. Before you send that text, join that conversation, click that link, or make a choice you know doesn't honor Christ, stop and remember: "The Son of God... loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). Ask yourself, Does this choice reflect the love of the One who gave everything for me? Remembering His sacrifice doesn't make obedience a burden; it turns obedience into a natural response to incredible love. As Jesus said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15).
Let’s keep the reality of the cross right in front of us. Let’s remember the price of our salvation, the depth of Christ’s love, and the privilege of living for Him. Rather than relying on our own willpower to “make better choices”, let’s keep the cross in front of us and remember what Jesus did for us to free us from the bondage of sin.
Blessings,
Joe Newton | Pastor of High School | Hessel Church | joe@hessel.org