The Best For Last
12-4-2014 | francesg
“He is not here; he has risen.” (Luke 24:6)
As a child, I always loved going to the holiday parades. My brother and I would sit on the edge of the sidewalk and watch with excitement as different groups of marchers passed by.
Military and school bands, dressed in a variety of different uniforms, kept in step as they serenaded the crowd. Local scout troops marched behind their leaders, and beautifully decorated floats added a special touch to the festivities. Fire engines and police cars passed by, polished to perfection. Vendors sold candy, ice cream, and soda—a refreshing treat in the hot sun.
The parade lasted three hours and ended with a spectacular float display. The committee always saved the best for last.
On Good Friday, people lined the streets as Jesus walked the road to Calvary, but unlike the happy crowd at a parade, many were mourning and lamenting. Others shouted obscenities.
Instead of a precision march, Jesus struggled beneath the weight of the cross. He had no fancy uniform, just tattered clothes covering His bloody, whip-stained body.
Instead of a victory celebration at the end, His executioners brutally nailed Jesus to the cross. Instead of a cool drink to quench His thirst, they offered Him vinegar. Instead of applauding, as parade watchers do, the crowd cast lots for His garments and sneered at Him saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself.” But little did they know that all of this was part of God’s plan.
Like my childhood parade that lasted three hours and ended with a special attraction, the crucifixion also lasted three hours. But the finale did not occur immediately. Three days later, the most spectacular event of all time took place—the resurrection.
Like the parade committee, God saved the best for last!
PRAYER: Thank you, Jesus, for dying on the cross that we might have eternal life. Amen
©Frances Gregory Pasch
Happy 4th of July to All of You….
Hope you all have a fun day with friends and family. I haven’t watched parades in a while, but they hold special memories in my life. The victory Jesus accomplished holds an even more special place in my heart. I look forward to spending eternal life with Him……Fran
Categories: christian devotional, chrsitian writing, Devotions, frances gregory pasch Tags: best for last, crucifixion, Good Friday, resurrection
