Thankfulness
Thankfulness
(V1A29)
The cross of Jesus Christ is the central event of Christian theology, an emblem of suffering and sacrifice but also a profound source of hope and redemption. As Christians around the world reflect on the meaning of the cross, thankfulness emerges as a fundamental response to the grace and love demonstrated through Christ’s atonement. Below are six specific things to be thankful for because of the cross:
Thankfulness for Forgiveness of Sins:
The most profound aspect of the cross is the forgiveness it offers. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, the barrier of sin that separates humanity from God is removed. This forgiveness is comprehensive, covering past, present, and future sins, allowing believers to approach God with confidence and without the burden of guilt (Ephesians 1:7).
Thankfulness for Reconciliation with God:
The cross reconciles humanity to God. This reconciliation transforms our relationship with God from one of enmity and separation to one of love and unity. It invites us into a deep, personal relationship with God as our Father, erasing the alienation caused by sin (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
Thankfulness for Victory Over Death:
The cross is not the end of the story; it leads to the resurrection. Jesus’ resurrection signifies victory over death, providing believers with the hope of eternal life. This victory gives us a living hope that death is not the final word and that eternal life awaits those who trust in Him (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
Thankfulness for Empowerment by the Holy Spirit:
Because of the cross, believers receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers them for godly living and service. The Holy Spirit, given to guide, teach, and strengthen, is a direct result of Christ’s redemptive work on the cross. This empowerment helps believers live in a way that honors God and reflects Christ’s love to others (Acts 1:8).
Thankfulness Healing and Wholeness:
The cross symbolizes healing—spiritual, emotional, and, often, physical. Isaiah 53:5 reminds us that “by his wounds we are healed.” This healing is comprehensive, addressing the deepest wounds of sin and offering restoration and peace with God.
Thankfulness for Community and Unity:
The cross creates a new community, breaking down barriers of race, class, gender, and nationality. It unites people who were once disparate, forging a new family of faith—the church. This unity is a testament to the power of the cross to transcend cultural and personal differences, calling all believers into a singular body with Christ as the head (Galatians 3:28).
Conclusion:
Each of these points reflects a deep wellspring of gratitude. The cross, a stark symbol of suffering, paradoxically embodies the greatest hope and the deepest well of thankfulness. In remembering the cross, believers are called not only to a personal reflection but to a communal celebration of the grace that has been poured out through Jesus Christ. This grace redefines lives, offering renewal and profound reasons for thankfulness each day.
The following links lead to other devotional pages published under the theme of the Wisdom from The Cross
Forgiveness https://21stcenturyrenewalministries.com/forgiveness/
Humility https://21stcenturyrenewalministries.com/1041-2/
Redemption https://21stcenturyrenewalministries.com/redemption/
Hope https://21stcenturyrenewalministries.com/hope/
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