But he was pierced for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities.The punishment that brought our peace was on him; and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 WEB
These words from the prophet Isaaiah predict the life and death of the promised Messiah. Centuries later, Jesus was born and fulfilled this prophecy. On the cross, a Roman soldier thrust a spear into his side, piercing his heart to ensure he was dead. Before he went to the cross, Jesus suffered severe beating. The Romans tortured and whipped our Savior with a flagrum that contained pieces of lead, jagged metal, and bone attached to its leather thongs. These crushing blows bruised his body and tore his flesh. Isaiah’s prophecy fits perfectly the punishment placed upon our Lord.
There is no greater example of love than the love shown by Jesus Christ. Like a true friend, when we sin and fall short of the glory of God, he suffers. But more than that, the Lord paid the penalty for our failings and is our salvation. Christ willingly substituted himself for the death we earned with our sin. Jesus went to the cross in our place to reconcile us with God, establishing peace between rebellious men and our Creator. He died in our place and by his wounds, we live.
He Died for Us
Jesus said to his disciples in John 15:13, ‘Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. WEB” With these words, Jesus prepared his disciples to understand the sacrifice he was making to ensure the forgiveness of sins and prepare a path to eternal life in heaven for all who believe in him. Our healing comes by his wounds.
On his way to fulfill the law and the prophets, Jesus said to his disciples in John 14:2-3, “In my Father’s house are many homes. If it weren’t so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also. WEB” The statements and circumstances surrounding the life, death, and resurrection of Christ make clear that Jesus was in fact the promised Savior.
Prayer: ‘Father God, thank you for paying the price for my sins with the sacrifice made by Jesus. Thank you for forgiving my transgressions by his wounds. Guide me with your word to live in obedience to your will. Increase my opportunities to share the truth of the gospel with the world. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: God Doesn’t Show Favoritism
