What Message do you See?

The other day, I was thinking about those digital signs you see on the highway. You know, the ones that flash warnings, directions, or the occasional friendly reminder to drive safely. It got me wondering, what if our lives had those signs? What if our innermost thoughts, our hidden tendencies, were displayed for everyone to see? Imagine the hilarity (and horror) of a sign flashing "Impulse Buyer Alert!" at the grocery store, or "Social Media Distraction Zone" at the office.
We laugh, but let's be honest, many of those signs would be painfully accurate. But what if those signs went deeper? What if they revealed the things we try to hide, the shame we carry, the brokenness we desperately try to conceal?
That's what brings me to the cross. A sign was placed above a man on a cross, a sign that, at first glance, seemed to proclaim condemnation. But as we look closer, we find a message far more profound, a message that speaks to our own lives and the offer of forgiveness.
The Road to the Cross: A Story of Injustice and Divine Purpose
The journey to the cross was a brutal one. Jesus, innocent yet condemned, was subjected to a series of trials, beatings, and rejections. He was passed from one authority to another, each interaction revealing the depth of human cruelty. Pilate, despite finding no guilt in Jesus, ultimately yielded to the pressure of the crowd, who chose a murderer, Barabbas, over the innocent Savior.
Then came the crucifixion. Pilate, in a final act of defiance against the Jewish leaders, placed a sign above Jesus: "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews." Intended as a mockery, it inadvertently proclaimed Jesus's true identity, written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin, so everyone could understand.
Throughout this ordeal, God's sovereign hand is undeniable. The fulfillment of over 330 prophecies, a statistical impossibility, underscores Jesus's divine nature. From the casting of lots for his garments to the seamless tunic symbolizing his role as High Priest, every detail points to a divine plan. Even in the midst of suffering, Jesus demonstrated unwavering love and compassion.
The Seven Last Words: A Glimpse into God's Heart
Let's focus on the sign above the cross, and the words spoken by the man hanging beneath it.
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). Even in his agony, Jesus extends grace, teaching us to forgive even those who inflict pain.
"Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43). In a moment of profound hope, Jesus offers salvation to a repentant criminal, reminding us that forgiveness is available to all who turn to him.
"Woman, behold your son!" and "Behold your mother!" (John 19:26-27). Jesus, even in his suffering, cares for his mother, demonstrating unwavering love and compassion.
"My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46). In the darkness, Jesus experiences the weight of our sin, feeling the separation from his Father.
"I thirst!" (John 19:28). Fulfilling prophecy, Jesus endures the physical agony, refusing to numb the pain.
"It is finished!" (John 19:30). "Tetelestai" in Greek, meaning "It is finished, it stands finished, and it always will be finished!" The debt is paid, the plan is complete, and God's justice is satisfied.
"Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit’" (Luke 23:46). Jesus, in complete control, yields his spirit to his Father, demonstrating ultimate obedience.
What Message Do You See?
When we look at the cross, what do we see? Do we see the power of forgiveness? The hope of redemption? The depth of God's love?
This year, I can't shake the thought of the sign above Jesus. The sign that should have listed his crimes. But Jesus took our crimes, my crimes, upon himself. What would my sign say? "Selfish," "Prideful," "Judgmental?" Because of Jesus, my sign now reads "Forgiven."
Are we extending the forgiveness we have received? We cannot claim to love God while harboring hatred. Jesus calls us to reconciliation, to mend broken relationships, to be Christ-like in our forgiveness.
A Call to Reconciliation
Christians, let go of any bitterness or resentment. Come to the altar and make things right.
Those who have not accepted Jesus, know that "It is finished!" Your sins can be forgiven. Come and accept Jesus as your Savior today.
The sign above the cross is not a sign of condemnation, but a sign of hope. It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, God's love and forgiveness are available to us all. What message do you see when you look at the cross?