The Ultimate Abuse

Matthew 27:30: "They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again."

Many of us have reflected upon the crucifixion of Jesus Christ . . . the incredible display of agony, torture, and brutal betrayal against the Sovereign King of Kings. It is the most heinous act of evil ever committed! That God's own creation would rebel against His rightful Lordship and desire His execution is the epitome of debasement. We are so unworthy of God's favor and mercy; still, God willingly chose to offer Himself as the perfect atoning sacrifice for our sins. This is AMAZING GRACE at its finest!

One facet that I had not previously noticed is the above mentioned verse. I was aware of Jesus' abhorrent flogging, but I had not noticed that the soldiers beat Jesus in the head repeatedly with sticks. I cannot imaging the continual strikes across the skull of the Master. Again and again, they hit Him. And given their previous placement of a crown of thorns on His head, one can picture the thorns being driven into his skull. What tragedy! What restraint by the Sovereign Lord! What wonderful love demonstrated in order that we might hope of reclamation into eternal blessedness.

Never forget the sacrifice of the Savior for our sins. Never forget Jesus' painful death that has given us opportunity to be adopted into God's eternal family. Never forget what we truly deserve and what we in actuality have been given. If you really think about these things, you will become overwhelmed with God. This is where God wants you to be.