O’ The Wondrous Cross
“May it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” (Galatians 6:14)
Let’s take a memory lane adventure to southern England longs ago.
Sitting quietly, we find a young Isaac Watts writing poetry.
Watts eventually turned his attention to composing hymns.
There was a period of two years when he wrote a new hymn every week.
Later, at the age of 33… whilst contemplating an upcoming communion service, Watts was inspired by Paul’s letter to the Galatians and began thinking about the cross in a different way.
He recognized that the cross changes everything… Indeed, it does.
Reflecting on these truths, Watts wrote, “When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died.”
At that time, “survey” primarily meant to consider or contemplate, like a surveyor to measure some ground.
It meant examining closely, in great detail.
As he examined everything about the cross, he concluded… “My richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.”
Humbled, Watts prayed… “Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my God! All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood.”
He realized that nothing compares with Jesus… “Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were a present far too small: love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.”
Today… this Saturday before Easter Sunday… Let’s press pause amidst the business of the day and conduct our own survey.
Let’s be still and quietly and reverently reflect upon how the cross shows the immensity of God’s loves for you and for me.
In this still moment… raise your hands to heaven and allow Him to fill your heart with His love.
Now…
Re-commit your life to serving Jesus… remembering all He gave for you… Yes… His life for you.
Heavenly Father… forgive us for boasting in anything except the cross of Jesus.
We humble ourselves before You.
Thank You for Your amazing love.
In Jesus’ most precious Name.
Amen.
Draw Close, He is Near