We know about the physical suffering that Jesus endured through the cross event at the hands of the Pharisees, Sadducees and Romans. But have you thought about the suffering inflicted by his own followers? We celebrated Palm Sunday with a memory of all of Jesus’ followers waving branches and laying down cloaks in the path as Jesus passed. The shouts were “Hosana” for the King. Later that week, Peter told Jesus he would never forsake him, even if it meant death.
But as the week progressed and the closer Jesus got to the cross, fewer and fewer people stood beside him. Have you considered the emotional and mental suffering Jesus must have experienced? Jesus was left completely alone to walk that road by himself. But the wonder of the cross is that Jesus chose it willingly.
Jesus’ sacrifice demands something of us. It demands more than something – it demands everything – it demands that we die to ourselves and commit to live for Jesus every day.
Clay in the Hands 
Welcome!!!
Thanks for sharing these thoughts at the service last night. I needed to be reminded of the kind of sacrificial, extravagant love Jesus showed on the cross and the woman demonstrated when she poured perfume on his head.
Thanks for the encouragement. My prayer for myself and everyone I know is that this Easter we will all “get it.” We will really understand in a new way just what Jesus did for us.
I appreciate you!