As we reflect on the events that unfolded over this eight-day period some 2,000 years ago, where Jesus makes His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, then five days later dies on a cross … and “three days later” becomes our glorious, risen Savior … I urge you to take a few moments to slowly read and ponder the lyrics of this praise song, How Deep the Father’s Love For Us, written in 1995 by noted English songwriter, Stuart Townend:
How deep the Father’s love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasureHow great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One,
Bring many sons to gloryBehold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffersIt was my sin that left Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finishedI will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrectionWhy should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom
How could it be said any better? Thank you, Stuart Townend.
God proves His own love for us . . . in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! – Words of the Apostle Paul as recorded in Romans 5:8.
Prayer . . .
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me;
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
These words and the melody for them were written by Daniel Iverson after he heard a sermon on the Holy Spirit during an evangelism crusade by the George Stephans Evangelistic Team in Orlando, Florida, in 1926.
