Yesterday, we sang one of my all time favorite songs during worship: "How Deep the Father's Love for Us". I'm always moved how the author of the lyrics beautifully captures the message of the gospel, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I can't help but shed a few tears of pure joy and shame as I belt out the words.

"How deep the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure? That He would give His only Son, to make a wretch His treasure." The problem with most of us today is that we don't think we've earned that title, "Wretch". We think we are "pretty good".

"Behold the man upon a cross, my sin upon his shoulders. Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice, call out among the scoffers." Not me? I would never mock Jesus. Oh wait, just now when I called that bad driver in front of me a name, when I thought indecently about that attractive woman, when I made fun of my co-worker struggling with a task.

"It was my sin that held Him there, until it was accomplished. His dying breath has brought me life, I know that it is finished". The gift of Jesus was not a historical event for me. IT IS THE EVENT FOR ME. It wasn't just something that happened a long time ago, but the very thing that brings me life, joy, strength and power in His name, motivation, and a future with God the Father in eternity because of Jesus! Amen!

"I will not boast in anything, no gifts, no power, no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection." All that I am and all that I will ever be is because of Jesus Christ. The Father's Love is deep beyond measure for each of us. No matter what we've done, His wounds have paid our ransom. Father please, please help me live out my life today reflecting your love.

Philip J.