The Price of Pardon

"But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5). Rather sobering to ponder the fact that on the cross, Jesus was suffering for the sins of men. The language of Isaiah's prophecy is deliberately graphic. "pierced through...crushed...chastening...scourging" and then in verse 7 of Isaiah 53 we read that "He was oppressed and He was afflicted." The physical suffering and the spiritual separation from the Father were both excruciating. The Lord willingly submitted to these grave injustices so that we might be redeemed. It is good to stop and reflect on all that Christ did so that we could live eternally. Certainly it is humbling. Certainly it is encouraging. A couple of lines from some of my favorite Hymns came to mind in light of these texts. Verses that are humbling and encouraging because of the truth they convey. How great the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure; that He would send His only Son to make a wretch His treasure. Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.