The Crusader Newspaper Group

A Moment to Super Size Your Thinking

By Effie Rolfe, Chicago Crusader

The Love of Christ. “For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”(John 3:16) Because of the cross, I can say with confidence ‘Jesus loves me, this I know for the bible tells me so…’ These are simple yet amazing lyrics that are forever true. As the Easter holiday is upon us, Christians have this blessed assurance that Jesus’ life, death and resurrection was all because of the love our Heavenly Father has for you and me.

This past Sunday, I watched “The Passion Live” a contemporary popular biblical musical to illustrate the story of Jesus Christ’s last days on earth including the Last Supper, the betrayal by Judas, the crucifixion and His resurrection. The love of Christ was revealed even more while I watched this show. Although, “The Passion Live” was not the best production that I have seen, it clearly illustrated the real inclusion of God’s love. The show’s cast featured various ethnicities, creeds and color that depict the true love of Jesus Christ. It is imperative that we be mindful that God so loved the world…(John 3:16). Even I am often reminded the world consists of more than my neighborhood, city, family, church or country.  God loves everyone. His grace is extended to the thief on the cross or the back of a police truck. Luke 23:39-43 is love in action. As Jesus is in the midst of experiencing unimaginable pain, sorrow, humiliation by the worst death ever—crucifixion on the cross. The bible says he was beaten beyond recognition, “But many were amazed when they saw him. His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man.” (Isaiah 52:14). The cute picture we have seen of Jesus on the cross is not even close to the truth.

Easter is about Jesus extending grace and salvation to known criminals that should receive the death penalty. One of the criminals who was hanged there was hurling abuse at Him, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” But the other answered, and rebuking him said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he was saying, “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!” And He said to him, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:39-43) At any cost, God wants your heart.

Reports indicate that 17.3 billion dollars will be spent on candies and apparel this Easter Sunday. I would like to suggest that as the holiday gets underway—let’s remember God’s love is more than the Easter bunny, a new outfit or loads of candy. Yes, let the children have fun with Easter egg hunts, candy and cute outfits but also, please remind them of the real reason for this day that commemorates the sacrificial love and benefits of His love that will forever be remembered. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Again, I pray that you have a wonderful time with your family this Easter holiday. However, during your worship—perhaps you and the family can also reflect, testify and receive of Gods’ love. We should be forever grateful in knowing that if we can simply confess our sins and ask Jesus into your heart. “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved (Romans 10:9).”

I love the song “Jesus Saves” by gospel recording artist, Tasha Cobbs especially when she sings, ‘He can save you from that too…’ It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’ve done—Jesus saves. God has enough love to give All. “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” (2 Cor 5:21 NIV)

Will you celebrate the love of Christ this Easter…?

© Effie Rolfe is an Author of “Supersize Your Thinking,” Media Personality and Motivational Speaker. You can contact her on twitter.com/effiedrolfe Listen to her show daily on urbanpraiseradio.org (2015 Stellar Award Winner for Best Internet Radio Station)

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