“When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. ‘Let’s not tear it,’ they said to one another. ‘Let’s decide by lot who will get it.’” (John 19:23-24a)
Imagine travelling to a place like Yosemite National Park. A place with beautiful waterfalls, lakes, trees and views that you can’t see anywhere else. Not to mention making the trek across the country and all the sights and experiences you can have on the way. All the people you can meet and the stories you can tell your friends and family when you get home.
Now imagine making this same trip, but all you do when you get there is go to the souvenir shop and pick up cheap souvenirs. No sights, no experiences, no fascinating stories to tell anyone about the beauty, splendor and experiences of the trip. Just a cheap piece of cloth that says “Someone went to California and all I got was this lousy T-shirt.”
When Jesus was crucified, the soldiers did just that. They followed Him through the streets of Jerusalem as Jesus was ridiculed and scorned. They beat Him and picked Him up and yelled at Him every time He fell down, failing to see the love that He had for them as He carried their sin. They missed the beauty and splendor of this moment as they nailed Jesus to the cross. Then, at the foot of the cross, they cast lots for a souvenir of the trip instead of taking in the full experience of what Christ wanted them to see.
However, the thief took in the full view: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42). The centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus left the trip with a story to tell: “Surely He was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27:54)
Don’t settle for souvenirs of the Savior this Easter. Take away the saving power of the resurrection and share that with others.
Remember Jesus and His gift of grace this Resurrection Day.
See you Sunday Church!! I Love You!!
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