God loves to take the activities and destruction of the enemy and showcase His grace. He takes ashes and brings forth beauty, turns failure into victory, restores what was lost, and redeems what was broken.

Why is the forgiveness of our sins for God’s sake? I always assumed it was for ours. We are the ones who are forgiven of sin, released from bondage, made righteous, accepted, and free. So what does He gain from a painful, humiliating, sin atoning sacrifice?

Even in their mockery, the chief priests and scribes echoed God’s purpose and plan. Jesus had saved others, but Himself He could not save.

Jesus chose the whip because He wants us healed. Our battle with temptation and sin does not negate the work of the cross, nor does any battle with sickness, infirmity, or disease undermine the redemption that has been freely given.

God in His Holiness, reclaiming man in his sinfulness; unapproachable light infusing fallen man. Impossible. But then, He is the God of the impossible.