Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified.

It is a relatively short statement and Matthew’s account does not give much graphic detail. But history tells us that the scourging of Jesus was a horrific and painful ordeal that for many would end in death. The whip contained pieces of lead, shards of glass and other sharp objects that would tear the skin away and lacerate the muscles in the back. If the soldier who was trained to perform the scourging was skilled enough with the whip, he would be able to do enough internal damage that many would not survive the scourging.

The crucifixion had a whole other set of torture that would cause excruciating pain. I am so thankful on this Thanksgiving Day that Jesus died for me. There are many in this world who do not appreciate what Jesus did for them. They cannot comprehend the pain Jesus endured for them. Many who reject Jesus and what He did for them are squandering the greatest sacrifice ever given out by any human being, who also happened to be God come in the flesh. It is so important on this special Thanksgiving Day to give thanks for eternal life and everything that we have experienced and can receive because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. He has given us the gift of eternal life, the gift of an unimaginable inheritance in heaven, and the possibility of freedom here on earth as we walk in His Spirit.

I am so thankful for what Jesus did for me. I don’t want to squander what Jesus did for me on the cross. I know each day is a new opportunity for me to serve Him and allow for the redemptive work of the cross to shape me, transform me and empower me to serve others and lead them into a relationship with Jesus. As I help people come to Jesus, this opens the door for lasting freedom, the life people have always wanted to live, and the incredible gift of eternal life.

I look forward to sitting down with my parents and my wife and three kids to celebrate a Thanksgiving Day with a grateful and thankful heart. We will share together God’s goodness and how we can keep sharing with others the richness of His love.

Thank You, Lord Jesus for coming and dying on the cross for my sin. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve You by pastoring your people and by loving my friends and family. I set my heart to live for You each day. Please show me how to utilize a thankful heart to its full potential by living for You and not taking anything for granted. I ask that You give me opportunities to share with those who have not yet responded to your love and grace. Fill me with your Spirit so that I may have your boldness to speak words of life and love that invite people into relationship with You.