The Perfect Sacrifice

The story of Jesus’ crucifixion is likely the most well-known story for Christians and non-Christians alike. Since it is so well-known, we can sometimes forget the magnitude of this story and what it meant for our faith. We all know the highlights; Jesus was betrayed, He carried His cross a long distance, was crucified and then raised again on the third day. However, the story of His death and resurrection throughout the Bible is so much more than the sum of these highlights. The Gospels help to shed light on inspiring and humbling details of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Mark 15:21 details that Jesus was brought to Golgotha where He was offered wine with myrrh, but He refused to drink it. Reading this you may be thinking, Jesus just wasn’t thirsty or didn’t care to have something to drink in the moment, but His refusal is much more. Wine with myrrh was often offered to those who were facing crucifixion as it helped to numb the senses and the pain for which they were about to encounter. The drink was also a natural sedative and would help those that took it go to sleep.

Jesus was well aware of the effect of this wine. Refusing the wine meant that Jesus would ultimately feel every bit of pain He was currently suffering and going to suffer on the cross. The unbearable pain Jesus was likely feeling in that moment, yet He denied Himself any relief. He knew the purpose for which He was called and in these final moments, He was unwilling to compromise that purpose. He wouldn’t accommodate the slightest relief of pain. He would suffer the full burden and fulfill God’s plan as a perfect sacrifice.

We can all imagine the pain and suffering Jesus faced; the ultimate sacrifice for us sinners. While His death on the cross for the sins of each and every one of us is more than enough to demonstrate His love, this small detail in Mark emphasizes the greatness of this act. Jesus’ act of love for us in this moment is awesome. Not only was He dying for sins that He did not commit, but He chose to do so to the fullest extreme. What love and sacrifice that we don’t even deserve. This verse is a reminder of the extent to which Jesus would go to save us. Not even in the midst of His worst moments did He question God’s plan or His love for the world. He remained steadfast and died for our sins as the perfect sacrifice.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, words can’t express the gratitude we have for you and the sacrifice you made for us. Thank you for sending your son Jesus to suffer and die for our sins. Thank you for the love that you have shown me. I pray that you will be with me during my weakest moments and help to remind me to remain steadfast to your purpose for me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.