DEAR GOD: You Are Our Keeper of Light, Victor Over Darkness~

Posted on September 14, 2025 by C D SWANSON

The Light of Christ in a World of Darkness

My heart and spirit are highly grieved by the state of affairs in this world today. My soul is crying and my heart aches from this suffocating evil that is swirling around today. It is an amass of sadness. It is horrifying and it is beyond human comprehension. It is traumatic and it can be overwhelming even to the most faithful. But it is our faith – that keeps us going – through it all.

Jesus warned us – Matthew 10:15:

“Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.”

Jesus said this to His disciples as He sent them out—warning that towns rejecting the Gospel would face a harsher judgment than even Sodom and Gomorrah. There are so many who are “rejecting” the gospel openly and defiantly. Those who have no regard for humanity, and who cheer in the face of egregious wrongs, and violent killings and senseless monstrosities of action.

Luke 17:28–30

“It was the same in the days of Lot: People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed.”

Jesus compares the end times to the days of Noah and Lot—times of worldly distraction, moral decay, and sudden judgment, with prolific non feeling and indifference to all of their brothers and sisters – and His creatures as well.

What Mirrors These Warnings Today?

We see echoes of these warnings in our world now:

Moral confusion and inversion—where what is evil is called good, and what is good is mocked or silenced.
Rampant materialism and distraction—just as in the days of Lot, people are “planting and building,” yet spiritually asleep.
Rejection of truth—even in places where the Gospel is freely preached, hearts grow cold, and miracles are dismissed.
Violence, division, and desecration of sacred things—from the land to the womb to the sanctuary.
Open and careless destruction of human beings – and laughing and mocking in the aftermath of such evil perversion.

Jesus is victorious. He reigns now, not just in heaven, but over every shadow that tries to rise. No matter how dark the world may seem—how twisted, how desecrated, how wearying—His light is not dimmed. His promises are not broken. His return is not delayed by chaos. It is drawing near.

The days may echo Sodom, the nights may tremble with uncertainty, but we are not abandoned. We are the remnant, the watchful, the faithful. And we hold fast to this grain of hope:

“Behold, I am making all things new.” — Revelation 21:5 “Your reward will be great in heaven.” — Luke 6:23 “He who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13

One day, every injustice will be overturned. Every tear will be wiped away. Every act of stewardship—every prayer over the world, every defense of sacred land, every quiet obedience—will be remembered and rewarded.

So, we wait, not in despair, but in Holy expectation. Because Jesus reigns. Because He is coming. Because the victory is already won!

“LORD – We look to You knowing You are in control and that You defeated death, and You reign victorious now and always, may we cling to You and follow You through all the days of our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Led By Your Love & Taught by Your Grace~

Posted on September 3, 2025 by C D SWANSON

Expressions of Grace In the Ministry of Jesus (2), By Femi Aribisala ... Isaiah 48:17 (KJV): “Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.”

This verse is a tender declaration of divine mentorship. God is not a distant observer—He is our Redeemer, our Holy One, and our personal instructor in all things that bring true gain. The word profit here isn’t merely financial—it speaks to spiritual fruitfulness, emotional healing, and purposeful living. He teaches us not just to survive, but to flourish. And He doesn’t leave us wandering—He leads us, step by step, in the way we should go, not the way we might impulsively choose.

This is the kind of leadership that honors our dignity. It’s not coercive—it’s invitational. God’s guidance is rooted in love, not control. He sees the full terrain of our lives: the bruised places, the sacred longings, the detours we regret. And still, He says, “Come—I’ll show you the way.”

This echoes Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV): “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” It’s a divine promise of direction—not just in grand decisions, but in daily steps.

Where in your life do you feel unsure or weary—and how might you invite God to teach and lead you there, not just toward resolution, but toward restoration?

LORD- You are my Redeemer and my Teacher. In every season of confusion or transition, You offer wisdom that heals and direction that restores. Lead me not by force, but by Your gentle hand. Teach me to profit in ways that honor Your heart—through peace, integrity, and grace. May I follow not just the path that seems easy, but the one You’ve lovingly prepared. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Our Unchanging Redeemer Who Triumphs Forever~

Posted on April 29, 2025 by C D SWANSON

God is Unchanging - Faithlife Sermons

“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:” –Job 19:25

“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” This verse is a timeless declaration of hope and faith in the midst of suffering. Job, though surrounded by unimaginable losses and despair, boldly proclaims his belief in a living Redeemer—a powerful testimony to the enduring strength of faith. The concept of a Redeemer resonates throughout Scripture, revealing God’s plan of salvation and His deep love for humanity.

In Job’s time, the Redeemer represented one who would rescue, restore, and defend—a figure who fights for justice and vindicates the oppressed. In the broader biblical narrative, this Redeemer is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns eternally. Christ embodies the role of the Redeemer by offering deliverance from sin, conquering death, and providing eternal life to all who trust in Him. The phrase “he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth” points to the ultimate victory of Christ, where He will reign supremely and vindicate His people.

This declaration invites us to meditate on the assurances found in other scriptures. Isaiah 44:6 echoes this sentiment: “I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.” Similarly, 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 proclaims Christ’s resurrection: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” These verses collectively affirm that our Redeemer is alive, eternal, and triumphant.

Living Out the Truth

To live out Job 19:25, we must anchor our hope in the knowledge that our Redeemer lives and remains faithful. It means trusting God during life’s hardships, reflecting on His promises, and celebrating His grace even when circumstances challenge our faith. In practical terms, this can be done through intentional gratitude—finding moments each day to thank God for His provision. It involves sharing the hope of Christ with others, just as Job’s words inspire countless believers. Acts of compassion, serving those in need, and forgiving as Christ forgave also reflect the heart of the Redeemer.

Consider Job’s story: though he faced physical suffering, relational loss, and accusations from friends, his faith remained steadfast. When trials come, we can choose to respond like Job—acknowledging our pain yet affirming our trust in God’s unchanging character. This kind of faith declares, even in darkness, “I know that my Redeemer lives.”

Moral Reflections

Job’s confidence in the Redeemer challenges us to examine the foundations of our faith. Are we placing our hope in temporary comforts or eternal truths? This verse reminds us that God’s presence is the ultimate reassurance, outweighing even the fiercest storms. It compels us to honor God by living lives of integrity, gratitude, and humility, knowing He has redeemed us with purpose.

As Christians today, we worship the same God Job revered—the living Redeemer whose love transcends time. Let us honor Him by embracing the assurance that He is alive and standing on our behalf. This faith unites us with believers of every generation, forming a bond that connects the worshippers of biblical times to the Christians of today.

“Dear Redeeming Lord, we praise You for Your eternal Presence and unending love. You are our anchor in stormy seas and our hope in life’s uncertainties. Teach us to live in the assurance that You are alive and reigning, guiding us through every challenge. May our lives reflect Your grace and truth, and may we honor You through our words and actions. Let us stand firm in faith, knowing You are our Redeemer, yesterday, today, and forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.“

Reflective Questions

How can you remind yourself daily that your Redeemer is alive and active in your life?
In what ways can your life reflect the hope and confidence that Job displayed?
How does trusting in a living Redeemer transform the way you face challenges or show love to others?

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Redeeming Us For Eternity

Posted on April 24, 2025 by C D SWANSON

“Thus saith the LORD, I have redeemed thee, called thee by name; thou art mine.” – Isaiah 43:1 (KJV)

The Redemption That Claims Our Souls

What a declaration of love and belonging—a redemption so profound that the Creator Himself calls us by name. This is no generic salvation, no transaction conducted with indifference, but an intimate act of grace. When the LORD says, “Thou art mine,” He speaks to the deepest cries of the human heart: the longing to belong, to be cherished, and to be known.

The word “redeemed” in this context carries the weight of release from bondage. It signifies a spiritual emancipation that could not be purchased with corruptible things but only with the life of the spotless Lamb. Our freedom was wrought by the One who, in His sovereignty, stooped to bear our infirmities and transgressions. He did not merely save us from something; He saved us for something—communion with Him, now and forever.

Scripture resounds with the melody of redemption.

“I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death” (Hosea 13:14).
“Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psalm 107:2).

These truths reveal that redemption is both an act of divine will and love. It is a rescue mission of cosmic proportions, executed with precision and sealed with the blood of Christ. And yet, this act of grace demands a response. How do we live as people who have been claimed by God Himself? How do we honor the One who exchanged His glory for our filth so that we might wear His righteousness?

Moral Thoughts: Redemption calls us to recognize our worth in the eyes of God, not in fleeting achievements or external validation. It invites us to live lives marked by gratitude, purity, and purpose. Every redeemed soul becomes an echo of God’s love, a witness to the world that true freedom is found in Christ alone.

Reflective Questions:

How does the assurance of being called by name transform your perspective on life?
In what ways can you actively reflect the redemptive love of God in your community?

“Dear Holy Redeemer, merciful Savior, Lord of glory, giver of peace, author of grace, keeper of promises, light of truth, ransomer of souls, King eternal, anchor of hearts, call us by name, lead us to Your love, seal us in Your redemption. In Jesus name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: Your Touch Heals, Soothes, & Brings Joy~

Posted on October 13, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Divine Healing Is For You Today! - AFCM International

Let’s dive into some verses of healing, and God’s promises to bring us joy and comfort and peace!

Healing Verses (ESV):

Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save
me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise.”

Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their
wounds.”

Isaiah 53:5: “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was
crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that
brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”

Commentary:

Healing, in both physical and spiritual senses, is a profound act of grace and tender mercy from God.

The verses from Jeremiah, Psalms, and Isaiah remind us that God is not only aware of our pains and sufferings but is actively involved in healing us.

This healing is not just a remedy for our bodies but extends to our hearts and souls. He extends this great compassion and mercy to all those who are willing to accept it, and go to Him with hearts filled with truth, seeking Him in earnest.

When Jeremiah cries out, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed,” it’s a declaration of complete trust in God’s power to heal. It is an acknowledgment that true healing comes from the LORD the ultimate Healer.

Similarly, the Psalmist in Psalm 147 speaks to the deep and intimate care God has for the brokenhearted. God does not just heal physical wounds but also the emotional and spiritual ones, binding up our sorrows with His boundless love.

Isaiah 53:5 connects this healing directly to the sacrifice of Jesus. It highlights that our healing has been paid for by the wounds Christ bore on our behalf.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love and the
lengths He went to bring us peace and healing.

Moral Thoughts:

Trust in Divine Healing: Our trust in God’s ability to heal us should be unwavering, recognizing that He has the power to mend not just our
bodies but our spirits.
Holistic Healing: Healing is not just physical but emotional and
spiritual. God’s care encompasses every aspect of our being.
Gratitude for Christ’s Sacrifice: The ultimate source of our healing is the sacrifice of Jesus, and our gratitude should reflect the magnitude of
this gift.

Reflective Questions:

How have you experienced God’s healing in your life, whether
physically, emotionally, or spiritually?
In what ways can you place your trust more fully in God’s
ability to heal your current struggles?
How does reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice for your healing
deepen your gratitude and faith?

Prayer:

Dear LORD -Heavenly Father, we thank you for your infinite love and the healing power that you bestow upon us.

Heal us, O Lord, in our times of pain and suffering, and bind our wounds with your tender care.

Teach us to trust wholly in your ability to restore us, both body and soul. We are forever grateful for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, through whose wounds we are healed.

May we live lives that reflect your healing grace, bringing hope and comfort to others, and shine the light from within to without for all to see, and may we all be a testimony and witness to Your great glory and mercy and love, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Scripture to Meditate Upon:

Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light.”

Blessing:

May the healing grace of God enfold you and bring peace to your
heart. May you rest in His love and find renewal for your spirit. May you be blessed with the assurance that God’s healing hand is
always upon you, guiding you with His everlasting love.

God Bless you all~

Jesus Healing Hands

DEAR GOD: Please Help Those Who Are Spiritually “Dead”~

Posted on September 30, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Spiritual Death | Anthony Santiago | www.anthonysantiago.org - YouTube

Awakening from Spiritual Deadness

In this modern-day world of unrest, one can feel or become spiritually dead. This state of spiritual numbness can leave us feeling restless, disconnected, and yearning for a deeper connection with God. The journey from spiritual deadness to awakening is a profound and transformative experience, one that requires introspection, faith, and a willingness to embrace God’s love and guidance. To be open to the invitation of acceptance of the love and invitation from Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Savior.

Understanding Spiritual Deadness

Spiritual deadness is a state where one feels disconnected from God, lacking the vibrancy and joy that comes from a close relationship with Him. It can manifest as a sense of emptiness, purposelessness, or a feeling of being lost. This condition is often accompanied by a neglect of spiritual practices such as prayer, reading scripture, and participating in communal worship.

The Path to Awakening

Awakening from spiritual deadness involves several key steps:

Acknowledgment: The first step is to recognize and admit that you are feeling spiritually dead. This requires honesty and humility. Psalm 51:17 (ESV) says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”
Repentance: Turning away from sin and seeking God’s forgiveness is crucial. Acts 3:19 (ESV) encourages us, “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.”
Prayer: Engaging in heartfelt prayer is essential. Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Scripture: Immersing yourself in God’s Word can reignite your spiritual life. Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) states, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.”
Community: Surrounding yourself with a supportive faith community can provide encouragement and accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV) says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”

A Story of Spiritual Awakening

Consider the story of Sarah, a woman who once felt spiritually dead. Sarah had drifted away from her faith, consumed by the demands of her career and personal life. She felt an overwhelming sense of restlessness and emptiness. One day, she decided to attend a church service after years of absence. During the service, she felt a stirring in her heart as the pastor spoke about God’s unending love and grace.

Sarah began to pray earnestly, asking God to revive her spirit. She started reading the Bible daily, finding comfort and guidance in its pages. She joined a small group at her church, where she found support and encouragement from fellow believers. Over time, Sarah’s spiritual life was rekindled. She felt a renewed sense of purpose and joy, knowing that she was walking closely with God once again.

Moral Thoughts and Takeaways

God’s Love is Unfailing: No matter how far we stray, God’s love remains constant. Romans 8:38-39 (ESV) assures us, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The Power of Repentance: Turning back to God and seeking His forgiveness can restore our relationship with Him.
The Importance of Community: Being part of a faith community provides support, encouragement, and accountability.

Reflective Questions

What areas of your life have you neglected that may have contributed to your spiritual deadness?
How can you incorporate more prayer and scripture reading into your daily routine?
Who in your life can you reach out to for spiritual support and encouragement?

Meditative Thoughts to Ponder

Reflect on God’s unwavering love and grace.
Consider the ways in which you can draw closer to God each day.
Meditate on the peace that comes from a restored relationship with God.

Powerful Humble Prayer

“LORD -I come before You with a humble heart, acknowledging my need for Your presence in my life. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Revive my spirit, Lord, and draw me closer to You. Help me to seek You earnestly through prayer and Your Word. Surround me with a supportive community that will encourage me in my faith journey. Thank You for Your unfailing love and grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”

Scripture to Close the Day

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

Blessings to the Reader And Person Who Needed To Hear This Today

May God’s peace and love fill your heart. May you find rest and renewal in His presence. May your spirit be awakened, and your faith strengthened.

Blessings to you on your journey back to God.

“Someone needed to hear this today. Someone, or perhaps many – needed this message today. It came into my heart very strongly and with a sense of urgency. So, whoever is feeling “spiritually disconnected” or “restless” this post was for you…”

See related image detail. New Life Alliance Church main - New Life Alliance Church

DEAR GOD: We Are Victorious & Triumph Through Christ~

Posted on April 17, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Christ Victorious — Newbury Christadelphians

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:571

Victory is a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament’s tales of deliverance to the New Testament’s promises of spiritual triumph. It’s a concept that transcends mere earthly wins, pointing us towards a greater victory won through faith and perseverance.

Body In the scriptures, victory is often depicted not as a result of human endeavor but as a gift from God. Deuteronomy 20:4 assures us, “For the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”

This verse encapsulates the biblical perspective that victory is not in numbers or strength but in divine support.

The New Testament further emphasizes this by highlighting the ultimate victory over sin and death achieved through Jesus Christ. Romans 8:37 declares, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Here, Paul speaks of a victory that is not just about overcoming but about transcending; it’s about being “more than conquerors.”

Reflection

How can we apply the understanding of victory in faith to our daily struggles?
In what ways does recognizing God as the source of our victory change our perspective on challenges?

Conclusion

The essence of biblical victory lies not in the absence of struggle but in the presence of God within those struggles. It’s about the peace and assurance that come from knowing that, in the end, faith grants us victory over the greatest adversary—our own limitations. In that being said, we are ONLY victorious through CHRIST alone. If we were by ourselves, we wouldn’t need Him. But I have news for the world in those that DON’T Believe – WE NEED HIM!

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the victory You provide through Your Son, Jesus Christ. May we always remember that our strength lies not in ourselves but in You. Help us to trust in Your victory, to face our battles with courage, and to emerge more than conqueror, which only can be done in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May this post inspire and remind us of the true victory that comes from faith and reliance on Christ alone…

DEAR GOD: You Triumphed & Reign Victorious~

Posted on March 31, 2024 by C D SWANSON

Jesus Empty Tomb Wallpapers - Top Free Jesus Empty Tomb Backgrounds ...

“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’”-Luke 24:6-7:

The Triumph of Love: A Reflection on the Resurrection

In the stillness of predawn of the first Paschal, a miracle unfolded that forever altered the course of human history. The stone was rolled away, not to let the living in, but to let the dead out. Jesus Christ, who had been crucified and laid to rest in the tomb, was no longer there. He had risen, just as He said. This event, so central to the Christian faith, is not just a testament to His Divine power over death but a profound tribute to the boundless love that Jesus embodies.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian belief, symbolizing the ultimate victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

It is a story of redemption, where the blood shed on the cross washes away the sins of humanity, offering a path to reconciliation with God. The “He is Risen” verse is not merely a statement of fact; it is a declaration of hope, a confirmation of His unparalleled Divine and perfect love, and a call to transformation.

Jesus’ journey to the cross was marked by suffering and sacrifice, a testament to His unwavering commitment to humanity’s salvation. The nails that pierced His hands, the thorns that crowned His head, and the spear that wounded His side were endured out of love—a love so profound that it chose to suffer for the sake of others. In His resurrection, Jesus did not just defeat death; He redeemed life, infusing it with purpose and meaning.

The empty tomb is a powerful symbol of God’s love. It reminds us that no darkness is too deep, no sin too great, and no despair too overwhelming that it cannot be overcome by divine love. The resurrection assures us that love is stronger than hate, life is stronger than death, and hope is stronger than despair.

As we reflect on the resurrection, we are invited to consider the implications of this miraculous event in our own lives. How does the love demonstrated by Jesus on the cross and through His resurrection inspire us to live? Are we willing to embrace the transformative power of this love, allowing it to shape our actions, our relationships, and our understanding of ourselves?

In conclusion, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just an event to be celebrated; it is a reality to be lived and embraced. It is the ultimate gift from above. It is significant and it is life altering. It challenges us to rise above our circumstances, to seek reconciliation, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to love as we have been loved. It calls us to be agents of hope in a world that often seems hopeless.

How can we embody the love that Jesus demonstrated through His life, death, and resurrection?
In what ways can we extend forgiveness and grace to others, as we have received from Christ?
How does the hope of the resurrection influence our perspective on the trials and tribulations of life?

“Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your love, demonstrated so profoundly through the resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You for the hope and redemption that this miraculous event represents. Help us to live in the light of Your love, to extend grace to others, and to be bearers of hope in a world in need. May our lives be a tribute to Your love, as we seek to follow in the footsteps of our risen Savior. Amen.”

1 Peter 1:3: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
2 Corinthians 5:14-15: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”
Romans 6:5-6: “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.”

DEAR GOD: You Forgave Him & All Else~

Posted on December 20, 2023 by C D SWANSON

Hallelujah by Kelley Mooney - YouTube

As Jesus stated in the Gospel of Matthew 28:20…He will never leave us, and He hasn’t. Jesus keeps all of His promises, as does His Father, God. Jesus is with us today in the person of the Holy Spirit.

He continues to love us, guide us, hold us in times of trouble, and be an ever presence in our lives. His love keeps us alive. For it was God’s love that sent His Son to redeem us, and give us salvation, by His blood which we were saved. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, Jesus, for your supreme sacrifice.

Again, this is a story based on an account of what happened and what the Centurion may have been thinking as he took part in the crucifixion of Christ.

The Task –

“Out of my way…I want to see them pay.” One voice declared with abject and fiendish delight.

“Hey- Where have you been?” One of his peers yelled out.

“Just getting everything prepared.” He answered with a quiet yet shaken demeanor.

“Why are you acting so strange? You knew about this appointment for a while, what is going on with you?” His good friend asked.

“I know. It’s just…” He stared at his sack he managed to get before his mount fled.

“What?” His friend insisted.

Before he could answer he observed “them” ascending the hill. “What am I going to do?” There was no answer for him, he had an appointment and orders to follow. His hands began to shake as he opened the sack by his sandaled feet.

“Hey, what is going on with you?” His friend pulled his arm and glared into his eyes with a fierce determination to understand his reticent behavior.

He yanked his arm away from his friend’s paralyzing grip, “Go about your business-nothing is wrong.”

They locked eyes for a moment, until his friend backed away, “Okay.”

He took a deep breath. He watched the men approaching. It was unusually hot. The sun was searing his skin. He felt like he was on fire…or in the gates of hell. “What was going on?”

An acrid stench was in the still air. He was perspiring copiously. He didn’t want to accept this appointment. To disobey was not an option. He tossed and turned all night, not realizing why he was experiencing torment, and pain. He was in pure anguish!

“Okay, here you go. This is the one you are supposed to handle. I will take care of this one on the left, and your friend will take care of the one on the right.” The handler said systematically.

He turned his head and saw him. He was unrecognizable! His face bloodied and bruised. His body had open wounds from being whipped and scourged. A crown of thorns atop his matted hair intermingled with blood and dirt. He was placed upon the cross and roped with his arms spread wide…stretched to unbearable lengths. He heard his shoulders pop and felt vomit fill his mouth, as he gazed at him through tears.

He took the “items” out of the sack. Three huge tent nails. He brought the first one to his feet. His hands shaking, he looked at the man they called Jesus.

Jesus looked at him with love and compassion, “You are fulfilling the scriptures, but I feel your compassion…I have taken note of this and so has my Father.”

He wailed, “Forgive me!” as he hammered the first of three nails into Jesus. “My Lord, forgive me.” When he completed the abominable task- the wooden cross was hoisted high on Golgotha.

He glanced up sickened to witness his “handiwork” on Jesus’ feet and hands…then collapsed in a wretched heap on the ground.

He declared in sincerity, his voice quivering, “This is truly the Son of God, this is the Christ.”

DEAR GOD: You Are My Priceless Treasure~

Posted on November 12, 2023 by C D SWANSON

Philippians 3:7-11 (NLT)

I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!

When I meditate on the Apostle Paul’s words, I sense the joy of a “free man, a joyful man. He is saying things he once treasured became his garbage. Old things of insignificance that once had his all-consuming attention, no longer interested Paul. Spending more time with Jesus was worth all the currency in the world, Jesus was his treasure, nothing else.

Likewise, it is with those of faith. We have found a veritable treasure in Christ, and it is invaluable, nothing surpasses the love of Christ. There is joy in knowing He loves us. There is peace in knowing He is with us always. There is happiness knowing He redeemed us with His blood. There is a comfortable assurance knowing He saved us from sin, and our salvation is promised. And we know complete joy as we enter Eternity.

Jesus is our Treasure. Not only our treasure but the One Superior Omnipotent King of kings and LORD of lords that will never leave us. This reality of Christianity is beyond our comprehension, and He is worthy of our love, now and always.

“Father, thank You for Your promises and joy of loving You, You are my Treasure, and my reason for living, thank You for all the days of my life and for the eternity to come, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

~Dear God With Love~

C D Swanson

Tag Archives: Redeemer