For the last few weeks, the journey has taken me through John 17-19. Life can be a challenge but we have all we need because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Available is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The love displayed on the cross changes everything because we receive boldness, courage, and strength to take on each challenge of each day.

On the journey through John 17, noted was that Jesus showed us how to be the perfect team member by sharing His power from Father God with us. All believers can stand together as team members, and nothing can defeat us because there is total victory over the evil one. This day, we are one in Christ Jesus and He is glorified as we walk the path side by side together.

From John 18:1-27 is a lesson on courage. Jesus was not afraid at all when they came to arrest Him and taught by example. He knew what the future held, yet He was on a mission and had the courage to follow through. He faced His enemies in order to fulfill His purpose which was to suffer in this world in order to set you and me free.

As explained in John 18:28-40, God has given everyone a purpose. Jesus came as king of our spiritual realm to provide spiritual riches for each person. Pray that you know your purpose and affirm others as they pursue their important place in His kingdom.

Continuing the journey through John 19:1-16, noted is that our greatest strength comes from God because of Christ. A power is available that can move mountains, calm storms, and bring us through. Jesus carried the weight of the world on His shoulders, and He will carry us too.

Reading about Jesus’ finished work in John 19:17-30, explained is that Jesus devoted His entire life to every detail of God’s plan as laid out in the Scriptures. He demonstrated poise under tremendous stress as His life was freely given up as the sacrifice for you and me, so the debt of sin was paid.

After Jesus died on the cross as noted in John 19:31-42, the next day was Sabbath, so the Jewish leaders wanted to remove all the bodies left on the crosses. They asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down (v. 31). When they came to Jesus, He was already dead, so they didn’t break His legs. To make sure He was dead, the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear (v. 34).

This fulfills the scriptures written in Psalm 34:20!

He protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

What was written in the Old Testament many years ago was fulfilled as recorded in the Gospel writings. The crucifixion of Jesus was on Friday and His body had been laid in a tomb.  At this point, the disciples were downcast, and the mood was, “can’t get worse than this”.  Continuing the journey through the Bible over the next few weeks, it starts to get better.