When Jesus talks about the crucifixion in St. John’s Gospel he speaks of being “lifted up.” The Greek meaning of the term “lifted up,” like English, has a positive overtone. We might even translate it as “exalted.” Jesus’ crucifixion is, therefore, not a tragedy to be avoided at all costs but a stage for the glory of God to be manifest. There is a lesson for each of us. When we are going through some tragedy or some difficulty we must not see that as the whole story. Rather, God uses those moments as the occasion for bringing about something beyond what we had hoped for or expected. God can use everything, even the worst of things, to bring about a new manifestation of glory.
APRIL42017
By Church Staff