"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

Today's is not a lighthearted message. It is, however, one that I've been overwhelmed by and convinced calls for consideration. Isaiah 53:5 is my memory verse this month. I've read this passage before, of course. These past weeks though, have been different. The process of genuinely meditating on these words has moved something in my heart. I'm broken over the realization that I've brushed past this verse without so much as a pause. How have I grown so comfortable with my Savior's sacrifice that complacency wins? I've literally ached over the confession that I do not daily fall to my knees over the reality that sinless and spotless, the Lamb of God was pierced – pierced – for me. Do you consider that? Friends, He was gashed, severed, slashed, to the point that He was unrecognizable. He was crushed, limb by limb, in my place. The Journal of American Medicine has described Jesus Christ's death on the cross as, "A study in the agony of a man whose arms and legs--their major nerves possibly cut by spikes--shot searing jolts of pain through a body already ravaged by blood loss from a severe whipping. Having suffered for at least three hours, Jesus finally died of an unusually severe variety of blood loss-induced shock and a type of suffocation that normally resulted from crucifixion."

The Easter season is one of hope and renewal. However, this time of rebirth makes it convenient, comfortable to skip over the excruciation of the crucifixion on our journey to praise. To do so is a tragic loss. Stopping at the foot of the cross to mourn is marvelous for our souls. In our mourning, we gain perspective. We are reminded to marvel at the love of our Father and King. The sacrifice that Jesus made for us deserves more than a brush-by. Today, and every day, may we be acutely aware of the price paid for our souls? As we celebrate our freedom, interrupt us, Lord, over the torment that bought it. I pray you walk with pensive reverence that results in joy overflowing this Easter season.