Happy Monday! Thank you for joining me today. Have you ever been in a situation where someone labeled you? Maybe it was a good label or maybe it was a painful label you couldn’t shake. Well today, we will read on a label that was given and a slight protest that occurred.

I pray the Lord will fill your day with peace. May he comfort your spirit and carry you through the week. Enjoy your day.

BIBLE VERSE
“_³⁵ After they had nailed him to the cross, the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. ³⁶ Then they sat around and kept guard as he hung there. ³⁷ A sign was fastened above Jesus’ head, announcing the charge against him. It read: “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” ³⁸ Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.” – Matthew 27:35-38 NLT

REFLECTION
Jesus was labeled with a sign above his head just like everyone else who was crucified. It was the custom to list the crime of the person. His crime “King of the Jews”. While religious leaders tried to have the signed changed it was not. The label was set for all the world to see.

Jesus hung there nailed to the cross for our sins. Today, if Jesus were charged again would we attend? Would we stand up for Jesus or stand against him? Or, would it be easier to turn and walk away and not be involved?

Sisiters and brothers, not to diminish any funeral that you have seen or have been apart of, however, I want to ask the following questions:

• Was there a large funeral procession?

• Was there a large funeral with a number of people mourning Jesus’ death?

• Were people honoring Jesus for all the healing, teaching, feeding, etc., that he did in the region while he was hanging on the cross?

Sisters and brothers, Jesus came for the lost and to set the captives free. He gave his life for us. Let us give our lives to following the King of Kings, the King over all things. The One who changed everything at the cross for us. Let us be on a mission about our Father’s business and bring others to know the freedom that is available in Christ Jesus.

Wear your new label well:

• Child of God

• Justified and redeemed

• Accepted by Christ

• A new creation in Christ

• A citizen of Heaven

PRAYER
Father God, thank you for your love for us. Lord, you took our place and we are grateful for what you did for us. Lord, we value what you continue to do for us. Lord, as we think on your grace, love and mercy – there is no one else that we would consider following except you. Lord, forgive us for forgetting to count the cost of our freedom in you. Lord, we love you and thank you. Lord, continue to teach us about your grace and love for us. Help us to love one another as you have loved us. In Jesus name, amen!