What Compelling Love!

2 Corinthians 5: 14-15

14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we came to this conclusion: One died for

all; therefore, all died. 15And he died for all, so that those who live would no longer live

for themselves but for him, who died in their place and was raised again.

1 When I survey the wondrous cross

on which the Prince of glory died,

my richest gain I count but loss

And pour contempt on all my pride. (CW 407, verse 1)

What compelling love! It’s time to stand before the cross once again and marvel at the amazing love of

Christ. He was willing to die for all. . . for you. . . for me!

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast

save in the death of Christ, my God.

All the vain things that charm me most,

I sacrifice them to his blood. (verse 2)

What compelling love! No longer do we live for ourselves. No longer do we find satisfaction in

the temporary things of this life but find all comfort and value in the One who died in our place.

See, from his head, his hands, his feet,

sorrow and love flow mingled down.

Did e’er such love and sorrow meet

or thorns compose so rich a crown? (verse 3)

What compelling love! One died for all. I’m the sinner! A quick look at the 10 Commandments and I can’t

deny my sin, hatred and rebellion. But he died! He shed his blood so that I can be counted as dead to sin!

Were the whole realm of nature mine,

that were a tribute far too small;

love so amazing, so divine,

demands my soul, my life, my all. (verse 4)

What compelling love! Time at the cross leaves us almost speechless. So amazing is Jesus’ love for you

and for me. That amazement leads to lives lived for Jesus. How can we not praise the one who died for

us so that we can live now and forever with him!

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” is the theme for our Lenten worship that begins on Ash Wednesday,

March 5.

May God’s blessings be yours as you stand before that cross and marvel at the One who loves you

so much.

Pastor Galen Riediger