If you haven’t read Part 1 of this blog, go read it first, then come back…

It’s the cross. The cross is the secret. We have to meet God there, see him there, and stay close to its realities. Get away from it and the elephant will return. God has never, ever put anybody else through anything as bad as he put himself through. And, he did it because he loved every human being. Even me, at my worst. “For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16). “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). You think you’re being treated injustly? Perhaps. For sure some times. Injustice is a part of the curse. Look how Jesus was treated. You feeling a little broke right now? Look at what Jesus bank account was like. You feeling friendless and unwanted? Read about the last year of Jesus life. You think people who are killed and kidnapped and raped and murdered have it any worse than Jesus had in those last hours of his life. This war God knew was coming and warned our original ancestors about is bitter and bloody. “I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your offspring and hers…” (Gen. 3:15). Enmity. That’s Satan and sin venting wrath upon us in spiteful hate.

Clearly, this world is serious business. Clearly, this is one awful war zone. Clearly, the curse of sin is real and most painful. And, clearly our God is one tough God. And, he’s frightening. “But perfect love casts out fear…” (1 John 4:18). Of course, none of our love is “perfect”. However, our love is being grown and perfected by his Spirit, as he is transforming us “into his likeness” (2 Cor. 3:18) after all.

And, the same God who can really hurt us, or allow us to be hurt, is the same God who really wants to bless us in incredible ways. His blessings are innumerable. “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him…” (1 Cor. 2:9). “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Cor. 4:7). His grace is immeasurable. And, his love is inconceivable. Yeah, that’s why the cross hangs on all our church walls and around so many people’s necks. The cross is the only way we approach and realistically relate to such a powerful and frightening God. “Fix your thoughts on Jesus…” (Heb. 3:1). And, fight for your faith. Choose faith. Decide. It’s well worth it.