Death By Crucifixion

Death. One of two sure-things in life--the other being taxes. When I think about death, I instantly think of a casket, black attire and grief-stricken faces. The first question I think of when I hear that somebody died is, "How?" Usually, I'm told to pray because of a, b and c. Instantly, my mind thinks the worst thing...murder, suicide, car accident, etc. etc. When looking at death...it's definitely something that affects a multitude, it's something that is absolute and complete. That is, when we're looking at it with physical eyes.
When we look at our greatest example, Jesus The Redeemer, The Savior, The Spotless Lamb, The Son of Man, The Great Sacrifice...we see that death is not an absolute nor does it mark completion. For Jesus conquered death and the only thing complete about His mission was when he descended into heaven...and He's still returning so that's up for discussion in another post. What a beautiful thing to see Jesus die--something that is absolute and complete, conquer death and become alive. Life, victory, assurance. But I'm jumping ahead of myself...
There are various ways of death. Gunshot wound--which is usually quick depending where the bullet lands, car crash--which is usually quick depending how fast you were going, suicide--which is probably the quickest if done right...then there's that old school crucifixion method. Where nails are driven through the wrists until it slams through a wooden cross. The nails slicing through every muscle, nerve and vein. There one would hang for hours in agony. A slow death. Keyword...slow. It was no fun under the sun. There were no words being formed on your tongue during this time just the grunting, moaning and crying. There was no pleasure in this death. It was no easy task. It was torture. Praise God, Jesus conquered such a horrific death. The worst known to man.

You see, He's my example in ALL things but in this season of my life where I'm dying to my will, my feelings, my mindset and most of all my emotions...He's my CROSS. And though my death is by crucifixion...who better is there to coach me through this death. The uneasy, uncomfortable feelings I feel...I got Him guiding me through, whispering "You can do ALL THINGS through me, Who strengthens You." What an encouragement that at the end of the tunnel...I will be like gold refined by the fire, shining as the impurities have burned off.

Many times, people ask, how would you rather choose to die? Many would say burning, drowning, or take the safe approach by saying in their sleep. I too probably would've said that not too long ago...or I'd say I WANT JESUS TO COME BACK B4 I DIE. However, if you ask me now...I'd smile and reply, "Death by crucifixion is the only death that brings life when it's complete."

May you all be encouraged and ask God what it is that He wants to teach you in the silence of your walk. God Bless.