Oh, the wonderful cross . . .

It's Good Friday . . . and I've been meditating much today on the cross and what that means to me. The words of this song really speak to me -- it's a combination of a hymn that I've sung since my childhood, along with an additional chorus which reminds me that it's only through death that we can truly live.

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

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

Oh the wonderful cross

Oh the wonderful cross

Bids me come and die

And find that I may truly live

Oh the wonderful cross

Oh the wonderful cross

All who gather here

By grace draw near

And bless Your name

Were the whole realm of nature mine

That were an off'ring far too small

Love so amazing so divine

Demands my soul my life my all

Jesus' death on the cross not only purchased our salvation, but through that death and resurrection, He makes available to us the power that we need to live a victorious, abundant life here on earth. In exchange for His great sacrifice, how can I do less than give my life to Him . . . to live for Him who died for me?