He bore your nails

As we are just one week away from Good Friday allow me to share a devotion with you.

I grew up visiting my grandfather’s blacksmith shop on many occasions. Watching him fashion red hot metal on an anvil was a real treat for me. Today, one of my brothers has that anvil and uses it often. And, I’ve been the recipient of his creativity.

The anvil is a tool that has been around for thousands of years. Its basic shape and composition has changed little over time. However, before it can be put to use it must go through the fire of tempering and hardening. Once finished, it’s ready to absorb the pounding blows as all manner of metals are shaped on its surface.

After Jesus was baptized by his cousin John he was let out into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. For forty days and nights he fasted, and at the end of this time he was hungry. Surly every muscle and fiber in his body was racked with pain. Then to make matters worse, the Devil approached and tempted him three times offering food, fame, and fortune. After rebuking him with the Word each time the Devil went away and angels came and ministered to Jesus.

Might this be the “hardening” process for what was to come? As Jesus began his ministry news spread about his miracles far and wide. For the next three years large crowds followed him everywhere he went. It must have been physically exhausting to have such numbers continually pressing in wanting to see a miracle or be touched. And Jesus, full of compassion and mercy, “healed all their diseases.”

But the ultimate test came when he had to bear our sins on the cross. His agony in the garden of Gethsemane the night before must have been horrific knowing what lay before him. “Father if it’s possible let this cup pass from me”, he cried. “Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.”

Soon, the sound of nails fashioned on the anvil and driven into his hands and feet would ring throughout the countryside. And with one last cry… it – was – finished!

“But who among the people realized he was dying for their sins – that he was suffering their punishment.” Isaiah 53:8 The next time you find yourself in the crucible of affliction remember – He bore your nails.

I'd love to hear from you.

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