The Shema

Deuteronomy 6:4-5 Says, "Hear O Israel: The Lord Our God, The Lord is one. Love The Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." These two verses of God's Word are referred to as The Shema that means Johovah God desires for us to listen carefully and obey. In this case, God wanted His people to love Him with all their heart, soul and strength. This was important to Him and still is important today for Jews and Gentiles.

I believe this week's message is also a Shema message since Wednesday, March 6th starts the 40 day period known as Lent leading to Holy Week. The entire chapter of Isaiah 53 describes Jesus Christ, True Son Of The True God, being crucified for all people - Jews and Gentiles. Verse 5 reads, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed."

What does it mean "We Are Healed?" As a result of the death and resurrection of Jesus, all areas of our lives are healed not just physical healing. He defeated sin, death and the devil healing all areas of our lives - physical healing, spiritual healing, financial healing and relational healing. "We Are Healed!"

How can we be sure Isaiah 53 is describing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? Isaiah 52:13 declares, "See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted." Only the Son Of God was raised and lifted up and highly exalted for His obedience. Philippians 2:8-9 says, "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place."

In addition to forgiveness of sins and healing, what other benefits were the result of Jesus' death and resurrection? Salavation Of Our Souls! Hebrews 9:28 says, "So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him." Jesus will appear a second time and will bring to Himself all who have accepted Him as their Lord and Savior. (1Thessalonians 4:16-17, John 3:16) Bless His Holy Name!

May The Lord Bless You This Day And Every Day,

Frank