So often, I hear the story of Jesus’ crucifixion and see it as the world taking Jesus’ life away. He was flogged and beaten. Mocked and scorned. Yet as he hung on the cross, his life was not taken from him. He gave it up.

When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

John 19:30 (ESV)

Remember that as you go through your day today. Even at the very end, Jesus had a choice. Through all the pain and suffering he still chose to give up his life for the very people who had put him on the cross.

Daily Bible reading: Ezra 1-2; John 19:23-42