But Jesus let out a loud cry, and died. And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. And when the centurion, who was standing right in front of Him, saw that He died in this way, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!”
Tough times do not always bring out the best in us. They often bring out coping mechanisms, inconsistencies, and remind us of the brevity of life we would often prefer to ignore. Faithfully walking through hardship points others to the glory of God. Jesus suffered in such a way that testified that He was truly the Son of God. His endurance, strength, perseverance, and even final cry all worked together to be more than just another crucifixion this centurion witnessed; it was a moment that pointed him to God.
In suffering it is easy to ask, “What is the point?” The trials of life can expose our greatest doubts and insecurities and make us feel powerless. This moment of Christ on the cross reminds us we can entrust our struggles to God as the One who carries them. Even in our moments of greatest weakness, our witness can still be strong, not because we have it all together but because we point to God who sees us through. Paul wrote of this in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” At Christ’s moment of greatest weakness, others could see God’s work in Him clearly displayed. No matter your struggle, you have the same opportunity to turn to God and share a testimony that magnifies His name.
- When have you seen God work through someone going through a tough time?
- What are some ways we can point people to God in our struggles? What are some things that hinder us from doing that?
- Pray and thank God for His Son who testified of who He is even in His darkest moments.
