It Is Finished: A 5-Day Pilgrimage Back to the Cross by Charles MartinÖrnek

# Mirror and Magnifier When you think of the Cross, what comes to mind? Death? Salvation? Hope? What about the word offensive ? That’s how Paul referred to it when writing to the church in Galatia. Centuries before that, Isaiah called it a stumbling block. But although it is foolishness to those who don’t believe, to those being saved, it is the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18). As we gaze upon the Cross, it becomes a mirror that reflects our true selves and a magnifier that enlarges our view of who we are. Sadly, this may not always be a pleasant portrayal. We may be tempted to look away as we come face-to-face with shame, anger, lust, or pride. When we truly examine ourselves through the Cross, we see the sin and ugliness that Christ died to redeem. We realize that we’re not so different from Judas. And this offensiveness can leave us feeling discouraged and hopeless. Thankfully, God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest effort we can put forth (1 Cor. 1:25). He hasn’t left us alone to face this offense. He has given us the Holy Spirit, which is His power in us, and has removed the offense of the Cross. As we look to the Cross, we no longer see condemnation but hope as He transforms us to be more like Him. Pray Father, thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit as my strength. Help me to look to the Cross to see what You’ve done for me and let it transform me to be more like Your Son. In His name, amen.