For vainly doth our human wisdom ponder–
Thy woes, Thy mercy, still transcend our wonder.
Oh, how should I do aught that could delight Thee!
Can I requite Thee?
LSB 439 st. 9
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
Hebrews 11:6
Our fallen human wisdom vainly ponders the suffering of Christ on the cross. We cannot understand this. It is beyond our comprehension: we who were enemies of God, separated from Him because of our sins, by our lack of faith and mercy, have been brought near to God. God has drawn us to Himself by His Son’s cross: “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself” (John 12:32).
The Holy Spirit gave us faith in this sinless Son of God, in whom His Father is well pleased, at Holy Baptism. So, in faith, we seek God as the only source of our forgiveness, life, and salvation. He rewards us with His Son and with the eternal life that He purchased for us with His precious blood. Now, in faith, we ponder our Lord’s bitter woes and His mercy upon us. We cannot repay Him for all His benefits to us, but we will call upon His name and proclaim His marvelous works that are beyond our comprehension.
Let us pray: dear heavenly Father, You have brought us near to You by your Son’s death on the cross. Grant that, as we ponder Your Son’s suffering and death, we would turn to You in repentance and faith; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
(Mika Patron, Deaconess Student)