Amazing love, how can it be that you my King should die for me? Amazing love, I know it’s true, and it’s my joy to honor you.

Good Friday, our family was able to visualize and tangibly experience the sacrifice of Jesus for us.

Both Lauren and Jackson received white carnations as a gift. They symbolized the purity of Jesus that He was willing to exchange for our dark and sinful hearts. In His sacrifice to save us, He shed his blood on the cross. We squeezed drops of red food coloring into the water to remember Jesus’ great love for us, that He was willing to give everything, even His own life, for us. Over the next several days, the white carnations will begin to turn color. Already the edges have tinges of red.

Later that morning, my dad cut down a few small trees on our property, with Jackson observing, and together with Matt they made three large crosses. After digging holes, the kids helped to carry and set the crosses upright.

The middle cross was last, and before we raised it, Jackson showed us where Jesus was nailed to the cross, on his hands and feet. Jackson then picked it up and set it straight.

We all sat down in front of the crosses and worshipped God. We prayed and thanked Jesus for giving His life for us. We sang praises to honor His great sacrifice.

It was a moving experience, and we plan to leave up the crosses. That way every time we look out our windows or go out to play during the day, we will be reminded of Jesus’ amazing love and be compelled to honor Him in all we do.