Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal. 2:20). Paul personalized the selfless sacrifice of Christ when he made the point that Jesus died for him. The same could be said for any man or woman.

Often it is acknowledged that Jesus died for mankind, for the sins of the world (Jn. 1:29). This is true and should never be forgotten. Jesus died not only for people in our country, but also for people of all nations — both Jew and Gentile! Not only did He die for whites, but He died for blacks, Hispanics, Asians, and all other races of people (cf. 1 Jn. 2:2). However, let us not “over” generalize the death of the Savior.

Jesus died for each man and woman. You and I can say with Paul, “the Son of God … loved ME, and gave Himself up for ME.” The Lord loved you enough to leave heaven, live in the flesh (being subject to ailments, trials, and temptation), be mistreated and persecuted, and die an agonizing death on the cross (cp. Phil. 2:5-8). It was of no personal benefit to Him, but an expression of true love for you.

Friend, the Son of God died for YOU. He did it so that your sins may be forgiven and you may go to heaven (cp. Matt. 26:26-28). Yet, it is manifest that the Lord calls upon you to respond to His love — the benefits of which are not automatically bestowed upon man. You must be willing to follow the Lord, as He said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Lk. 9:23). Are you willing to do this for One who has done so much for you?

Let us acknowledge that Jesus died “for ME.” Let us be submissive to His will in faithful, loving service. Will YOU do this? If so, then listen to the Savior as He tells YOU: “You believe in God, believe also in Me” (Jn. 14:1); Confess “Me before men [and I] also will confess [YOU] before the angels of God” (Lk. 12:8); “Unless YOU repent YOU will…likewise perish” (Lk. 13:3); “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mk. 16:16).

Jim McDonald