Reflection #2 on "You Are My King (Amazing Love)" by Newsboys  [song lyrics]

• originally released by solidsounds.org, 10/06/2003
• author: Suzy C.
• scripture reference: Matthew 26:34; Matthew 26:41; Ephesians 4:32

	From the album "Adoration: The Worship Album" (2003) Read the song lyrics...

I'm forgiven because You were forsaken

Has anybody ever let you down? They made a promise, with really good intentions, and then just didn't follow through? You know they were sincere but for some reason they failed to do what they swore they would. Well, I understand, but more importantly, so does Jesus.

All of His friends swore they would stand by Him. Listen to what Peter said:

"But Peter said to Him, 'Even though all may fall away because of You, I will never fall away'" (Matthew 26:33 NASB).

Peter meant what he said. When the soldiers came to take Jesus, Peter pulled a sword and wounded one of them before Jesus stopped him. Peter was serious about his devotion to Jesus. But in the end, like all of the other disciples, he turned and ran away. Why? Why did they do that to Jesus? Why do people do that to us? Well, Jesus explained it this way:

"The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41 NASB).

How did He respond when all His friends ran away? Well, after He suffered torture and crucifixion, after He died and rose from the dead, He went looking for these boys. He found them hiding behind a locked door and He came right through that door. But He did not come with clenched fists; He came with open arms. Jesus forgave those who deserted Him, even Peter. Have you forgiven those who have done the same to you?

"Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:32 NASB).

Jesus forgave His disciples, He forgave you of your sins, and He has called you to draw upon that forgiveness to forgive others. The song "You Are My King" expresses this very thought in four beautiful lines. Listen to them, sing them, meditate on them and let the forgiveness you have received from God move through your heart to forgive others. If you do then He really will be your king.

I'm forgiven because You were forsaken
I'm accepted, You were condemned
I'm alive and well, Your spirit is within me
Because You died and rose again

--Suzy C.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 26:34; Matthew 26:41; Ephesians 4:32