Even the most hardened person would not fail to be moved by the images of the crucifixion. The movie “Passion of the Christ” took the visuals to a graphic and disturbing level. It would be so easy to see the Jesus figure as a victim of incredible cruelty. But victims can’t help others.

In Matthew’s account of Jesus’ last days, Jesus is never portrayed as a victim. Jesus is the author, director and producer of the Easter events. His was a purposeful death. Jesus could have escaped on many occasions. Jesus chose the time and He orchestrated the places. He was at pains for His disciples and all subsequent generations to understand the true meaning of His sacrifice.

It was a substitution. He took our place He bore the wrath of God and felt the desolation of a broken relationship with His father. He did it so that justice would be done and forgiveness would be available to all of us. He victoriously solved the problems of a fallen humanity.

Stephen Semenchuk