The Cross, The Crook & The Crown

At the cross, we see the ultimate picture of love. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, carried not a crook of wood but the burden of our sin upon His shoulders. The shepherd’s crook represents guidance, protection, and care, and at Calvary, as He laid down His life for His sheep. The cross was not a defeat but the greatest act of shepherding we’ve known.

The Shepherd of our lives, Jesus, who gave His life, also rose to reign as King. The crown of thorns that pierced His brow gave way to the eternal crown of glory. In this, we see both His humility and His majesty, His suffering and His triumph.

Scripture reminds us, “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8 ESV). The Shepherd’s crook and the King’s crown meet in Christ alone.

Quote

The cross reveals the Shepherd; the resurrection crowns the King.

Prayer

Lord, may I live in the light of Your sacrifice and victory. Amen.

Action Point

Reflect on the cross today and thank Jesus for both His shepherding love and His kingly reign.

Copyright notices

(ESV) Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Use in other publications.

You can freely use this devotional personally, in your Church or Ministry, when including this notice.   Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.imani.org