Blood Shed........ Not Spilled

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Colosians 1:19 -20 (New International Version)

One Sunday morning, a woman, who had not been attending our church for very long, sat directly in front of me. We had reached the communion segment of our worship service. Our church uses trays of little individual plastic communion cups. As this woman took a cup, it slipped from her hand spilling the contents on her clothing. She appeared quite embarrassed as she passed the tray to the person next to her and attempted to wipe the stain with a tissue. I felt so sorry for her. I wanted to tap her on the shoulder and tell her that it was okay. I knew that would most likely make things worse.

“Why did that have to happen to her, Lord?” I silently prayed.

It was as if the Lord Jesus were sitting right next to me whispering in my ear.

“As a lesson for you my dear one… a reminder of my plan. Don’t you see? My blood was never spilled. Spilled blood would have been an accident. My blood was poured out intentionally. Spilled blood would have left the stain of sin. My shed blood washes away all stains and leaves you righteous in my sight… white and pure as snow.”

I silently bowed my head and thanked the Lord for the lesson learned that morning from that tiny cup that was spilled and the precious blood of Christ that was poured out, both for me.

Blood shed, not spilled
Your love outpoured
Redeeming me forevermore
Life given, not taken
By choice you died
A cleansing stream ran from your side

I see your eyes with love gaze down
I see on your head, the cruel crown
Of thorns that cut your holy brow
I hear your words, ‘Forgive her now’

No condemnation do I fear
As to your cross I draw near

‘Twas meant to be
Blood shed for me
Humbly I bow
In remembrance now

-Skywatcher 2005