Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
 
Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?
Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?
 
Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
 
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?
Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?

First published in William Barton's Old Plantation Hymns (1899)

We end where we started - with the lyrics of a song. They invite us into the heart of the Passion, a time of great sorrow, great sacrifice, and great love. They remind us that the events leading to the cross were not just historical moments but are connected to each of us. "Were you there?" asks us to reflect on our own place in the story of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection.

The first verse brings us face to face with the crucifixion and calls us not only to recall the horrific physical reality of the cross but also recognise how our sin led Jesus to that place of suffering. We may not have been physically present, but spiritually we stand before the cross realising the profound truth: he died for us.

As the hymn continues, it leads us through his crucifixion - his nails, his death, his burial - and ultimately his victory over sin and death. We are there in the text, and we are there in his heart.

We remember the nails were not what held him to the cross; his love for humanity did that. The stone rolled over the tomb of Jesus was not a symbol of finality; it was the sealing of a moment before something utterly miraculous. The resurrection is a promise that death is defeated and has no hold on us; one day we will rise with him. To ask, "Were you there when He rose?" is to invite us to claim our place in the resurrection - alive in Christ, forever transformed. Not just believers in a future hope, but recipients of a present reality which changes everything about us.

Let's pray:
Lord Jesus, I tremble at the thought of your sacrifice, the horror of the cross, and the victory of the empty tomb. Help me stand with you in your suffering and rejoice with you in your resurrection. This Easter, help me experience the reality of your great love for me and help me live in the truth of the resurrection hope and death-defeating power you have given me. Thank you for the cross, Jesus. Thank you for the cross. Amen.

Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realise that it was Jesus. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). John 20:11-16, NIV

I have always loved the story of Mary in the garden searching in the dark for her friend, convinced his body had been stolen, meeting the resurrected Jesus, mistaking him for a gardener. There’s a thread linking this garden to the Garden of Eden. A reminder of Jesus’ description of his Father as the gardener.

The longing and despair Mary must have felt: she could do nothing for Jesus as he was dying now she can’t even honour him by tending his dead body. And the loneliness. There is no-one else at the tomb; no-one to comfort her as she grieves. 

The part that compels me to read it again and again is the moment Jesus says her name. Mary. Some have described this as the finest sermon ever preached. Just the one word. Mary. But I don’t really see it as a sermon. I see it as the only word that needed to be said by The Lover to his beloved. Jesus’ voice, his tone, the use of her name, would have given Mary all the reassurance, hope and comfort she needed. And those things led her to feel such joy she couldn’t contain herself. Jesus told her to go but she would have gone anyway! She would have run from the garden to tell the others what had happened so they would feel the same way whether the Lord had instructed her or not!

Today listen to the Lord as he says your name.

Let's pray
Lord, would you help me hear you call my name today. Remind me how much I mean to you, how greatly I am loved. As I listen, would you fill me with reassurance, hope and comfort. Let the joy I feel drive me out of the garden so I can tell others to listen to your voice, they can hear what has happened, and feel the same way. In your lovely name, I ask it. Amen.

He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Matthew 28:6, KJV

Salome was a devoted mother and follower of Jesus, who, alongside her husband Zebedee, raised two faithful sons chosen to be Christ’s disciples. She interceded on behalf of her sons, asking for positions at Jesus' side. Throughout his ministry, Salome faithfully tended to Jesus’ needs and stood by him during His suffering.

Salome’s faithfulness didn’t waver. She remained steadfast even as she witnessed the mocking crowd and the brutal crucifixion, staying by Jesus until his final breath. After his death, she joined Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene to anoint his body, undeterred by the grief that engulfed them. It was these women who discovered the empty tomb, becoming the first witnesses of Christ’s resurrection.

Salome’s life illustrates the profound fruit of faithfulness. Her actions not only impacted her sons, James and John but also displayed the lasting power of a life fully dedicated to God. Her story teaches us that our decisions can affect eternity.

Let’s pray
Lord, help me follow Salome’s example of unwavering faithfulness and steadfastness in all circumstances. Remind me to intercede boldly for my family and friends. Help me impact others positively and eternally as I walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth” Isaiah 53:9, NIV

Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and upright man, plays a significant role in the burial of Jesus, despite being part of the same religious group that sought his crucifixion. Joseph, secretly a follower of Jesus, stepped forward to claim Jesus’ body, defying the risks to his reputation and standing. His courage to publicly identify with Jesus at that moment marked a powerful shift. Alongside Nicodemus, the Pharisee who had previously visited Jesus at night to discuss God’s Kingdom, Joseph took responsibility for Jesus' burial. They wrapped the body in strips of linen and applied a mixture of myrrh and aloe. However, since it was the Day of Preparation - the day before the Jewish Sabbath - and late in the day, Joseph hurriedly placed Jesus in his own tomb. This fulfilled the prophecy from Isaiah and further affirmed Jesus as the Messiah.

The actions of Joseph and Nicodemus remind us that following Jesus often requires us to step out of the shadows and take a stand, even when the cost is great.

Let’s pray
Lord, give me the courage to stand for you, even when it’s difficult. Help me to live my faith openly and work it out in tangible ways for the expansion of your kingdom and to the benefit of others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." John 6:68 NIV

I couldn’t stop with just one post on Peter!

Peter’s life after the resurrection of Jesus is a powerful example of unwavering faith and courage in the face of hardship. Once a man who stumbled in his own fear and doubts, Peter was transformed by the grace and forgiveness of Jesus. His loyalty to Christ became evident as he took up the mantle of leadership in the early church, preaching the Gospel with boldness and conviction.

When Peter and John were arrested for healing in Jesus' name, Peter didn’t shrink back. Instead, he embraced the Holy Spirit's power and proclaimed the truth before rulers and authorities, showing that his faith was not a matter of words but of unwavering action. He knew the cost of discipleship and faced it head-on, sharing the message of Christ even at great personal risk.

For the next 35 years, Peter remained steadfast, enduring suffering and persecution, yet never wavering in his commitment to the Gospel. He became more like Christ in his actions—healing the sick, praying for others, and teaching about God’s grace. Peter’s journey was one of growth, from the brash fisherman to a mature believer who reflected the heart of Christ in all he did. His life was ultimately a testament to the power of Christ to transform, strengthen, and guide his followers.

Let’s pray
Thank you, Lord, for the example of Peter’s faith and growth. Help me to follow your call, no matter the challenges. Holy Spirit, help me grow more like Jesus sharing his love and demonstrating his power every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, “Feed my sheep." John 21:17 NIV

Peter's story is one of transformation from an ordinary fisherman to one of the most influential leaders of the early church. Initially, Peter was just a simple man from a small village with no formal training in the law or ministry. But when he encountered Jesus, his life was forever changed. Peter’s natural impulsiveness and boldness made him a spokesperson for the disciples, asking questions that often led to profound teachings from Jesus. His willingness to speak up, even when unsure, highlighted both his love for Jesus and his need for Jesus’ guidance.

Despite his devotion, Peter’s humanity is clear in his denial of Christ during the moments of crisis, driven by fear of consequences. The bitterness of his tears, however, revealed the depth of his regret and love for Jesus. And, in the aftermath of his failure, Jesus met him with grace, reminding Peter that forgiveness and restoration are always possible. Jesus even ensured that Peter knew he was forgiven by sending a special message through the angels at the tomb.

Peter's life reminds us that while we are imperfect, Jesus offers restoration and wholeness and sees our potential. His grace is greater than our failures, and his love is unconditional. No matter how far we fall, there is always a path back to him.

Let’s pray
Lord, thank you for the example of Peter’s life and for showing me the power of forgiveness. Help me to trust in your grace and to know that with your love and strength I will rise again when I stumble. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.’ The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, ‘If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.’ There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the Jews. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!’ Luke 23:35-39, NIV

The unrepentant thief, hanging beside Christ, stands as a stark reminder of the power of choices. Even in the face of imminent death, he clung to bitterness and defiance. He mocked Christ, rejecting the mercy offered to him, refusing to acknowledge the divine grace alongside his own deserved punishment.

How often do we, like him, harden our hearts against grace? We cling to resentment, holding on to the comfort of our pain, unwilling to face our need for forgiveness. Lent calls us to examine those places within where we resist change, where we choose darkness over light.

His story serves as a warning. Even at the edge of eternity, the choice remains: to accept or reject the outstretched hand of salvation. Let's not waste time. Let's turn toward the One who offers redemption, even to the last breath.

Let's pray:
Lord, help me to soften my heart and recognise the grace you freely offer. Open my eyes to see where I have clung to bitterness and pain, and teach me to embrace forgiveness and mercy. In this Lenten season, may I choose your light over the shadows of resentment and defiance, and may I always be ready to receive the restoration you offer. Amen.

Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. " Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:42-43, NIV

Amid unimaginable pain, as death draws near, a remarkable plea emerges. As a thief is about to enter eternity, he utters a prayer for salvation: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom!" At first glance, it might not sound like a typical salvation prayer, but it truly is. He recognised Jesus as the Messiah, acknowledged his sin, and longed for eternal life and a place in the coming kingdom.

And there is no delay between his plea and his redemption. Jesus responds immediately, saying, "Today, you will be with me in paradise." This man could offer no good works, could not be baptised, take communion, read the Scriptures, or even learn about God’s word. There was no time for a gradual transformation. His salvation was instant, conditioned solely on repentance and faith. He was saved in that very moment and passed directly into glory.

However, salvation was not universal that day. There were two criminals; only one was saved. "One thief was saved so there would always be hope; but only one, so there would be no presumption." The message is clear: salvation is offered to all, but it is not automatic for everyone. The thief's redemption was a gift of grace, illustrating that salvation depends on faith and repentance—not on works or time spent.

Let’s pray
Lord, thank you for the incredible gift of grace that I see in the story of the thief on the cross. Thank you for offering salvation to all, no matter our past or our circumstances. Help me to live in the light of that grace, knowing that my salvation is secure in you, not in my works but in your mercy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, 'Surely he was the Son of God!'" Matthew 27:54, NIV

As a centurion, it’s your job to stand guard and oversee the entire proceedings. You've been assigned to many crucifixions before, and witnessing excruciating death is a routine part of your duty. But this one feels completely different. You've never witnessed anything like this before. How could this man, in immense pain, and facing the end, find the strength to forgive his accusers and mockers? Who else could speak with such authority and promise a dying thief a place in paradise? Did that man choose the exact moment to die after committing his spirit into the Father's hands? It seems so.

Luke tells us part of the conclusion that the centurion came to: he "praised God and said, 'Surely this was a righteous man.'" But Matthew offers even more insight into the centurion’s response. He says he recognises who Jesus truly is.

"Surely he was the Son of God." The encounter with Jesus led to salvation. One thief was saved, and, likely, one centurion was as well. What incredible stories they will share in Heaven!

Why not ask Jesus for fresh eyes to see him as he truly is today?

Let’s pray
Holy Spirit, grant me eyes to see Jesus as the Son of God, full of grace and truth, love and mercy. Transform my heart as I fix my eyes on Jesus, and draw me into deeper relationship with him. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:25-27, NIV

Mary standing at the foot of the cross, embodies the deepest of sorrows. Her heart, pierced with grief, mirrors the physical wounds of her son. She witnesses the ultimate sacrifice, her love tested beyond measure. In her silent suffering, we see the profound cost of love—the pain of bearing witness to injustice and the helplessness of seeing her child endure such agony. Mary’s strength is not in defiance but in her unwavering presence. She stands as a testament to faith amidst despair, accepting God’s divine plan with a heart broken yet resolute. Lent calls us to reflect on Mary’s sorrow, to find strength in her quiet endurance, and to trust in God’s love even in the face of immense suffering.

Prayer:
Lord, as I reflect on Mary’s sorrow help us to stand firm in faith when I face my own trials. Give me the strength to endure, trusting in your plan, even when I don’t understand. May I learn from Mary's quiet courage and find comfort in knowing that your love is with me through every moment of suffering. Draw me closer to you. Amen.