There are few guys, alive or dead, who can get after me like Jonathan Edwards. The 18th Century Pastor is always throwing strikes when I am in the box. I love it.
Here is a quote that is resounding in my mind like a personal soundtrack. It is from his sermon entitled God Glorified in Man’s Dependence.
He gave him to dwell amongst us; he gave him to us incarnate, or in our nature; and in the like though sinless infirmities. He gave him to us in a low and afflicted state; and not only so, but as slain, that he might be a feast for our souls.
The greatness of the gift of Christ is seen in his value as the beloved Son of God. Then this valuable one is given to us. We who are rebels. And further, he bears our nature. He identifies with us and us with him. Consider the greatness of this gift.
But, it goes further, says Edwards. He was slain for us, so that he might be a feast for our souls. He was crucified that he might become the supreme delight of our very beings! His death is meant to unfasten our clinging claws from the driftwood and vapor of this world and instead fasten firm to his righteous garments. We cling to him with humble delight because he is infinitely valuable. He satisfies our weary longing. He is indeed a feast for our hungry souls! What grace! What a gift! What a Savior!
