He was wounded because of our rebellious deeds,
crushed because of our sins;
he endured punishment that made us well;
because of his wounds we have been healed. (Isaiah 53:5)
Jesus went homeless on earth to give me a residence in paradise. Refused hospitality in many towns, he ensured my permanent welcome into the New Jerusalem. And by relinquishing his rights of sonship, he legalized my adoption forever.
Splayed on the cross before every eye, Jesus silently accepted the demise that mankind deserved. He was whipped with shards, spit upon, and nailed. That is how the powers of darkness would have treated us for eternity had Jesus not taken our place.
After a lifetime of insolence and apathy, my sins filled many pages in the books of heaven. The list was to be read aloud and the images replayed before beings of all realms. But now when the books are opened, my every sin will be lined out with the red blood of Jesus. My public shame has been shifted to the Lamb of God, while his virtue flys to me.
Jesus lived a sinless life. When he was done, he took up my guilt and, though his nostrils burned at the stench, he pulled it over his head. He then laid the robe of his righteousness around my shoulders. He wore my filth, I wear his purity.
Prayer: My blessed Lord Jesus, thank you for trading places.