7 Reasons Jesus’ Sacrifice on the Cross Can Silence Our Fear and Anxiety

Have you been feeling crippled by anxiety lately? Have you felt the subtle grip of fear or overwhelming waves of panic? If so, you are not alone. Statistics say that anxiety is on the rise. 

Jesus often taught using images and metaphors. For instance, he employed the images of a shepherd, vine, sower, and vineyard owner to help his followers understand who God is. However, no image is more powerful in helping us understand than the cross.

Belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is a central tenet of the Christian faith. During Lent and Holy Week, we reflect on these historical events and hope to understand the power of Christ’s sacrifice better. Its power met me face to face when I saw Michelangelo’s “Pieta” at the Vatican. Michelangelo captures Jesus’ lifeless body resting upon Mary’s lap with such emotion that I start crying. The ancient, cold stone captures a burning truth that can meet you in your trial today. Here are seven reasons why Jesus’ sacrifice holds power:

1. Jesus' sacrifice was spotless.

Perhaps you have heard someone ask, “Why did Jesus have to die? Why did the Father require such a gory sacrifice to reconcile us back to him?” Jesus, the spotless lamb, had to die a sacrificial death to demonstrate that he was the fulfillment of Old Testament law. 

Like in the old days, the faithful would no longer be required to sacrifice repetitive burnt offerings before the Lord to be reconciled to him. 

Hebrews 10:10 reads, “For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time” (NLT). 

Jesus replaces the Old Covenant with the New Covenant, which is sealed in Jesus’ blood and reconciles us to God. His once-and-for-all sacrifice on the cross is that powerful! Further, it means we do not need to be anxious or strive; instead, Christ achieves our salvation, and we only have to believe.

Click Here for the Other 6 Reasons on Crosswalk

I packed this article with scripture! Want more Holy Week inspiration? You can read my "Beautiful Easter Prayer for Resurrection Sunday,""Easter Dinner Prayers and Blessings to Pray with Your Family," and my devotion "High-Flying Easter Hope."