Whenever I read the story of Jesus' last week of his earthly life, I usually get so emotional about how badly he was treated by everyone leading up to his crucifixion, I sometimes forget the purpose of his last few days.

I think of how he was beaten so badly by the soldiers that dragged him through the courtyard to nail him to the cross and the immense pain he endured. It brings tears to my eyes and hurts my heart every single time as I am so moved by the sacrifice he made for us, and then I wonder why Peter and Judas, two chosen disciples, betray and deny him as they did? Of course, this always then leads me to think about how many times I've disappointed God and how he always forgives me for all my sins. He's not only a forgiving God, but he does it compassionately and gives us His unconditional love. Hope for a new start completes forgiveness. He time and time again, gives us second chances when we confess our sins and ask for repentance.

And so the circle is complete each time I read this story. I am humbled by the love he has for me and his desire to keep me close through fellowship with him and that is what I like to focus on instead of the extreme pain he endured that week. Either way, from beginning to end and all through the processing of the events that led to his death, I can't help but pause and take a moment to thank him and surrender to him for all he's done for me.