Several months ago, I found myself at the center of a medical emergency. For the first time in my life, rather than being a blood donor, it was vital to my survival that I become a blood recipient.
In the following weeks as I recovered from surgery, I began to process what had taken place. I was overwhelmed with gratefulness to the people who had taken time to voluntarily donate the blood that sustained my life.
We know that without blood no person or animal can survive, because blood is the vehicle that carries oxygen to every cell in our body.
While reflecting on my experience, I realized how fortunate I had been to receive prompt medical treatment with a “second chance” at life. My thoughts turned to the Bible and the significance of the blood of Jesus.
I have believed in Jesus for many years, but had never clearly understood why it was necessary for Jesus' blood to be spilled, so I could go on living after my human body dies. I now understand that Jesus voluntarily became the blood donor for the entire human race, so we could have the same relationship with God, the Father, that Adam and Eve had before they chose to eat the forbidden fruit.
The blood I received at the hospital sustained my physical life. The blood of Jesus, infused in us through faith, gives eternal life. It carries His oxygen that breathes life into our spirit, making it alive. It is up to each of us to decide whether we will receive the free gift of Jesus' blood, thereby gaining a “second chance" at life, eternal life.
If you hear someone remark that the Christian faith is such a "bloody religion” think about the life-giving properties of hemoglobin and that without blood there is no life.
I hope that you, too, will take the time to examine the significance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Choose Jesus! Choose Life!
