There Is Life In The Blood

We could always tell when my mother needed a blood transfusion. Closer to the end of her life, a good indicator of what was going on inside of her was evident by the blood. Platelet counts and white blood cell numbers were something I was paying close attention to. When she would start to feel worse, more tired and flat out sick, we all knew a transfusion would make her feel better.

And it did.


At that time, I was recording everything...how she felt, what she looked like and what she did. I remember going to the hospital with her on one particular day for a blood transfusion and getting to spend over 5 hours with her while it happened. I bought gifts for my children in the gift shop, I sat out in the lobby talking (and crying) to friends on the phone while she slept and I got to sit right next to her with my feet up on the bed and just watch her.

I brought my camera that day and asked her questions about getting a transfusion. She was fascinated with blood donors.

“When I lie there and look at that bag of blood, all I can wonder is, who’s blood is it? Is it a tall person or short? Is she a black woman or is he a hispanic man? Are they an angel? They must be, to give me their blood.” She said.

 An angel, yes indeed. The blood she would receive would give her breath, give her energy and fill her with life.


 There is life in the blood.





The Passion Week is here. This is a week I have a lot of trouble with every year. For any Christ follower, I suspect it’s difficult as much as it is comforting and humbling and amazing. My emotions surrounding the events that took place to kill Jesus are so very complicated. I can barely speak of them, let alone watch them (Cue anxiety for Sunday’s finale here History Channel).

In 2004, when Mel Gibson’s movie, The Passion Of The Christ, was released, I ran to the theatre excited to see it. When the movie was over, I couldn't move. I was trembling at the reality of an inhumane slaughter of an innocent man, and not just any man. I cried over the destruction inflicted upon Him, it was no standard crucifixion, if there is such a thing.

The Passion Of The Christ

I haven't watched it again since. There is no need, the images are forever ingrained.

The blood shed was reprehensible.

But there is life in that blood.

This week is difficult to understand. Jesus himself, wondered if there were any other way, asking God to remove this cup from him, but only if it were in His will. Jesus confessed that the “spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Mark 14:38).

The bloodshed was necessary. The crucifixion was necessary and The Resurrection was the plan.

The Bible is clear that living a “good life” is not enough. Romans 3:23 tells us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” If I based my salvation on my own merit, I wouldn't even make it to the gates to beg for the chance to grovel at the feet of The Lord.

“There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which me must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

“God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8.

I cannot begin to explain everything to anyone who asks...because I simply do not have the understanding of it all or all of the answers to satisfy.




What I do know, however, is that there is life in the blood.

Rock, Paper, Scissors, Jesus

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Several months ago, while driving my wee ones to school, I heard Shelby and Hayden in the backseat playing Rock, Paper, Scissors. I’ve heard everything thrown into that game. My son likes to use laser, and point his finger straight like a sword. I’m not sure what laser conquers, but it seems to work for them. I’ve heard them also use “bomb.” I’m assuming a bomb would defeat all of the other three, hands down.

Unless of course, the paper had instructions on how to defuse a bomb.


I never ask, because it’s hilarious watching them make up their own rules to the game. But, recently, a tool was thrown in that made me laugh out loud.

Jesus.

I had suddenly heard.. “Rock, Paper, Scissors....JESUS!” Shelby laughed as she had made the sign of Jesus by placing her arms straight out, good ol’ crucifixion style.

I didnt just laugh, I think I nearly wet myself. I listened and watched as my children then refused to use any other tool. Both of them were shouting...

“Rock, Paper, Scissors, Jesus!
Rock, Paper, Scissors, Jesus!
Rock, Paper, Scissors, Jesus!”

“Hey Guys,” I said, “One of you is going to have to use something other than Jesus if you want to continue playing the game.”

“But Mom, Jesus will always win. If I use anything else, I’ll lose.” Shelby said, still laughing while playing the game.

I let them continue without interruption because the reality of what she just said is something I would never want to take away from her.


I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble -Psalm 46:1

In a simple game in the back of the van, my children were shouting to each other how mighty and strong God is.

Nothing trumps Jesus.