In Matthew’s account of the crucifixion, I want you to place yourself at the foot of the cross. As you look at the people gathered around Jesus, you will discover that each one represents a possible response to Him. The question is not simply who they were, but where you stand today.

First, consider Simon of Cyrene. He was compelled to carry Jesus’ cross because Jesus had become too weak after the brutal beating He had endured. Simon was forced into that moment, and I want you to ask yourself whether your relationship with Christ has become something you do only because others expect it. Perhaps you attend worship because of your spouse, your parents, or your children. Maybe you serve out of obligation rather than love. God is not looking for reluctant obedience. He desires a heart that willingly worships Him.

Next, look at the soldiers, the crowd, and the religious leaders. They stood closer to the cross than almost anyone else, yet they completely missed its meaning. The soldiers gambled for Jesus’ clothing while the Savior of the world was giving His life. The crowd mocked Him instead of believing Him. The religious leaders, who should have recognized the Messiah, allowed envy and pride to blind them. You can be physically close to Jesus and still be spiritually far away. Being present at worship or knowing the Scriptures means little if your heart is hardened against Christ.

Then consider the two criminals crucified beside Jesus. At first, both joined in mocking Him, but one experienced a change of heart. He admitted his own guilt, recognized Jesus’ innocence, and humbly pleaded, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Jesus responded with mercy, promising that he would be with Him in paradise. At the cross, you see that forgiveness is available to the person who comes to Christ with genuine repentance and faith. No one is beyond the reach of God’s grace when they turn to Him with a humble heart.

As you reflect on the cross, examine your own life. Are you serving Christ because you are being forced by circumstances or the expectations of others? Have you become indifferent like the soldiers or resistant like the religious leaders? Or have you come to the cross with humility, recognizing your need for the Savior and receiving the forgiveness only He can give?

The cross calls you to respond. Jesus willingly gave His life so that your sins could be forgiven. Because of His sacrifice, you are invited to hear the gospel, believe in Him, repent of your sins, confess Him as the Son of God, and be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins. If you have already taken those steps but have wandered away, God’s grace is still available as you repent and seek His forgiveness.

Before you leave the foot of the cross, make sure you do not walk away unchanged. Do not stand there out of obligation, and do not stand there with a hardened heart. Stand there as one who has been forgiven, grateful for the sacrifice Jesus made, and determined to live faithfully for the One who gave His life for you.