For those of you who are maybe questioning the Why of Easter. Mother and Son, Chelcie and James Cowan share a great perspective from Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church. We pray this brings to you not only answers to the why of Easter but the hope of Jesus that is found through his sacrifice for all of us.
Devotionals By Us for Us
The Why?
Devotional by Chelci and James Cowan
Read 1 Corinthians 1: 18-31
In this section of Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church, Paul declares that Christ crucified is the power and wisdom of God. In a culture that prized honor and power, a crucified Savior seemed like the ultimate contradiction. Crucifixion was shameful; reserved for slaves, rebels, and the lowest of criminals.
Why, then, would God choose for Jesus to die on the cross for us? His death upon the cross exposes our inability to save ourselves. Human wisdom says climb higher, try harder; you need to prove yourself. The gospel says that we cannot; Christ already did.
The cross dismantles self-reliance and invites dependence. God intentionally chooses what the world considers weak, lowly, and foolish in order to display His glory. It is not because weakness is impressive, but because it creates space for His strength. When success cannot be explained by talent or status, God alone receives the glory.
James’ (age 10) thoughts here on verse 25: God has the advantage no matter what, so you should always trust Him with your problems. We should trust Him just as an injured sheep trusts in their shepherd to keep them safe.
Salvation was never meant to be earned, achieved, or impressed into existence. It is a gift of grace. At the foot of the cross, resumes don’t matter. Status does not matter. Our striving does not matter. The only thing that matters is Christ.
Jesus became for us wisdom from God. He is our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. Everything we need spiritually is found in Him. We don’t manufacture righteousness, we receive it. We don’t perfect ourselves into holiness; we grow in what He has already secured.
The cross becomes our daily reminder to live differently. We can let go of comparison. We can stop striving for applause. We can serve quietly, and love sacrificially, because our identity is anchored in Christ.
In a world that chases platforms and polish, God still works through
surrendered hearts. James (age 10) reminds us to think of how God looked at David’s heart when he was anointed by Samuel. “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
Prayer: Lord, thank You that my salvation rests not on my wisdom or strength, but on Christ crucified. Guard my heart from pride and self-reliance. Teach me to depend fully on You. Use my ordinary life to display Your extraordinary grace. May all my confidence and boasting be in Jesus alone, Amen.
Thoughts from the Edges 
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