Embracing the Cross
As Andrew was brought toward the place of execution, he saw, from afar off, the cross prepared for him. Instead of the fear that might be expected, fervent love for Jesus rose up in his heart. He cried out, “O cross, most welcome and long looked for! With a willing mind, I joyfully come to you, being the disciple of Him who hung on you.” As he neared the cross he said, “The nearer I come to the cross, the nearer I come to God; and the farther I am from the cross, the farther I remain from God.”
Final Instructions
For three days, the apostle hung on the cross. As long as he could move his tongue, he instructed all who stood nearby, encouraging them, “Remain steadfast in the word and doctrine which you have received, instructing one another, that you may dwell with God in eternity, and receive the fruit of His promises.”
Committing His Spirit
After three days, the Christians asked the governor to take Andrew down from the cross and release him to them. But Andrew, hearing their plans, cried out, “O Lord Jesus Christ! Don’t let Your servant, who hangs here on the cross for Your name’s sake, be released to dwell again among men! Please receive me, O my Lord, my God! You I have known, You I have loved, to You I cling, You I desire to see, and in You I am what I am.” Having spoken these words, he committed his spirit into the hands of his heavenly Father.
“I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting God’s applause! Depend on it, He’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me but by everyone eager for His coming.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
Date: 7th October 2023
Martyr: Andrew, Peter’s brother
Location: Greece, 66 AD
Source: Jesus Freaks
Author: DC Talk and The Voice of Martyrs
Suffering Saturday 059
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