“No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.  ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.  ‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” (John 3:13-17) The words are very familiar to most of us.  We learned them as children and we’ve heard multiple sermons upon them. One can still see them at secular sporting events.  Yes, very familiar words; perhaps too familiar.  If so, take a moment and read them again. Although we have just begun our Lenten journey, we behold this week the very end of this long road.  We see the cross and the dying man upon it.  We see him lifted up as if we are attempting to return back heaven’s most precious gift.  We lift him in order to condemn and humiliate.  That is the end of our road, but it is not the end of Jesus’ path.  Regardless of our motivations, our Lord accepts the cross and from it, offer us forgiveness.  The cross is the end of our journey because there is no greater insight, no greater revelation than the dying face of Jesus, offering love and healing to those who would destroy him.  Who do you know who needs to hear this again?  Perhaps, it is you.  Have a great week!