He Took Our Place

From Jay Hanson

You may have seen in the news the impact of the partial government shutdown, including long TSA lines at airports. Some reports have even highlighted people hiring others to stand in line for them.

It’s a small but telling picture of something deeper—we all know what it means to want someone to take our place.

Holy Week reminds us that Jesus did exactly that.

From Palm Sunday to Maundy Thursday to Easter morning, we see a Savior who steps into our place—not in a line, but on a cross. In doing so, He redefines leadership, reveals the depth of God’s love, and shows us what true forgiveness looks like.

Jesus does not lead from a distance. He does not ask us to bear what He Himself is unwilling to carry. Instead, He walks the road to the cross on our behalf. He takes on our sin, our brokenness, and our burden—and in exchange, offers us grace, forgiveness, and new life.

As we move through this Holy Week, I am praying for each of you across South Georgia.

Pastors, I am praying for you to proclaim the Gospel with clarity, conviction, and joy during this sacred season.

Church members, I encourage you to pray for your pastors and come expectant—believing that God desires to meet you in fresh and powerful ways

Easter is one of the most sacred and significant moments in the life of the Church. It is a privilege to serve alongside you in this season and to witness what God is doing in and through our local churches.

May you have a blessed Holy Week and a joyful Easter.