have a very sincere and honest question for you: Will you die for me? Please, before you respond, take a moment to think about it. Most of us, being Christians will say yes without thinking about the ramifications of our words.

So, will you die for me? If you were walking down a street one dark night, and heard my muffled cries from a nearby alley way, what would you do? Would you dash into the alley, not knowing what you might find, or who may have seen you coming? Would you rush to my aid, while remaining unaware of whether my assailant was armed or unarmed? Or, would you hesitate and wonder what you should do?

The vast majority of us, when confronted with a similar situation, would feel the urge to go help, yet stand in indecision of what to do. Some would scurry away quickly, afraid of what might happen if they were seen nearby. Others would stand in fear, knowing they should help, yet fearing for their own safety. Some would reach their decision based on the fact that they cannot possibly know the person who is crying out for help.

You don’t know what lies in wait for you down that dark alley, and whatever it is, it just might cost you your life. If you say to yourself, “Why should I put my own life at risk for a perfect stranger?”, then don’t feel alone. Most people would confront this situation with the same thoughts.

Having analyzed this scenario fully, what would you do? Honestly, you can tell me anything I want to hear, but whatever your spoken answer may be, you must understand, you cannot lie to yourself. Seriously take the time to look within yourself, and see if you can answer this question, and know that you cannot lie to yourself. Your answer to me is not important; while your answer to yourself is of tantamount importance.

When you have finally reached an understanding with yourself, then you can fully appreciate the totality of the love that Jesus held in us. He not only died for those who had stood by his side, but He also died for you…the perfect stranger for whom he had never met, and for me…whose cries can be heard by all who pass by the darkened alley way.