March 12

[Jesus] willingly went to the cross and paid the penalty for our sins, removing our guilt and condemnation, so that we could be united with him (Romans 6:5) and take on his nature (2 Peter 1:4). He gave up his glory and power and became a servant. He died to his own interests and looked to our needs and interests instead (Romans 15:1–3). Jesus’s sacrificial service to us has brought us into a deep union with him and he with us. And that, Paul says, is the key not only to understanding marriage but to living it. (Hardcover, pp. 45–46; paperback, pp. 41–42)

REAL MASCULINITY. One writer said that the essence of masculinity was a sacrificial protectiveness that permits life to grow and thrive. To begin with, men must sacrifice their cherished independence in order to become husbands. Then they must sacrifice much of their pride to respect their wives, listen to them, and serve them. Because so much of this is against male tendencies and patterns, it requires the strength to be weak. Christ sacrifices to win his bride, the Church, the Second Adam’s Second Eve,36 who bears his fruit into the world. In order to save and protect his bride, Jesus spared no effort and no cost. He should be the model and hero for all husbands to imitate.

Reflection: Husbands, in what ways do you inconvenience yourself in order to see your wife grow in Christ? Wives, do you appreciate and take advantage of your husband’s sacrifice in order to be a better Bride of Christ and a better wife?

Thought for prayer: Remember that Jesus was no weakling (see him throwing the money changers from the temple—John 2:13–19), yet was the gentlest servant of all (Matthew 11:28–29). If you are a husband pray for the same spirit. Pray that God would form more Christlike husbands in your church and community.