The Mississippi River is one of the largest rivers in the world and is the largest in the U.S. This river has become a vital source of life in our country, yet it begins as a small trickle in northern Minnesota. It reminds me of another river—one that gives us life as believers—the Crimson River.

One author wrote of the crimson river: “The crimson river began as a single drop of blood that flowed down Jesus’ back as a Roman soldier brought down his cruel whip. With each lash, another drop mixed with the first. These drops formed a trickle as the crown of thorns was driven into Jesus’ brow. As cruel fists struck His face, as His beard was pulled, the trickle grew stronger. As Jesus dragged the cross toward Golgotha, then as the soldiers drove the nails through Jesus’ hands and His feet, they raised the cross high...and the trickle began a stream.”

“For six long hours, Jesus hung between Heaven and Earth, between God and Man, the Lamb of God dying for the sins of the world. The stream ran red and strong. Jesus suffered horrible pain and the stream flowed...The sun grew dark as Jesus bore our sins. Then came that decisive moment, having born our sins and paid their full price, He rose up and uttered those fateful words, ‘It is finished.’ At that moment, the stream became a river—A river of mercy and grace, a river of forgiveness, a life-giving, sin-forgiving, forever living river of love flowing from the heart of God to all...”

Let that truth sink in. Jesus washed you from your sins with His own blood. What an amazing thought! Whenever you feel discouraged, think of this: Jesus loves you right now. He loves you constantly. You can have peace knowing that every stain of your past, present, and future has been cleansed by the crimson river of grace that flows from Calvary.