What would I have done if I was with you on that last free night of your life? Would I have fallen asleep instead of praying like you asked? Would I have let my mind wander in the growing darkness? Would I have attacked the soldiers who came to take you away? Would I have killed Judas for what he did to you? Would I have denied you three times, saying that I didn't know you? Would I have just watched as they beat you, whipped you, tortured you and sentenced you to death? Would I have helped you carry that large burdensome cross up to that hill? Would I have said nothing as they nailed you hands and feet to the cross? Would I weep when I saw you die?

Yes, I would have wept. Yes, I would have spoken the harshest words as I watched my Lord, my Master, my King get nailed to the cross. Yes, I would be too scared to help you or say I knew you, that I love you with all of my heart. I would have only yelled at Judas, not killed him. I wouldn't attack the soldiers, but most likely hate them like I'd hate Judas. I would do my best to stay awake and pray for you, my Lord, my God. If I had known what was going to happen to you, I would have done my best to protect you, to save you. But I don't know if I could stand knowing what would happen to me if I took your place.

How did you find the courage to do that for me?

You were crucified and laid behind a stone in a quiet tomb. You lived only to die, rejected by everyone and forsaken by all. Like a rose, you were trampled on the ground. But you took the fall, and thought of me, thought of everyone and did it for us, so we could live with you for eternity.

I write this now to thank you, Lord of Heaven and Earth.

A/N: I've had people asking me if they can print this or e-mail it to their friends. Yes you can. You have my full permission. God bless you all. ;)