Day #32 - The Main Event: crucifixion

Day 32

The Main Event: crucifixion

Read: Luke 23:26-49

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The Gospels give us seven-sentences he spoke during his crucifixion. To the very last Jesus offers himself in service, forgiving his enemies, bringing a hardened criminal to salvation, caring for family. In all his suffering grace oozes from Jesus.

1.    “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34) – Jesus prays to his Father for the Jewish people and the Roman soldiers.

2.    “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43) – Are his word to the repentant thief, crucified beside him.

3.    “Woman, here is your son!”  “Here is your mother!” (John 19:26-27) – He commends Mary his mother in John's care.

4.    “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34) – As Jesus expresses in the words of Psalm 22:1 the agony of separation from God as the full weight of human sin pressed upon him.

5.    “I am thirsty” (John 19:28).

6.    “It is finished” (John 19:30).

7.    “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46).

Jesus’ crucifixion is a mystery, but it is not mysterious. While we shall never fully understand the cross in this life; at the heart of it there is mystery - “through Jesus’ death God is reconciling us to himself.” God does not require us so much to understand it as to experience it, to discover its benefits.

Ponder Point (reflect)

• In all his suffering grace oozes from Jesus

Consider (respond) 

• Within which “seven-words” is a benefit to discover today?