Day 39 – Good Friday – April 18
Which of Jesus' words from the cross mean the most to you this Easter?
Good Friday is a dark day. Jesus submits Himself, God incarnate, to bear the full weight of humanity’s sin. The worst of our sinful behaviour is on display in Holy Week: injustice, hatred, mob violence, evil schemes, systemic abuse, political and religious oppression, betrayal and abandonment, shame, mocking, the physical pain and mental torment we inflict on fellow humans.
If you look closely, there is beauty and truth around Jesus, even on this darkest of days, the day of journey to the cross. Christ’s glory and humanity are on vulnerable and clear display, especially the words He speaks while dying on the cross.
Bible commentators spend countless pages exegeting deep meaning from these seven phrases from Jesus.
Today, simply read Jesus’ words, hear them, receive them. On this Good Friday, Jesus, the Word of God, the Word made flesh, may be gifting some of these words to you.
“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:24
To those crucifying Jesus
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Mark 15:35, Psalm 22:1
To God the Father
“I am thirsty.” John 19:28
To the soldiers attending Jesus
“It is finished.” John 19:30
Declared to all
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Luke 23:46
To God the Father
“Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” John 19:26
To Jesus’ mother, Mary, and to John
“Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
To one thief hanging on a cross beside Jesus
Would Jesus speak, and would we listen.
Day 40 – April 19
Where are you waiting for God to show His love or power, and He seems silent or far off?
