Forgiveness: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34) In His infinite compassion, even in the midst of excruciating pain, Jesus pleads for forgiveness for those who have crucified Him. This demonstrates the depth of His love and His desire for reconciliation. It teaches us the power of forgiveness, urging us to emulate His example by extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us, regardless of the magnitude of their offense.
A Paradise Promise: "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43) In this word, Jesus offers hope and salvation to the repentant thief crucified beside Him. Despite the darkness of the moment, Jesus assures him of the promise of eternal life. This reminds us that as long as we have breath in our bodies it is never too late to turn to God, and His mercy knows no bounds. No matter how far we may have strayed, we can always find redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.
Adoption: "Woman, behold your son.. Behold your mother." (John 19:26-27) Even as He hangs in agony, Jesus demonstrates His care for His mother, Mary, and entrusts her to the care of His beloved disciple, John. This word illustrates the importance of family and community bonds, emphasizing our responsibility to care for one another, especially in times of need. It also highlights the significance of Mary in the life of the Church, as a model of faith and discipleship. She was a woman of a pierced heart and yet God did not leave her abandon.
Forsaken: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46) In this cry of anguish, Jesus experiences the depths of human suffering and abandonment. He takes upon Himself the weight of our sin and separation from God, enduring the ultimate separation so that we may be reconciled with the Father. This word serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone, for Christ has experienced our pain and offers us His presence and comfort.
I Thirst: "I thirst." (John 19:28) In His physical thirst, Jesus demonstrates His humanity, experiencing the same basic needs and desires as any of us. Yet, His thirst goes beyond the physical; it is a thirst for the souls of humanity, a longing for reconciliation and salvation. As we reflect on this word, may we be reminded of our spiritual thirst and seek fulfillment in the living water that only Christ offers us.
It Is Finished: "It is finished." (John 19:30) With these words, Jesus declares the completion of His earthly mission – the work of redemption is accomplished. Through His death on the cross, Jesus has triumphed over sin and death, offering salvation to all who believe in Him. This word invites us to rest in the finished work of Christ, knowing that we need do nothing to earn God's love and grace; it is freely given to us through Christ's sacrifice.
His Death: "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." (Luke 23:46) In His final breath, Jesus surrenders Himself completely to the will of the Father, entrusting His spirit into God's hands. This word embodies the essence of faith and submission, as Jesus models perfect obedience and trust in the Father's plan. It serves as a profound example for us to follow, as we surrender our lives and wills to God, trusting in His faithfulness and providence.
Conclusion: As we contemplate the seven last quotes of Jesus, let us be transformed by their profound significance and power. May we be inspired to live lives of forgiveness, hope, compassion, and faith, following in the footsteps of our Savior. And may the memory of Christ's sacrificial love on the cross continue to strengthen and sustain us on our journey of faith. Amen.
Here the message on TikTok