Word #7 – Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit.” Luke 23:46
Now the longest afternoon of three hours that any human being had ever experienced is about over. With all of the drama and technology of the 21st century, it is well-nigh impossible to recreate what must have been the scene of reality on this Friday afternoon.
Let’s review the list: Injustice, yes it was there. Hatred, most certainly it was in attendance. Mockery, unmistakably so. Unusual weather, yes, even the solar system was adjusted for this divine event. Physical torture and suffering were paramount. Crowd control was out of hand. Gambling and blood were common to the scene. And the worst behavior of mankind’s heart was freely exhibited. The best of Heaven met the worst of earth. If there could ever be a day full of paradox, this day contained it all.
But as is the case with every story there must come an ending. Jesus Christ, the virgin-born, fulfillment of prophecy, parent-raised, Jewish Messiah who lived 33 ½ years is now stretched out on a cruel cross. Most would say that it was a horrible day in the history of the world and to some degree it was. But God has a way of taking the mathematical minuses of life and turning them into a huge plus. While we live 21 centuries later, there is a sense in which all of us were there that afternoon. And Jesus’ stretched-out body became God’s plus sign for the spiritual deficit that every man who lives without him possesses.
As He started the first saying with the word “Father.” He recognizes that in His own strength, He has done all He can do. His mission accomplished. He now performs a sacred surrender as He commits His spirit to God. Only when a person completes their mission are they truly ready to die. Have you found your mission in life and are you working hard to complete it?
Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit.” Luke 23:46
Word #7 from the Cross
by Dave Childers
