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Seven Sayings of the Cross
Physicians and scientists who have studied the medical aspects of the crucifixion concluded that the sayings had to be short because crucifixion causes asphyxia that makes inhaling air to speak difficult and painful, especially as death approaches (Catholic Doctors on Crucifixion).
Isn't it intriguing how God combined the physical death of Jesus with short life giving phrases? It underscores the grace, mercy, and love demonstrated on the cross.
Join us as we uncover the depth of meaning in the 7 short sayings of Jesus on the cross this Easter season.
February 28: Forsaken - Mk 15:34
Jesus, the Son of God, forsaken by God? How can it be? What does Jesus mean when He asks why God would forsake him? Have you ever asked this question?
March 7: Forgive - Lk 23:34
You've heard it said, "Ignorance is bliss". Surely Jesus can't mean it's OK for us to act simply because we don't know what we're doing. No, Jesus means that forgiveness is our no matter the circumstances and grace allows him to reach out in the midst of our ignorance.
March 14: Spirit - Lk 23:46
The ultimate sign of kingdom living is that worshippers will worship in spirit and truth. Jesus demonstrates the importance of the spirit when he commits his spirit into the hands of the almighty father.
March 21: Thirsty - Jn 19:28
The contrast between the water of life offered to the woman at the well in which she would thirst no more and the "water of life" being thirsty is dramatic. As the sins of the world are thrust upon him, he thirsts for more of the Father to fill him again.
March 28: Family - Jn 19:27 (Palm Sunday)
The triumphal entry of Jesus was a moment of renewed family. This is a nation without any real leadership. This is a family without a home. And on the cross, just one week later, Jesus will make a profound revelation about this kingdom he is leading and the family relationships it involves. It's always palm Sunday in this family.
April 2: Finished - Jn 19:30 (Good Friday, 7:00 pm)
"It is finished". The disciples must have been heartbroken. Their teacher is gone. Their rabbi is done. The Son of God is dead. How can it all be finished? In this dark moment God finishes the story of redemption in a way no one could have imagined. The lamb is finally slain.
April 4: Paradise - Lk 23:43 (Easter)
Could anyone have known the gravity of that statement? Did anyone grasp the life giving announcement from the cross? "Today, you will be with me in paradise". Today, you will live. Because I die you will live. Three days from now, will they understand this moment? Do you?
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