Tomorrow is Good Friday and like all Good Friday’s most churches will call upon their elders to talk about the seven words Jesus spoke from the Cross. But to us, those Seven words raise serious questions about the whole Christian experience and life. Today we will briefly, try and understand what those seven words mean to our lives in practical application, so that when we hear our elders speak tomorrow, we have a perspective relating to our own lives.
1. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)
Message: Jesus begins His final moments with a prayer of forgiveness for those who crucified Him. Despite the physical agony and emotional betrayal, He intercedes for humanity, demonstrating His boundless mercy. This prayer reflects the heart of His mission—to bring reconciliation between God and mankind.
Application: Forgiveness is not easy, especially when we are wronged. Yet, Jesus calls us to forgive, even when it feels undeserved. Are we willing to let go of bitterness and extend grace to others?
2. "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
Message: Jesus offers hope and salvation to the repentant thief, showing that redemption is available to all who turn to Him in faith. This statement underscores the inclusivity of God's grace—no one is beyond His reach.
Application: No matter our past mistakes, we can approach Jesus with a repentant heart and receive His promise of eternal life. Are we ready to trust Him with our future?
3. "Woman, here is your son... Here is your mother." (John 19:26-27)
Message: Even in His suffering, Jesus cares for His mother, ensuring she is cared for by the disciple John. This act of compassion highlights the importance of family and community.
Application: How can we show love and care for those around us, especially in times of hardship? Are we attentive to the needs of our loved ones, even in hardship?
4. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46)
Message: Jesus cries out in anguish, quoting Psalm 22. This moment reveals the depth of His suffering as He bears the weight of humanity's sin. It also fulfils prophecy, showing that even in despair, God's plan is unfolding.
Application: In moments of pain and doubt, we can cry out to God, knowing He understands our struggles. Are we willing to trust Him, even when we feel abandoned?
5. "I am thirsty." (John 19:28)
Message: Jesus expresses His physical thirst, fulfilling Scripture and revealing His humanity. This statement reminds us that He fully experienced human suffering. When the soldiers offered Him sour wine on a sponge, lifted on a hyssop branch, that act connects to the Passover, where hyssop was used to apply the blood of the lamb. Jesus, the Lamb of God, sheds His blood to save us from sin.
Application: Are we attentive to the needs of others, both physical and spiritual? How can we serve those who are in need? Do we thirst for God and His righteousness?
6. "It is finished." (John 19:30)
Message: Jesus declares the completion of His mission to redeem humanity. The debt of sin is paid in full, and the path to salvation is opened. This is a triumphant moment, marking the victory of God's plan.
Application: We can live in the freedom and victory of Christ's finished work. Are we embracing the grace and redemption He offers?
7. "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." (Luke 23:46)
Message: Jesus surrenders His life to the Father, demonstrating trust and obedience. This final statement reflects His unwavering faith and the fulfillment of His earthly mission.
Application: Are we willing to entrust our lives to God, even in the face of uncertainty? How can we live with faith and surrender to His will?
The seven words of Jesus from the cross are a testament to His love, sacrifice, and victory. They call us to forgiveness, faith, compassion, and trust. Tomorrow as we reflect on these words, may they inspire us to live lives that honor His sacrifice and share His love with the world.
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