The Cross Before Me | Pastor Craig Rice | March 31st, 2024
bible reading: John 19:25-30
25 Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene.
26 When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.”
27 And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.
28 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.”
29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips.
30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
devotion:
As we stand before the cross, we're reminded of the depth of Jesus' sacrifice. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the burdens of life, just as the disciples were by the sight of their dying Savior. Yet, Jesus' final words, "It is finished," signify the completion of a divine mission to redeem humanity.
Question for reflection:
In your own life, what endings can you trust God to transform into new beginnings?