Good Friday: It is finished
Today's focusAt the cross Jesus cares for his mother, thirsts, and then declares 'It is finished' — the work of salvation completed.
Read
25Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! 27Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. 28After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. 29Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. 30When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
Reflection
Even in the agony of the cross, Jesus looks upon those he loves with deep compassion. When he sees his mother and the disciple "whom he loved," he does not let his own suffering prevent him from caring for their future. By saying, "Behold thy mother," he ensures his mother has a home and a son to care for her. This moment shows us that Jesus understands our human needs and the importance of our earthly relationships, even as he performs the greatest work of eternity.
As the end nears, Jesus says, "I thirst," showing the reality of his physical suffering before he receives the vinegar. He knows that "all things were now accomplished" and that every scripture is being fulfilled in his body. With his final breath, he declares, "It is finished." This is not a cry of defeat, but a shout of completion. The work of salvation is done. He has carried the burden to the very end, and you can rest knowing that nothing more needs to be added to his perfect sacrifice.
AI-written reflection on the passage above. Let Scripture itself be the main thing.
Reflect
What does 'It is finished' mean for the guilt, striving or fear you have been carrying?
Pray
Lord Jesus, on the cross you said, 'It is finished.' Thank you that you completed everything needed for my salvation. I lay down my striving and rest in your finished work.