When Jesus had received the wine, he said, “It is finished.” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

John 19:30

Of all the seven last words, the words, “It is finished” sound more like words of self-reflection than any others. They are not like the interactive words spoken to Mary and John; neither are they like the reconciling words spoken to the repentant thief; nor, it seems, are they like the words of anguish and committal addressed to the Father. Instead, these words seem to be those of a man who, at the point of dying, looks back at his living to see it as a unified whole. He has come to do the will of the One who sent him. 

Here are some thoughts and questions for your consideration this week:
  • Can you look back on your life and see a pattern? Can you see how God’s will has been at work in it? 
  • Are there some specific aspects to your life that you can look back on and say, “It is finished,” and pray in thanksgiving? 
  • How does the example of the fidelity of Jesus touch you? 
Sixth Week of Lent (Holy Week): The Seventh Word – “It is finished.”
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