John 19:30
When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished!” Then, bowing his head, he gave up his spirit.
Dear Lord Jesus,
That moment on the cross seemed like your end when you gave up your spirit, but it was only a beginning. You cried out it was finished; all the Old Testament promises pointing to a Savior were completed, and you fulfilled all the Old Testament laws completely. You suffered the punishment for all our sins, the separation from your heavenly Father that was ended. Death was the last to be defeated; it was finished, and death was done as you gave up your spirit. Unlike us, when we face our earthly end, we have no say when our heart last beats, but you willingly gave up your spirit to finish off death. It was not the end but only the beginning; you won the forgiveness for all sins. Satan is now powerless, and you destroyed death. So we say with Paul, “Where oh death is your victory, where oh death is your sting?” Many were standing there thinking that your death was the end, even your disciples, but it was your victory because the grave could not hold you.
Lord, many will solemnly come together today remembering what you faced: false charges, mockery, beatings, scourging, the crown of thorns, the nails, and your dying; this was for all our sins. You are the sinless Son of God who died for us, and tonight, we remember your work in church services worldwide; how, on the sixth day, you finished your work to rest, and it was very good. Thank you for all you have done for us. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
“It is finished!” Jesus Christ