For everything there is a season…
A time to be born and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance…Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
This is the great mystery of God’s continual work of renewal in this world and in our lives. Jesus goes before us to show us the way.
For the joy set before him, Jesus endured the cross, disregarding its shame (Hebrews 12).
Perhaps something is dying away in your life right now. The grief may be unspeakable and unbearable. As you are able, allow Jesus to minister to you in this death and wait with him to instill hope that new life will come. Always, he walks with us toward wholeness.
John 19:28-37 (NLT)
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.
31 It was the day of preparation, and the Jewish leaders didn’t want the bodies hanging there the next day, which was the Sabbath (and a very special Sabbath, because it was Passover week). So they asked Pilate to hasten their deaths by ordering that their legs be broken. Then their bodies could be taken down. 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the two men crucified with Jesus. 33 But when they came to Jesus, they saw that he was already dead, so they didn’t break his legs. 34 One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out. 35 (This report is from an eyewitness giving an accurate account. He speaks the truth so that you also may continue to believe.) 36 These things happened in fulfillment of the Scriptures that say, “Not one of his bones will be broken,” 37 and “They will look on the one they pierced.”
For Reflection and Prayer:
What did you hear as you listened to the text? Did a word or phrase stand out in particular? Meditate on this word, phrase or picture. Is there more God wants to say to you?
This sacred passage is full of graphic details which engage all of our bodily senses. If and as you are able, notice which emotions and sensations arise within you as you dwell in the text. As part of your prayer, extend your compassion to Jesus, his companions and yourself however you are feeling in this moment.
Savor any comforting words or pictures God gives you. Simply rest in God’s presence.
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