Seven Last Words of Christ (Morning Air)

In this moving episode of Morning Air, John Morales sits down with Martha Fernandez-Sardina to reflect deeply on the Seven Last Words of Christ, those powerful, sacred utterances Jesus spoke from the Cross.   We're invited to step closer to the heart of Christ and listen not just with our ears, but with our souls. Each of these final words is a gift, revealing Jesus' infinite love, mercy, and mission.      "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."   Right at the start, Jesus does the unthinkable: He forgives. Even as He’s being crucified, He becomes our intercessor: praying not just for us, but in place of us. Martha reminds us that this is the door to mercy. If He can forgive them, He can forgive you. Step into that freedom.     "Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise."   Here, Jesus offers the promise of eternal life, immediately to a repentant heart. The Good Thief simply turns to Him in faith, and Jesus welcomes him into Heaven. It’s a stunning reminder: no one is too far gone. Martha points out that even at our final hour, Jesus is ready to receive us.     "Woman, behold your son... Son, behold your mother."   Even in agony, Jesus gives us a precious gift, His mother Mary. Martha reflects on how this moment isn’t just about John; it’s about us. Jesus entrusts Mary to the Church and the Church to Mary. She becomes our spiritual mother, always pointing us to her Son and interceding for us with a mother’s heart.     "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?"   This haunting cry reveals the depth of Jesus’ suffering: not just physical, but spiritual. He quotes Psalm 22, which begins in anguish but ends in hope. Martha explains this moment as a bridge: Jesus experiences the full weight of human sorrow so that we never suffer alone. And He does this for us.     "I thirst."   These two small words express something immense. Yes, Jesus is physically thirsty, but more than that... He thirsts for you. For your love, your heart, your faith. Martha encourages us to respond to this thirst by drawing near to Him, especially in the Eucharist, where His longing meets ours.     "It is finished."   This is a proclamation of victory. Jesus has completed His mission. Sin is conquered. Death is broken. Martha invites us to reflect on our own mission, our own “yes” to God. Are we living the purpose He created us for?     "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit."   In His final breath, Jesus entrusts everything to the Father. It’s the perfect model of surrender: total confidence in God’s will. Martha reflects on how we’re called to do the same: to live and die in trust, placing our lives entirely in God’s hands.       Final Thoughts:   Let's meditate on the Cross with awe and love. Jesus’ final words aren’t just the end of a story... they’re the beginning of ours.   As you walk through the Triduum, let each word of Christ shape your heart. Make space for silence, prayer, and gratitude. And remember: these words were spoken for you.     The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.