7 Last Words of Christ from the Crosss

Darkness falls, the temple curtain is torn signifying access to God's presence. Explores Jesus' seventh word as a word of intimacy, a word of trust, and a word of surrender.

Explores what Jesus finishes on the cross -- taking away sin, providing his life as a ransom. This is "drinking the cup," being baptized with the baptism of suffering. Considers his words as a cry of victory and announcement of obedience fulfilled. Calls us to live lives of purpose, focus, obedience, and willingness to suffer to achieve God's purpose. 

Considers that this word fulfills Psalm 69:21, describes the offering of wine vinegar or posca offered with a sponge on the stalk of a hyssop. Explores Jesus' physical humanity, his awareness of Scripture, and his determination to complete his task.

Reviews meaning of "darkness over the land" as a symbol of moral darkness, fulfillment of prophecy, a portent, the Father's anger, and the Father's judgment on sins. Considers Jesus words, the first words of Psalm 22 as a sign that as Jesus is bearing our sins on the cross, he feels separated from the Father.

Identifies Jesus' mother Mary at the foot of the cross along with other women. Gives his mother's care into the responsibility of "the disciple whom he loved," presumably the Apostle John. Explores love of and responsibility for family, even when he is dying.

Notes that Jesus was "numbered with the transgressors" (Isaiah 53:12). Observes the differing faith of the two thieves on earth side of his cross -- one curses him, the other prays to him in faith, astounding faith that sees past the cross of execution to Jesus coming into glory in the Father's kingdom. Considers whether this thief is saved and other deathbed conversions.

Considers Jesus' unselfish and compassionate prayer to his Father from the cross to forgive. Those who have put him on the cross needing forgiveness include soldiers, Pilate, chief priests and scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees, and each of us for our sins. Reviews what it means to forgive.

Overall look at the importance of Jesus' 7 last words to understand the meaning of his death and resurrection.