It is Finished

I have read the story of the crucifixion more times than I can count. I have yet been able to watch the “Passion of the Christ”. The suffering that we humans placed on Jesus is beyond comprehension and I struggle reading about it let alone seeing it on a movie screen. In recent years, I read the story multiple times and imagine what it would have been like to be present that day. I imagine myself as Pilate, having to sentence Jesus even though he disagreed with the Jewish leaders. I can feel his angst as he realizes that there is no right choice in this matter. I imagine myself as the Jewish leaders asking for the unthinkable as all they believed in, as their power, is threatened by this humble man. I can feel their fear that drives them to shout “Crucify!” I imagine myself as the soldiers doing their job and already numb to the horrors they are called to do time and again. I imagine myself as Simon wishing he had scheduled his trip at a different time, wondering why he was selected to carry the cross. I imagine the women wanting to hold on to Him just a little longer and the depth of sorrow they must have felt. I imagine myself as Peter denying Jesus when asked, nowhere near as bold in my faith when feeling personally threatened. I can imagine myself in all these shoes, but not in the shoes of Jesus.

I cannot imagine the ultimate sacrifice that He gave so that we may all live. I cannot imagine His sorrow knowing what was to come and that the sacrifice must be made and it was His alone to carry. I cannot imagine the heartbreak we must have caused to hear the words “Crucify!” shouted and to be spit on while carrying the cross with blood dripping in His eyes from the crown of thorns. I cannot imagine the depth of love, the courage, the strength He must have had to take each step knowing the ending is just the beginning. I cannot imagine, but I am forever thankful. “It is finished” He said, but what He gave us was a gift with no end, He gave us life.

Today, I pray that you reflect on the sacrifice made so that you and I can be forgiven. I pray that you pause and reflect on what happened on this earth, not too long ago, that forever changed us. I pray that you have a wonderful Easter!

If these words speak to you, please share with a friend!