The Our Father and 7 Last Words of Jesus, 4th Word

The Christ by Kovalenko (Dollarphotoclub.com)

Lenten Series Part 4, by Dennis P. McGeehan

The key episode in all of history is the death and resurrection of Jesus. No other event in history is remotely close in impact and permanence of effect. It was the reason he came to Earth, the fulfillment of his life. The Son of God became man so he could pay the price of our sins on the cross. His whole human existence pointed to this moment.

The scriptures record what Christ said while he hung on the cross. For all believers his words are worth pondering. The seven last words of Christ are seven statements he made. They are the last teachings he gave to us, and connect to his teaching on how we should pray.

Fourth Word: “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Mark 15:33-34)

Have you ever been hurt by someone you love and trust completely? The astonishment is often greater than the pain; you simply cannot believe that person did it. Jesus was one with the Father. He knows his Father is not abandoning him, but the real suffering of the cross brings out his anguish in these words. The Father has not abandoned Jesus. He will not remove the cross, but he will stay by Jesus and see him through his ordeal.

“Give us this day our daily bread …” Do you know someone suffering profoundly? It is difficult to see people who are dealing with extreme pain, especially emotional pain. Their suffering can drain us. But this is when we are needed the most, needed more than food or water. Being a disciple of Jesus will cost you!

Jesus was an innocent victim. People can bring on their own suffering. They are not innocent. The Good Thief was not innocent. They still deserve our love. Anyone of us can be the guilty person in need of help.

Dennis P. McGeehan is a husband, father (nine kids — eight on Earth and one in God’s hands), author and freelance writer who has written for a variety of magazines. He has published two books, The Diaries of Joseph and Mary  and Selecting the Best Martial Arts Class for your Child. He is a member of the Catholic Writers Guild. Dennis blogs at www.warriorsworlddad.com. 

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