From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. 46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).
47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”
48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.”
50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split
Matthew 27:45-51
Questions for Reflection:
Contemplate what being "forsaken" feels like. We all have an idea ... but absolute forsakenness in eternity. What comes to mind?
Now think about that "Jesus became forsaken by God so I never have to be!" What does that feels like?
As you contemplate these two realities ...... what does your heart want to say to Jesus?
Prayer of the Week:
Jesus, I love You! I worship You! I trust You! I give myself over to You today in my heart’s search for life. Restore me in You! Renew me in You and lead me in this time of prayer.
Jesus I thank you that you never leave me, not even once, not even in my most difficult moments. In the moments that seem too much for me to handle, you are there.
Lord, This year has been full of overturned tables and change. And yet despite that you have provided, and will provide, many opportunities for joy, peace and healing in my life, and opportunities to share your love with others. I ask that I would not become too focused on the losses of this year, or the things that "could have been." Instead I pray for eyes to see how you are working in new and exciting ways and a heart to follow.
I praise you for being my savior and my king, that you are the one who restores me and all things. You bring healing, restoration and life that only you can bring. I confess that all too often I seek for life away from you and try to do things my own way. I repent! I turn back to you now this day.
Jesus, Just as you asked the blind men "what do you want me to do for you?" You also ask us to come before your throne and ask for our daily bread. As I think now about my day and my coming week I ask that you would go before me and set a path in my life. (at this time you are invited to pause and talk to God about your week)
Jesus fill me afresh with your Holy Spirit. Today I wave the palm of freedom from sin, death and the devil that was purchased for me by your blood. You are my way, my truth and my life. My risen savior.
Amen
