The word of affection
23 March 2009
Read John 19: 2527 v 26 the third word from the cross was . Discuss What would be the most painful experience of any parent? What do you think Mary might have felt and thought as she watched her son die? What kind of memories do you think she might be recalling? Who is Jesus concerned for as he hangs on the cross in excruciating agony? Read Luke 2: 34, 35 and see what the prophecy that Simeon, the priest, spoke to Mary shortly after the birth of Jesus was. She would have lived with this thought throughout the 33 years of Jesus life. Here at Calvary, a deeply human drama is occurring, yet it points beyond to the majesty and mystery of Gods plan for salvation. PRAYER Lord Jesus, the presence of your mother at the cross engages my heart. You are no longer only the Savoir dying for the sins of the world. You are also a fully human man, a son with a mother. O Lord, how can I begin to thank you for what you suffered? My words fall short. My thoughts seem superficial and vague. Nevertheless, I offer my sincere gratitude for your suffering. Thank you for bearing my sin on the cross. I give you my praise, my love, my heart . . . all that I am, because you have given me all that you are. All praise be to you, Lord Jesus, fully God and fully human, Saviour of the world . . . my Saviour! Amen. (www.markdroberts.com (3) The Seven Last Words of Christ for Holy Week (2006), Mark D Roberts)
