Prayerfully Re-Center Around God
Words from Jesus on the Cross
Mark 15:34
The Fourth Word
My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Pondering Point
Many people take this prayer to be one of fear or confusion on Jesus’ part, but that’s not necessarily so – and likely the opposite. Why say this? Because these words of Jesus are a quote from Psalm 22:1. In fact, you can find many other allusions to His crucifixion in Psalm 22. Many informed hearers (and current readers) could pick up on such parallels.
How this quote about abandonment relates specifically to Jesus has been debated by scholars for centuries. But Jesus Himself was likely not confused at all. He knew why He was there – for us. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
Words from Jesus After the Cross
Luke 24:36-39
Peace - It's Me
While [the disciples of Jesus were still talking about the supposed resurrection], Jesus Himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”
Pondering Point
After Jesus’ death, the disciples could have easily felt the same sense of abandonment expressed by the words of Psalm 22:1. No wonder they were troubled, even startled and frightened at His appearance! Could this be real?!? It was as real the food He ate in front of them. And He gave them a real sense of peace to overcome their troubled hearts.
Prayer for the Day
Lord Jesus, whenever I feel a sense of abandonment, come with Your presence and Spirit and bring me peace in my inner places, my heart and soul. Let me experience the same peace as those first followers of Yours. In Your name I pray. Amen.