After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit. (John 19:28-30)
I really think that the Scriptures speak for themselves today, but I will add just a short reflection for you to ponder as you read the passion narrative.
Last weekend, our pastor mentioned a painting called the Raising of the Cross by Rembrandt. Everything is as you would expect in a crucifixion scene except for one person prominently featured at the foot of the cross. It is Rembrandt. He is one of men raising Jesus to his death and it made me consider where I see myself in today’s story. Do I see myself alongside Rembrandt, raising Jesus to die with my sin? Am I Peter, once so close to our Lord, but in a time of great trial denying that I ever knew the man? Or maybe the Centurion, who after seeing Jesus suffer realized that he was indeed the innocent Lamb of God. Do I find myself with John, Mary, and the other women weeping at the foot of the cross as my Savior dies?
What about you? Where do you see yourself in the Passion story? What does your role tell you about your relationship with God at this moment?
Adventures of Our Own 