The Seven Last Words of Jesus From The Cross: Lenten Conference #3

The Seven Last Words of Jesus From The Cross: Lenten Conference #3 From Mercy to Completion: A Journey Through the Seven Last Words This conference is a theological reflection centered on the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross, . . . . . . contemplated as we Prepare Our Hearts for Holy Week observances. This reflection emphasizes the theological and spiritual significance of these words, portraying them not merely as the last utterances of a dying man but as intentional, revelatory statements that encapsulate God’s mercy, justice, and salvific plan. Key themes include: * The weight of last words and how they convey enduring significance. * Jesus as the full revelation of God, more than just the Bible as a text. * The Cross as both pulpit and altar, a place of suffering and profound proclamation. * The structure and liturgical framing of Jesus’ crucifixion within the hours of prayer, aligning with scriptural tradition. * The seven words reveal both divine truth and human nature, each framed by prayer and deeply meaningful: 1. “Father, forgive them…” – a prayer of mercy. 2. “Today you will be with me in paradise” – a gift of salvation to the repentant. 3. “Woman, behold your son…” – establishing new spiritual relationships. 4. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” – the cry of all human suffering. 5. “I thirst” – expressing a longing to fulfill God’s will. 6. “It is finished” – the completion of redemption. 7. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” – returning to divine rest. The conference weaves biblical symbolism, liturgical tradition, and pastoral insight, helping us all to understand that these words were not only spoken to those present but continue to speak across time to all humanity. Listen to this Lenten Season Friday Devotional Conference: Listen to … The Seven Last Words of Jesus From The Cross: Lenten Conference #3 ************************************************ Image: Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951 The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes. ************************************************ Note: This marks the Third Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link below to see all conferences captured to date. ************************************************ What is the mystery of faith? We proclaim your death and profess your resurrection until you come, …. and there is various formula by which we say that, but the sentiment is all the same. The mystery of faith is the victorious death and resurrection of the Lord who will come again. And so, then if we look at The Cross as the high point of revelation, it is not simply then a matter of saying that’s Jesus’ suffering for our sins and saving us. It is also recognizing God is saying something to us during The Seven Last Words of Jesus on The Cross!