It Is Finished: From Cross to Compassion
As we journey through Lent, the solemn season of repentance and renewal, we are invited to meditate deeply on Jesus’ earthly ministry – his passion, death, and resurrection. At the heart of our contemplation are the last seven statements uttered by Christ on the cross. Yet, too often, we overlook the significance of “It is finished” (John 19:30) as simply marking the end of his suffering. However, these words reveal the climax of God’s master plan of redemption.
When Jesus cried out “It is finished”, he was declaring the completion and perfection of his obedient work. Like Abraham faithfully answered God’s call (Genesis 17:1-3), Jesus finished the mission the Father gave him by offering the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins. This fulfilment is foreshadowed from the first statement, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34) to his anguished cry of being forsaken.
Preaching this message of divine pardon to all nations is the great commission Jesus has entrusted to we who call ourselves Christians (Luke 24:47). In a world still torn by conflict, hatred and vengeance, we are called to be ambassadors of radical forgiveness and mercy, just as our heavenly Father is merciful (Luke 6:36). From the world wars to inner-city violence, from broken marriages to strained workplace relationships – our mandate is to become perfected in forgiveness, turning the other cheek as Christ did (Matthew 5:39).
This is no easy task, as Jesus’ cry of thirst exemplified the utter anguish he endured for us. As we look at the staggering global crisis, at those ravaged by hunger, disease and persecution, we see the same desolation that moved Jesus’ compassionate heart. We too are called to respond through spiritual and corporal acts of mercy, sharing in the suffering of this world’s afflicted.
He completed the Father’s plan for our eternal salvation, so that we may become perfected, as God is perfect (Matthew 5:48). As we contemplate these profound words, let us pause and consider how we can embody forgiveness in our daily lives. Perhaps it’s extending a hand to someone in need, reconciling with a friend or family member, or simply offering a kind word to a stranger. May we embrace this Lenten journey as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation, drawing closer to the heart of Christ’s message of love and forgiveness. (Media Team)