John 19:30

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.

What can you learn about Jesus from this passage?

We learn from the passage that Jesus would not say, “It is finished,” until he was assured the mission or task assigned to him had been completed. Jesus said, “It is finished,” because he was bringing an end and conclusion to the mission he was given at birth. The wine Jesus received prior to speaking those words is symbolic of his blood that we may drink and have everlasting life. The act of Jesus choosing to “give up” his spirit after speaking those words signifies the completed transaction. A “completed transaction” is defined as: the transferring of goods or services to another beneficiary. Jesus offered his spirit in exchange for the forgiveness of all our sins, and so that we can one day be “beneficiaries” in his Father’s Kingdom.

As you continue to reflect on this passage, consider these questions: What one area of your life seems too overwhelming to finish? What strength can you find from Jesus? Are other voices trying to help us see? What new life might God give in the face of that ending?

Prayer: Gracious God, give me eyes to see what things are drawing to a close in my life. Help me to release these things to you. Tend to my spirit so that new life and new opportunities will come. Amen.

Rev. James Stevenson, Sr.
Scott United Methodist Church
North District