Jesus’ Willing Sacrifice

“With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last.”

In the Gospel of Matthew he adds that Jesus gave up His spirit. Luke says the same, but also adds that Jesus said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” In John’s gospel it is added that Jesus said, “It is finished.” He then bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Jesus was always in control. Even when it seemed like events were taking place that were out of control, Jesus remained calm and composed, even to the point that it unnerved Pilate. Although it appeared that Jesus was killed by men, and for all intents and purposes He was, it was only because He allowed it to happen. In John 19:11 Jesus responded to Pilate’s question saying, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.”

Jesus went to the cross obediently and willingly in order to honour His Heavenly Father and make a way for us to be reconciled with Him. He gave His life freely so that we might have new life and live in freedom from sin and death in eternity. He was not forced to, He did so because of His perfect love for God, and His perfect love for us.

How do we respond? By echoing what Jesus said. “It is finished!” He has done what we could not, what we cannot, and so we rest in His accomplished work rather than trying to make ourselves good enough to please God. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We must follow, believe, and live for Him and by Him.

This Sunday we will be looking at Mark 15:16-47. Read it over beforehand. In fact, read over the whole Gospel of Mark if you have a chance. You’ll be glad you did! Our gathering is at 4pm – hope to see you there.

Pastor Mike