I have found myself watching the clock today. Not because of appointments that I had or a desire to get home from the office. Rather, I’ve been watching the clock and reflecting back 2000 years. Focused on one moment in time. It happened at 3:00 (8:00 AM EST).
“From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.” Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled dir with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.” And when Jesus had cried out again in a aloud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split.” Matthew 27:45-51
“It was now about the sixth hour and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” when he had said this, he breathed his last.” Luke 23:44-46
“Later knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John 19:28-30
That one moment in time changed the world. In that moment, as Jesus hung on the cross, our sins were laid upon Him. In that moment, as the wounds throbbed with agony, healing was made available to us. In that moment, as God the Father turned His back on His son, Jesus experience separation from God so we would not. In that moment, as Jesus’ blood flowed, our sins were atoned. In that moment, when Jesus cried out “It is finished” Satan was defeated and salvation had come.
Praise God for that moment in time.
As you prepare to join us on Easter Sunday, let me encourage you to invite someone to join you. This Sunday is a day of celebration for He is alive! As part of our celebration we will be baptizing six individuals near the conclusion of the service. Since the portable baptismal pool is located at floor level we are encouraging parents of small children to come a little early and help satisfy their kids curiosity by looking at the pool. Additionally, our grade school kids will be staying in the service. Kid’s bulletins have been prepared and will be available. If you can’t join us in person, take part in the festivities by watching us here online! I look forward to celebrating with you this Sunday!
In His Strength,
Pastor Shan
Leave a Reply