“It is finished.” John 19:30
Three words that changed history.
The Greek word for the phrase is tetelestai and is an ancient accounting term signifying a debt was completely paid off. Everything that was previously a burden was now cleared.
Jesus’ proclamation wasn’t a cry of failure. It was a fearless acclamation of conquest!
The Old Testament prophecies of Jesus were fulfilled, the debt for human sin and separation was fully paid, His earthly mission of redemption was accomplished.
Bystanders watched with amazement as this man, barely recognizable from the physical abuse and scourging He endured (Isaiah 53:3) continued toward His destiny of death with purpose. With the crown of thorns piercing the flesh of his head, steel spikes were driven through his hands and feet. Each blow of the hammer reverberated to Heaven with signals that the plan was being carried out. As Jesus was hoisted in the air His lungs became deflated. With each fighting effort to live, did the religious leaders reflect on how God breathed the breath of life into Adam’s nostrils, and man became a living being (Genesis 2:7)?
For three hours Jesus hung there, pushing himself up by legs limp from fatigue just to catch a breath. As His mother and dearest friends looked on and grieved, Jesus looked on in grace at those who carried out His execution.
As the horizon brought a rush of darkness that would soon descend upon the hill and humanity, Jesus’ mission was rushing to completion. All the lessons to encourage, the meals and laughter shared with friends, and the gentle healing touches were done. Yet the story was just beginning to be told as Jesus cried out “VICTORY”. Victory for all who chose to believe that He is The Way, The Truth and The Life (John 14:6).
This Friday is not good. It is the greatest moment to claim victory. I pray that you will reflect on the love God provides for those who trust in the sacrifice of his One and Only Son. Trust Jesus this day: “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-10)
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