Traditionally called “The Seven Last Words of Christ,” these words are really phrases. So I decided to pare down to one word and see where my thoughts lead. It is of utmost importance to remember that the seven words are about Jesus’ last days. At the same time it is not disrespectful to acknowledge convergence points. An old version of the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith states that Jesus shared our common lot. Therefore identifying with Jesus’ words might nurture devotion to the earthly Jesus who shared our human condition. Pondering Jesus’ last words on Good Friday (April 18 this year) or any day is prayerful.
Father: Think of the other words Jesus might have used, including the words ”Lord” or “King.” However he selected a paternal name suggesting that the parental heart of God is open to hear people’s prayers. Jesus asked Father-God to forgive those not smart enough to know what they were doing. He left forgiveness to God. Is forgiveness from human beings always possible? In any case it seems to me that prudence, patience, and practice are components of forgiveness.
Paradise: Walking in Jesus’ way of caring is unity of spirit, a heavenly bond. Inviting beauty in many forms might bring a feeling of paradise. Simone Weil described the world’s beauty as Christ’s “tended smile for us coming through matter.” The beauty of holiness is akin to paradise.
Behold: It takes courage to look at Jesus’ pain on the cross. Likewise beholding the pain of people suffering from personal illness or social injustice is an act of courage.
Forsaken: Who among us has not felt forsaken or forgotten by God, family, or even church? Of course I do not know for certain yet suspect that only a few people have never felt abandoned. Jesus’ cry echoes Psalm 22. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Psalm 22:1. In verse 24 the Psalms proclaims that God did not hide his face and heard his cry of pain. We cannot know for sure if Jesus had that affirmation in mind. Sometimes things work out over time. The future is open.
Thirst: My own idea, although other may have thought of it, is that this word could be Jesus’ conviction that he is of the house of David. In Psalm 63:1 it is written that David’s soul thirsts for God. Perhaps you have thirsted for God or social justice or comfort when hurting. If so, Jesus and David are your spiritual brothers.
Finished: Of course finished suggests release from pain. However because Koine Greek, the language of the New Testament, is nuanced, it is time to consult a lexicon. The Liddell and Scott lexicon adds “full” and “complete” which to me means that Jesus completed his earthly work.
Hands: Putting our concerns in the hands of God can bring inner peace. People work with their hands. In Psalm 8, the psalmist sings of God’s work with hands. In diverse ways our hands can bring healing.
Sharon R. Chace holds a Master of Theological Studies degree with a biblical concentration from Weston Jesuit School of Theology (1998) and is poet laureate emeritus of Rockport. Midweek Musings usually rotates among Cape Ann clergy.