Jesus said several things from the cross on Friday. This culminated with his final statement, said in a loud voice as required by custom...Father into thy hands I commend my spirit."
I've heard lots of explanations on why Jesus said this and what each word means.
In truth, I really like the most simple explanation. It is part of a prayer that all
1st century Jewish mothers taught their children. It is how we think of "now I lay me down to sleep..." although way more eloquent.
Here is the prayer - in full. Jesus could only say the brief second line as he was dying. I can't even type it without crying - knowing that Jesus, dying on a cross, prayed the prayer his mother taught him as a young boy - culminates his full life and mission on earth. I love him SO much - read and memorize...and be reminded of the amazing work in the Garden, on the Cross, and from the Tomb.
"In thy hands are the souls of the living and the dead. Into thy hands I commend my spirit. Thou hast redeemed me, Oh Lord, oh God of truth.
The name of the Lord God of Israel, may Michael be on my right hand, Gabriel at my left hand, before me, Uriel, behind me Raphael, and above my head, the presence of God."
2 comments:
Beautiful!!
Have a HAPPY Easter! (In Paris, you lucky dog.) You're in the air AS WE SPEAK! Hope you have a fabulous trip.
Are you home?
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