Scripture: Luke 23:46 (NIV) – “Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last.”
Devotion:
As we reflect on the solemnity of Good Friday, Luke 23:46 offers us a profound glimpse into the final moments of Jesus’ earthly life. In this verse, we witness Jesus’ ultimate act of surrender to the will of God, even in the face of excruciating suffering and imminent death.
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” With these words, Jesus acknowledges his complete trust and submission to the Father’s plan. Despite the agony of the cross, Jesus remains steadfast in his obedience, willingly offering himself as the sacrificial Lamb for the sins of humanity.
In Jesus’ prayer, we see the perfect example of faith and surrender. He does not cling to life or resist the pain and humiliation of the cross. Instead, he entrusts himself fully to the care and sovereignty of his heavenly Father, confident that God’s purposes will be fulfilled.
As we meditate on Luke 23:46 this Good Friday, let us consider the significance of Jesus’ surrender for our own lives. Like Jesus, we are called to trust in God’s wisdom and providence, even when circumstances are difficult or painful. We are called to yield our will to God’s will, knowing that His plans for us are good and purposeful.
Jesus’ prayer also reminds us of the hope we have in God’s faithfulness. Just as Jesus committed his spirit into the hands of the Father, we too can entrust our lives and futures into God’s care, confident that He will sustain us and guide us through every trial and tribulation.
On this Good Friday, may we follow Jesus’ example of surrender and trust. May we echo his prayer, committing our lives and spirits into the hands of our loving and faithful Father. And may we find comfort and peace in knowing that, through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we have been reconciled to God and granted eternal life.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, as we remember the sacrifice of your Son on this Good Friday, we are reminded of the depth of his surrender and trust in you. Help us to follow Jesus’ example, yielding our will to yours and entrusting our lives into your care. Thank you for the hope and assurance we have in your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
