The Arkansas Traveler

Personal commitment

Luke 23:44-47 (NASB)

44    It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness fell over the whole land until the ninth hour,

45    Because the sun was obscured; and the veil of the temple was torn in two.

46    And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, he breathed His last.

47    Now when the centurion saw what had happened, he began praising God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent."

++++++++++++++++

   His job was complete! He had left the glories of heaven (Philippians 2:5-6), and came to earth to show us the love of God. He had demonstrated God's power and love and finally came to the cross. For Him this was His coronation! He had prayed, "Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, that the Son may glorify You." (John 17:1)

   He had done that. He then committed Himself into the Father's hands. Time in the tomb was necessary, but His victory was already won! He trusted the Father! This is another reason to see that He did not feel utterly forsaken in Word 5.

   As we celebrate His victory at Easter time, let us take time to praise Him again. We still must examine our lives with this question: "Am I fulfilling my purpose?" That is to glorify the Father in heaven, by being obedient on earth.

++++ I was reminded Sunday that Jesus' final words were: "Go and tell" (Mt. 28:19-20)