If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week we focus on the word “triumph.” To all the world, the cross looked like a defeat. And yet, the final word of Jesus from the cross is a word of victory! “It is finished.”
Invitation Prayer
King of Kings, through your death you triumphed over death. Through your resurrection you have raised me to new life. May your kingdom come. Reign and rule over my life this day. Amen.
Confession
Merciful Lord, how often have surrendered to temptation, to the world, to my own sinful desires. How often have I ended the day ashamed and defeated. Yet You have triumphed over them all. Forgive my sins and strengthen my love that in You I may finally win the victory. Amen.
Word
“He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” (Col. 2:15)
Meditation
The scene was straightforward. A man was dying by Roman execution, suspended on wooden beams. He gasped for breath and uttered, “It is finished.” In the moment, it was hard to understand. Now we see the unfathomable significance. This was not a symbolic death. It was not an inspirational martyrdom. It was not merely an example of love for us to emulate. Christ’s finished work has cosmic implications. At the cross, he dismantled the power of every ruler or evil force that works against God. He shamed every attempt to unseat God. He triumphed as a warrior over every enemy that seeks to destroy us. His victory is your gain.
King of Kings, the world is filled with authorities that claim your throne. Unseat them. Triumph over all who challenge your headship. You are my King. Amen.
Sending Prayer
I step forward in quiet boldness, Father, for I go forth in your promise, with great expectation and triumphant joy. I praise You Lord, for I have this confidence that the day is already won in Jesus. I praise and glorify Your name now and forevermore. Amen.
*Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com