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 “forsaken”. Jesus said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
Invocation
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen!
Invitation Prayer
O God, everyone is from somewhere. But I’m in the middle of nowhere. I am a nobody. But you call my name, and I am somebody. Lord, do not forsake me. If no one else knows my name, I simply ask, call mine. Know me. Then I’m somebody. Amen.
Confession
O God, in the beginning you made us good, even “very good.” I admit the many things Lord, I am a hollow tree. There is an empty space inside me. Gone is the passion and the energy. All that remains is an echo of what once was. Have you left me? Am I alone? I am a corpse without you. Lord, I am a hollow tree. Only you can fill the empty.
Word: Deuteronomy31:6
“He will not leave you or forsake you.”
Meditation
We may identify with Jesus’ words, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” The beauty of this cry is that we too are given permission to cry out. As Jesus did, so we also can be honest about our own despair. It’s okay to admit depression and doubt? It is OK to shout to God and call for help. You have a divine invitation to honestly express your hurt.
But despair is not the final word. God answered the question, “Have you forsaken me?” God says, “No. Never.” “He will not leave you or forsake you.” With honesty, list your anxieties and fears. After each one, write the words of Deuteronomy 31:6. “He will never leave you or forsake you.”
O God who never leaves, forsake me not. Assure me of your presence in every moment of this day. Amen.
Sending
From Hebrews 13:5-6: “He has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” Come, O Lord, Amen.
Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com.