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 “salvation”. A thief on the cross called to Jesus, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42) Jesus replied with a word of salvation, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Invitation Prayer
Lord, I have a one word prayer today: Help! You are the Savior of those in desperation. What else can I say? I cannot get out of this. I have no answers. I don’t know what to do, even in the next moment. All I have is a child’s call: Help! Amen.
Confession
O God of salvation, have mercy on me, according to your steadfast love.
At discouragement, I lose heart. Give me patience and a steadfast heart.
At success, I want more. Give me gratitude and contentment.
At pain, I flee. Give me courage and fortitude.
At temptation, I give in. Give me faithful endurance.
At criticism, I get angry. Give me humility and growth.
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love.
Word: Genesis 49:18
“I wait for your salvation, O Lord.”
Meditation
We are all part of a bigger story. Our time is but a snippet. There have been people before us and there will be people after us. At the end of Genesis, Jacob was near death. His final words include this: “I wait for your salvation, O Lord.”
Wait. We have a hard time waiting. Jacob had 12 sons, but he was waiting for someone beyond his own children or grandchildren. He was waiting for one particular son to bring salvation – the Son of God, Jesus Christ, his Lord. He saw Christ from a distance. He trusted God’s promise of salvation. And waited. Why is it hard for you to wait on the Lord? How will you wait for him today?
O God, I am impatient. Forgive my insistence on wanting things now. Help me to wait on you. Amen.
Sending Word
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (II Peter 3:18)
*Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com