Station 13, Day 2

Station 13, Day 2

Jesus Dies on the Cross

It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun’s light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:44-45

Meditation

            The last words Jesus utters as a living being on earth are to God, offering his spirit to God. It is a fitting end to a journey none of us would embark upon willingly. In the same way he began his ministry, as an act of obedience to God, he ended his ministry by turning the only thing he had left – his spirit – back to God. There is no hint of ego or legacy-seeking or bitterness. Jesus’ entire life belonged to God, and when his life ended, he returned it to God. By earthly standards, these would not be “last words” worthy of posterity. Yet, they have endured for thousands of years as an uncommon expression of humility and submission.

After commending his spirit to God, his father, Jesus dies on the cross. The long, painful march to his physical death is complete, roughly 18 or so hours after it began. In a typical crucifixion, the legs of the criminals are broken in the late afternoon to hasten death. A person on a cross whose legs are broken can no longer push themselves up in order to take a breath. Jesus dies before the leg-breaking is necessary, however, consistent with an Old Testament prophesy that none of his bones would be broken.     

Spiritual discipline

            Meditate for 10 minutes on this scene at Golgotha. Place yourself at the foot of the cross, looking up at Jesus as his breathing becomes more labored and less frequent. Hear the words, probably in a hoarse and breathless whisper, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Experience the silence that follows.

Prayer

            Crucified Lord, your long and painful journey has ended. I have walked with you from the Garden of Gethsemane to the hill at Golgotha. I have seen you tried and beaten, flogged and humiliated. What a sorrowful journey it has been. Amen.

This is the 42^nd in a daily series titled The Stations of the Cross that will run through Easter 2026, at which time I will return to my weekly Life Notes. Life Notes are my explorations into mysteries that interest me. They are invitations for readers to explore more deeply into life’s mysteries. Engage with me or explore contemplative spiritual direction at ghildenbrand@outlook.com.