The Seven Last Words of Christ

As we enter into the solemn days of Holy Week, we turn our attention to the climax of the Story of Salvation–the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

As He hung on the cross, Jesus uttered seven profound statements known as the “Seven Last Words of Christ.” 

These words not only reveal the heart of our Savior but also offer deep spiritual insights for our lives as Christians. As St. Augustine observed: “The tree upon which were fixed the members of Him dying was even the chair of the Master teaching.”

Let’s take some time to meditate on the Seven Last Words of Christ and unpack what they mean for our lives.

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“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

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With the first words He offers from the cross, Jesus shows us the ultimate example of forgiveness. In His moment of deepest agony, Jesus doesn’t pray for himself or for his suffering to end; rather, Jesus prays for those who are causing His suffering and extends His mercy to them.

This is a call for us to forgive those who wrong us, no matter how deeply we may have been hurt. True forgiveness reflects the heart of Christ.

‍Reflect: Is there anyone in your life whom you find difficult to forgive? How can you embrace Christ’s example of mercy and forgiveness in your relationships?

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“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

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Two criminals were crucified alongside Christ, one on His right and one on His left. One thief mocks Jesus and demands He proves His identity as the Messiah; but the other repents of his sins and recognizes Christ's ability to save, asking Jesus to “remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus responds to the penitent thief (now recognized as St. Dismas) with his second word from the cross, promising eternal life to those who repent and turn to Him in faith. It’s a reminder that God’s mercy is always available, even in our final moments; we need only ask for it. 

‍Reflect: What does the promise of eternal life in paradise mean to you? How can you live today with the hope of eternal joy, regardless of your circumstances?

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“Woman, behold, your son. Behold, your mother.” (John 19:26-27)

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Standing at the foot of the cross and sharing in His agony was Jesus’ mother Mary and John the “Beloved Disciple.” He knew their distress and knew the pain they would feel when He died, but He was able to extend a tender gesture of love to them.

As Jesus hung on the cross, He entrusted the care of His mother to John and he to her. In doing so, He not only cared for her earthly needs but also gave us all a spiritual mother.

‍Reflect: How can you draw closer to Mary as your spiritual mother? What role does she play in your spiritual life, and how can you turn to her for guidance?

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“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34)

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These words, taken from Psalm 22, reflect the profound sense of abandonment that Jesus felt in His humanity. In His darkest hour, Jesus expressed the raw anguish of feeling forsaken by the Father. 

This cry resonates with anyone who has ever felt alone or distant from God. Yet, it also points to the fact that even in our deepest pain, we can turn to God. Jesus knows that even in the silence God is with Him and with us. 

‍Reflect: Have you ever experienced a feeling of abandonment or distance from God? How can you trust in His presence and care even in the darkest moments of your life?

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“I thirst.” (John 19:28)

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In His final moments, we are once again reminded of our shared humanity with Jesus as He expresses a need of the flesh. Yet Jesus’ fifth word not only expresses a physical thirst, but also a deeper spiritual thirst. He thirsts for the salvation of souls, for us to come to know Him and experience the fullness of life in Him. 

These words stand as a reminder of our own longing for God and the living water that only He can provide.

‍Reflect: What are the deeper longings in your life that only Christ can satisfy? How can you seek Christ more fully to fulfill your spiritual thirst?

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“It is finished.” (John 19:30)

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These words were not words of desperation, but triumph. 

With the sixth word, Jesus declared that His mission on earth was complete. The work of salvation was accomplished—sin was atoned for, and the price for our redemption was paid in full. 

This statement calls us to remember the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice. There is nothing more we need to do to earn salvation; it is finished. We needn’t live our life without hope; He has already won the final battle. 

‍Reflect: What areas of your life do you need to trust God has already completed for your salvation? How can you let go of the need to "earn" God’s love and accept His finished work on the cross?

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“Father, into Your hands I commend My spirit.” (Luke 23:46)

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With His final words, Jesus entrusts His spirit to the Father, affirming His complete trust and surrender to God’s will. 

This act of total abandonment to the Father’s care challenges us to live with the same trust in God, even in the face of death and suffering. It’s a call to surrender our lives into God’s hands, knowing that He holds us always.

Reflect: In what areas of your life do you struggle with surrendering fully to God? How can you practice greater trust and abandon yourself into God's care and will?

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Take these words to prayer, particularly on Good Friday. Ask the Lord to reveal to you His immense love for you and to help you take each of these lessons to heart so that you can emerge more fully into the joy of the Resurrection.

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