Good Friday

“It is finished” is among the final phrases of Jesus found in the four gospels, collectively known as the “Seven Last Words.” The others are “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” “Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” “Woman, behold your son. [Beloved disciple], behold your mother.” “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” “I thirst.” “Father, into your hands I commend your Spirit.” Taken together these words tell us everything about who Jesus was, why he lived and died, and what he calls his disciples to do. “Who will we be if we listen to the lessons of the Last Words of Jesus?” Alice Camille asks and answers in her brilliant little book Seven Last Words. “People of love and joy, ready to forgive, buoyed by hope.” May we be such people.