SEVEN LAST WORDS OF JESUS

 

Jesus spoke to those who were with him during His crucifixion and, at the same time, was speaking to us with tender, and gentle love. We call these last sayings of Jesus the seven last words. What will be the seven last things that we say?

 

Lord Jesus, help us to come to a deeper understanding of the meaning and purpose of life and help us to accept suffering in union with you. May our meditation on your seven last words confirm our faith in you and your promise of eternal life.

 

Recite after each mediation:

 

Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto yours.

 

“Father, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing.”

Lord, teach me to forgive.

 

“I assure you: this day you will be with me in paradise.”

Jesus rewards the thief for his honesty and truthfulness. Lord Jesus, help me to be honest, truthful and to join you in paradise.

 

“Woman, there is your son.” “There is your mother.”

Teach me to love and be grateful for your blessed mother. Teach me to think of my mother and care for her.

 

“My God, My God. Why have you forsaken me?”

Lord, when I feel depressed lonely, helpless, let me remember your words and pray for help.

 

“I am thirsty.”

Jesus, how human of you. Teach me to ask for what I need.

 

“Now it is finished.”

Give me the grace to know when my life is over, to express it to those with me, to be at peace.

 

“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

Jesus, I want to give my life to you. I want to give my life to you each day. Help me to do so. Then, at the end of my life, I will know how to say these words to you.

 

May we all give ourselves and our God the gift of time during these forty days of Lent to pray, to grow in love, to prepare to live a better life. May you experience the joy of God's love, find your faith stronger, your hope rekindled and your love powerfully renewed.