Holy Week- Friday
“Forsaken, Abandoned, But Not Alone”

“Darkness fell. His friends scattered. Hope seemed lost. But heaven just started counting to three.” – Bob Goff

Today, we reflect on the promise fulfilled that because we are loved, Jesus died for us. He took on the burden of our sins and bared the weight of humiliation, torture, and suffering on a cross for us to be saved. As those on the ground mocked him, he breathed perhaps shallow breaths and in one question, asked, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46) These very words are also spoken in Psalm 22:1 by King David. Both are suffering, both for very different reasons, both feeling forsaken. Jesus was abandoned by most of his disciples…his friends, and the volume of ridicule and hatred towards him was amplified the further he walked toward Golgotha. Yet, Jesus was not alone. He knew by God’s promise that this day was going to happen. We know that Jesus predicted his death, so this was not unexpected. Yet, on the cross, the words come out…” why have you forsaken me?” Only God could deliver us from evil. Therefore, Jesus had to, in his fully human form, take on that burden in those moments before his last shallow breaths were released. God does not find favor in evil, but Jesus needed to be the sacrifice that took the sin and gave us freedom.

Psalm 22 is a lament. It is a cry out to God for help. How do you call out to God in moments of lament? Today, take a few moments to sit quietly in His presence. If there is an area of your life that feels strained, like you are alone facing something, consider saying a prayer of lament. Through the hope of God’s deliverance, we are never alone. Believe, trust, and depend on God’s love to never leave you alone. Just as Jesus took on our burdens while he felt abandoned, he was never alone. God With Us.

Prayer:

Lord, through the grace of your love, you have forgiven us. Thank you, Lord, that by your love, we are redeemed. Thank you, Lord, that we are never alone. Amen.