The Seven Last Words from the Cross

Good Friday
Isaiah 52:13-53:12 | Psalm 30(31):2,6,12-13,15-17,25 | Hebrews 4:14-16,5:7-9 | John 18:1-19:42


Several years ago, I wrote a hymn to be sung on this dolorous day, set to the music of one of my favorite hymns, Samuel Wesley’s The Church’s One Foundation. For various reasons, it has yet to be sung.

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, I commend this hymn to you. May it enrich your meditation on the Passion of Our Lord and Saviour, and help you draw closer to Him, not just today, but every day.

THE SEVEN LAST WORDS FROM THE CROSS
Forgiveness, Salvation, Relationship, Abandonment,
Distress, Triumph, Reunion

“Forgive them, Father, truly they know not what they do.”
Forgive us, Lord, completely, come fill our hearts anew.
“In truth I say, you will be in paradise with me.”
Your Passion saved us freely, we long to dwell with thee.

“Behold thy son, dear mother; behold thy mother, son.”
Draw us to God our Father, your peoples joined as one.
“Eloi, Eloi,” You cried out, “lama sabachthani?”
Be with us, Lord, and cast out our sin to set us free.

You said, “I thirst,” dear Jesus, in sorrow and distress,
O strengthen us and calm us, when life its troubles press,
“Tetelestai.” You finished Your mission here on earth.
Salvation You accomplished, to Your great Church gave birth.

“Into your hands, O Father, my spirit now returns.”
O God, your sons and daughters, our hearts for You still yearn.
Your seven words we treasure. Christ, heal us so that we,
Freed from all earthly pleasures, on high may dwell with thee.

Amen.

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