Mark 15:37-39

Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. When the Roman officer who stood facing him saw how he had died, he exclaimed, “This man truly was the Son of God!”

I am very struck by the fact that just before Jesus breathed His last breath, He let out a loud cry. This is the last thing that you would have expected of a man dying on the cross. It would have been hard for Jesus to breathe at all, but He gave a shout of triumph. His work of salvation was finished. He had won the final victory over sin and death.

The tearing of the curtain of the Temple confirmed that a new era had opened up. In the past, only the high priest could enter into the Holy of Holies, but now, through the death of Christ on the cross, a new way was opened up for anyone who would turn to Him. The old barriers and restrictions was torn down as Jesus opened wide His arms to the world. Everyone was now warmly welcomed.

The fact that the first person to comment on the death of Jesus was not a Jew is hugely significant and very surprising. Who would have thought that the Roman soldier responsible for overseeing His death would identify exactly who Jesus was? It was as if he were speaking on behalf of the world. Jesus Himself was indeed a Jew, but He came to bring life to all who would accept him, then and now.

Question

What is your reaction to the crucifixion of Jesus?

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, I praise You for dying for me so that my sins can be forgiven. Thank You for loving me completely and offering me the gift of eternal life. Amen