Ep 113 // Lenten Listening Series // John 19 // The Relinquishing

Welcome back to our Holy Week journey as we walk through the final chapters of the Gospel of John. Today, on what we recognize as Good Friday, we pause and meditate on the ultimate act of surrender and sacrifice that changed everything for humanity. The crucifixion of Jesus is both a deeply painful and incredibly beautiful moment in our faith journey. As we reflect on Jesus' words and actions, let His love and sacrifice pour over you anew today.

Grab your journal and take some time to meditate in this deep passage of Scripture!

Key Moments in John 19:

• Jesus is flogged, mocked, and crowned with thorns as He is paraded before the crowds, with Pilate declaring Him innocent but still handing Him over to be crucified.
• The soldiers cast lots for His clothing, fulfilling the prophecies from the Hebrew Scriptures.
• Jesus' tender words to His mother and John, entrusting them to each other, revealing the deep value of family and spiritual community.
• Jesus declares, "It is finished," and breathes His last, signifying the completion of His mission on Earth.
• Jesus' body is taken down and prepared for burial, fulfilling further prophecies and ensuring that His sacrifice is honored.

Reflection Time:

As you listen, allow the weight of Jesus' sacrifice to wash over you. What do you notice in His words and actions? Perhaps there's a new understanding of His relationship with His mother or the deeper significance of "it is finished."

Take a moment to journal about:

• What stood out to you most in this passage?
• How does this act of relinquishing speak to you in your current season? What does it mean for you to let go and trust God fully?

Megan's Personal Reflection:

In this episode, I share my thoughts on the deep love and surrender Jesus modeled for us—not just in His death, but in His every word and action leading up to it. The moment when He hands His mother over to John, His beloved disciple, reveals so much about the heart of Jesus, not just for His biological family, but for the larger spiritual family. This moment, though filled with grief, also gives us hope for our own relationships and the family we are called to in Christ.

Call to Action:

Take a moment to reflect on your own surrender. Is there something in your life that you are still holding onto tightly? Ask God to help you relinquish control and trust Him more deeply today. And if you feel led, share this episode with someone who might need to hear about Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.

Connect with Megan:

• Instagram: @megan_nilsen
• Facebook: @megannilsenkingdomlifecoach
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://meganbnilsen.com/

If you’ve been moved by this episode, I encourage you to share it with others as we journey through Holy Week together. Let’s reflect on the cross and what Jesus did for us.

Join me next time for a deep dive into John 20 as we celebrate the resurrection on Easter Sunday!