When all of this had taken place, Scripture says that Jesus committed his spirit back to the Father, and with a loud cry, he died.
In this canvas, the dove rests in hands, a reminder of the Holy Spirit present like a dove at Jesus’s baptism, too.
For his whole life and ministry, Jesus has committed to the Father’s work. And in one final act of love and devotion, he gives his spirit back to God.
What does it mean to you that God holds your spirit, and you, in the palm of his hand?
What does it mean that Jesus remained committed to the Father’s work, the work of God, in all that he did?
In this moment, the Earth was shaken by Jesus’s death. The veil in the temple was torn. The sky had darkened. But for the disciples, it felt like all was lost.
Jesus knew a different story, though.
As he committed himself to the Father, a larger story was at work. One that would change the course of history and turn back the clocks of death and destruction.
In just three days Jesus would rise again, meeting the women in the garden and sending them to preach the powerful Gospel of new life.
But for now, all is quiet.
It is finished. Jesus rests in the fathers arms.
We do, too.
Reflect for a moment on that before you exit the sanctuary today.

Music: High Above by Wild Wonder
Read By: Staci Plonsky