In some seasons, we find ourselves counting the days until a trial is over. In others, we want to slow down the hours and the minutes. One of the most beautiful truths I've ever seen penned are these:
"Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity." -Henry Van Dyke
We are not too far past Resurrection Sunday. Easter, as we commonly call it was the bold reminder that our God has the power over life and death. There is a pivotal moment when Jesus releases his spirit to our Heavenly Father. It was a decision. He could have held on longer. He could have ended it sooner. At some point, Jesus knew the time was right.
"When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." -John 19:30
Death did not take him. He surrendered. He endured what only a few humans could survive, and persevered. He did not grow bitter, only sad when only one of the two thieves hanging beside him chose to believe. It was His hope that all would see and believe.
There must have been a sense of relief when he simply stated, "It is finished." He had sealed the deal and gained our individual pardons through his selfless act of sacrifice. More than 2000 years later, some do not see the victory in the "pieced together" portions of our lives.
He makes all things beautiful in his time. And when he is finished, there is majesty and wonder.
"And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. -Revelation 21:6
Inhale... exhale... repeat.
Today, I am grateful for the times we hear "It is finished."
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