Desert Journey – Day 40

Commend

The cross lies empty. The telltale signs of yesterday’s event are evident. The crucifixtion of the one named Jesus, King of the Jews, was well attended. I stand staring at the vacant cross and remember Jesus’ last words, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

I wonder how often I resist commending my spirit, after all, I do have a choice. Will I submit or resist? And if I submit, will it be with a loving heart or a grumbling one? An ongoing challenge.

On this Holy Saturday, my perspective is different than those who walked away from Golgotha 2,000 years ago. I am fortunate to have scripture, history and tradition on which to rest my faith. Today, I contemplate the tomb, the lifeless body of our Savior, his distraught mother, his grieving friends. And at the same time, my hope and anticipation are plentiful.

It is time to walk down the hill, leave the place of death behind, and head towards the tomb. Tomorrow it will be found empty because the impossible will become a reality. Tomorrow brings glory and praise, celebration and victory. My spirit is expectant!

The desert journey is finished, but our spiritual trek continues. My spirit, I pray, is not the same as it was 40 days ago. Journeys do that, make us different. I hope my spirit is more apt to commend itself to the Father, submit itself to the Son, and be led by the Holy Spirit. I pray…Father, humble my spirit that I may have a heart full of love. Amen.

Thank you friends, for journeying with me. I am truly grateful. I pray that Easter morning is met with great anticipation and exuberance as the Risen Jesus embraces you!