On the Fourth Day of Passion Week, my true love gave to me…
And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46 ESV)
And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. (Mark 15:37 ESV)
Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46 ESV)
When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (John 19:30 ESV)
Four Gospel Accounts
I have twelve biographies of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a man I find fascinating. I have seven biographies of Winston Churchill, a man I find fascinating. I have six depictions of Custer’s Last Stand, an event I find fascinating. I chose multiple perspectives on those historical things, because I learn from different viewpoints.
It does not surprise me that as God wrote His Bible, He inspired four depictions of this week. There are not many events that are found in all four gospels. Even the incarnation is only really in two, Matthew and Luke.
But THIS week is the knot at the center of the bow tie of Christ’s life.
And the four viewpoints, unlike my biographies and histories, are all absolutely true.
Why not read them all today? What better thing do you have to do on a Thursday evening?
I rejoice that God has given us four pictures of this week.