PASSION WEEK DEVOTION OF THE SEVENS

 

Passion Week (also known as Holy Week) is the time from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday (Resurrection Sunday). Passion Week is so named because of the passion with which Jesus willingly went to the cross in order to pay for the sins of His people. Passion Week is described in Matthew chapters 21-27; Mark chapters 11-15; Luke chapters 19-23; and John chapters 12-19. Passion Week begins with the triumphal entry on Palm Sunday on the back of a colt (as prophesied in Zechariah 9:9), climaxes upon his glorious resurrection and concludes when you and I eternally return to our heavenly home.

 

Passion Week contained several memorable events. Jesus cleansed the Temple for the second time (Luke 19:45-46), then disputed with the Pharisees regarding His authority. Then He gave His Olivet Discourse on the end times and taught many things, including the signs of His second coming. Jesus ate His Last Supper with His disciples in the upper room (Luke 22:7-38), then went to the garden of Gethsemane to pray as He waited for His hour to come. It was here that Jesus, having been betrayed by Judas, was arrested and taken to several sham trials before the chief priests, Pontius Pilate, and Herod (Luke 22:54-23:25). Following the trials, Jesus was scourged at the hands of the Roman soldiers, then was forced to carry His own instrument of execution (the Cross) through the streets of Jerusalem which is also known as the Via Dolorosa (way of sorrows). Jesus was then crucified, buried, and then gloriously resurrected.

 

As Christians or Citizens of Heaven, we should prepare to celebrate the Biblical ordinances (Holydays or Festivals: Exodus 12 & Leviticus 23) because they are God’s Festivals. They connect us to the Father of All and allow us to experience His love. Furthermore, celebrating the Biblical ordinances allows us to join all of heaven and its activity in celebrating our King—this is called worship. Thus, the lack of worship keeps us—like the children of Israel—wandering in our deserts for years wanting things that do not fulfill the innermost desires. For instance, depression is presented in our lives because some refuse to embrace the power released over our thoughts and inner hurts when Christ’s heart was pierced on the cross. Jesus Christ truly revealed His passion for us in the suffering He willingly went through on our behalf. This is the reason why we celebrate the Resurrection season. It is our life worship to remember and commemorate the moment our freedom from the kingdom of darkness was solidified and guaranteed through Christ, in addition to, regaining access to our Father in right standing to partake in the everlasting covenant.

 

As part of our life worship, Labourers For Christ Center For Reconstruction chooses to annually celebrate the Resurrection season as part of our Christian Heritage and Holy-day (holiday). There are other Holy-day/festival seasons we will also commemorate (i.e., Christmas/Advent season and Pentecost) but the focus at this time is Resurrection which includes Palm Sunday; an exploration of the Supper of the Lamb which highlights elements from the Last Supper and Passover (Seder) meals, a presentation of the last seven sayings of Christ, the seven places Jesus shed His blood, and the first seven sayings after resurrection; and finally, Resurrection Sunday celebration. We invite you for the next seven days to join us as we celebrate Passion Week through a daily devotion that focuses on

 

1)His’ last seven sayings of the Savior on the Cross,

 

2)the seven places that His’ Blood was shed, 

 

3) the first seven conversations after resurrection and before His ascension into Heaven to take His seat next to the Father.

 

Take time each day to focus on these three areas and ask Holy Spirit to reveal a hidden truth that will serve as a key to your freedom in an area of your life desired.

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The First of the Sevens (Day 1):

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1. The 1st of the 7 last sayings: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke23:34). The Release of the Father’s Forgiveness through the power of prayer and intercession. Because our Lord is nailed to a cross, we find that his hands will no longer minister to the sick and his feet will no longer carry Him on errands of mercy. But we discover the power of prayer not only in how we should treat those who wrong and hate us, but also in the mindset to never regard any as beyond the reach of prayer. On no previous occasion did we find our Lord making a request that involved the Father’s forgiveness of others because our Lord forgave others Himself (Matthew 9:2, 6; Luke 7:48). It is at this moment where our Lord chooses not to utilize His Divine prerogative/authority on earth but instead utilizes the power of intercession because he is now a suppliant or a person making a humble plea to someone in power/authority—the Father. The Father’s forgiveness atones for the sins committed ignorantly, not only because of unawareness or the lack of understanding, but mainly because we minimize and reject the knowledge and power of God (Leviticus 5:15-16; Numbers 15:22-25; Psalms 19:12; 2Corinthians 10:5; 2Timothy 3:1-5)

 

2. The 1st place Jesus’ Blood was shed: In Gethsemane, Jesus won back our willpower. (Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:43-46) The blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good, and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life. Today, use your bought back will power to surrender control and to make up your mind to do God’s will (James 1:23-25).

 

3. The 1st of the 7 conversations after resurrection: “Greeting. Don’t be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” (Matt 28:8-10) “Woman why are you crying? Who is it you are looking looking for? . . . Mary . . .Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” (John 20:15-18)

 

Conversation number 1, is a message to His’ Inner Circle for direction. It is a message to the women, and it provides personal comfort to those seeking to serve. This conversation is occurring at the cemetery.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s begin.

 

 

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The Second of the Sevens:

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1. The 2nd of the 7 last sayings: Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise (Luke 22:43)

Repentance with godly sorrow and a received word of salvation, puts into execution the Eternal decree of God and fulfillment of His prophetic word (2Corinthians 7:10). Repentance is the realization of our lost condition or estate and the necessity of Christ’s salvation by grace through faith. Spend time examining yourself and determine whether you are honoring or dishonoring the work that Christ has done so that the lack of repentance does not release judgment or give Satan authority to make you weak.

 

2. The 2nd place Jesus’ Shed His Blood: The Stripes On Jesus’ back won back our health. (Isaiah 53:5) The blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life. Today, use your bought back health and healing to combat any sickness, curse, or disease. Be a walking and living miracle as you allow Holy Spirit to share with you the doors that are open giving the enemy permission to enter in. Command, Satan to leave in the name of Jesus.

 

3. The 2nd of the 7 conversations after resurrection: “What are you discussing together as you walk along? . . . “What things? . . . How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ suffer these things and then enter his glory? (Luke 24:13-26; cf Mark 16:12-13)

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Conversation number 2 is a message to Men in Ministry. We find our Lord conversing with two men walking together on the road to Emmaus and he takes time to correct their thinking about scripture and how it relates to ministry.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s continue.

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The Third of the Sevens:

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1. The 3rd of the 7 last sayings: “Woman, behold your son. Son, behold your mother,” (John 19:26–27) God’s perfecting process teaches us to stand so that we may set an example for others to honor and follow. It is indescribable to imagine what the mother of our Lord was enduring as she watched her son endure the cross. Mary’s internalized pain could be summarized in one phrase, “she suffered in unbroken sorrow.” According to scripture during the death of her son, she displayed no feminine weakness, no wild outcry of uncontrollable anguish, or fainting—not a word fell from her lips. The scripture also indicates that her sorrow began even before Christ birth (Luke 1:28-29, 38; Luke 2:29-35). And what can we say about the apostle John internalized process as he stood at the foot of the cross—despite the fact that all the other apostles ran or deserted Jesus because they were offended (Matthew 26:31). We should venture to question our fortitude in Christ when adversity or the inevitable happens. When Christ stated to the both of them to “behold” one another, we should surpass the understanding that Christ was leaving Mary and John in the comforts of each other but rather challenging them to observe (behold) each other’s conduct in a situation of adversity. Today, observe and take a lessen from the life of Mary and John and examine your own fortitude. 2.

 

2. The 3rd place Jesus’ Blood was shed: Jesus’ Crown of Thorns won back our prosperity in the way we think. (Genesis 3:17-19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:8) Try this wig on for size. The crown of thorns is our helmet of salvation against any imaginations or high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God (i.e., the cares of this world, deceitful ness of riches and lust for things) trying to enter our minds to choke the Word out. Therefore, our minds were redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus when they placed the crown of thorns on His head. His redemptive Blood won back our prosperity and the mind of Christ. Our ability to dream and utilize our imagination in a godly fashion is now endless (all things are possible to them that believe; without faith it is impossible to please him-Matthew 19:23-30; Hebrews 11:6). Again, the blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life. Today Free Your Mind.

 

3. The 3rd of the 7 conversations after resurrection: “Peace be with you.” . . . “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch and see me; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” . . . “Do you have anything here to eat?” . . . “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” . . . “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Your are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:35-43) “Peace be with you! . . . Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” . . . “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” (John 20:19-29)

 

Conversation number 3 is a message to His’ Disciples, men and women. Even after the confirmed reports from the women and the men of Emmaus, the disciples did not believe. It was a conversation of confirmation and reassurance. It also was directional and an introduction of the Holy Spirit. In other words, Revival was taking place. This conversation appeared behind closed doors.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s go.

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The Fourth of the Sevens:

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1. The 4th of the 7 last sayings: “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46 & Mark 15:34)

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Cry, with a loud voice. The beginning of the scripture in Matthew 27:46 states, “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, . . .” Today, I want you to focus on the words “with a loud voice” because these four words are repeated again in Matthew 27:50 when Christ yielded up the ghost. It is believed that these words indicate that our Savior was not exhausted by what he endured but rather, he was still in control of all faculties and that instead of being conquered by death, he was yielding Himself to it. For anyone that feels forsaken, encourage them to cry with a loud voice. Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Your cry is a sound that the war is not over yet and you have not yielded. Your cry is a sign that you are fully aware of what is going on in your situation and you are even stronger at the brink of death. God has not forsaken you, but He does get the right to watch you stand and fight with everything within you. Be strong in the Lord and the power of His might.

 

2. The 4th place Jesus’ Blood was shed: Jesus’ pierced Hands won back dominion over the things we touch. (Genesis 1:26-28) The Appropriate Touch. We are relational beings and we connect to one another through our five senses. Our bodies were created to experience the world and to interact interpersonally through our sensual connections. We come to understand the messages of the senses through our emotions. Therefore, any touch leaves either a positive or negative impression. But Christ has won back dominion over the things we touch. I reiterate the blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life. Today, lay hands on yourself in a godly way. Be mindful of who touches you today. If you sense the touch is negative, rebuke it in the name of Jesus and remember that Christ has his hand on you and that you are in the palms of His’ hand (Psalm 139:5; Isaiah 49:16). If there was an inappropriate touch from the past, bring into remembrance that God paid for that sin and ask Him to resend an appropriate touch so that the message would rewritten.

 

3. The 4th of the 7 conversations after resurrection: “Peace be with you!” . . . “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out you hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” . . . “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believed.” (John 20:26-29)

 

Conversation number 4 is a message to one particular disciple in closed quarters. Even after the confirmed reports from his fellowbrothers, Thomas still doubted and did not believe. It was a conversation of confirmation and reassurance but mainly a message about the power of belief.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s continue.

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The Fifth of the Sevens:

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1. The 5th of the7 last sayings: “I thirst.” John 19:28.

That the ‘scripture’ might be fulfilled. As Christ is Fully God and Fully Man, we were created to be ‘Full of God and Full of human.’ That is where the thirst lies. We have been given the privilege to experience the best of both worlds. When we spiritualize everything and deny our humanity, we a great injustice to ourselves and the experience that brings us closer to God. When we proclaim only our humanity (i.e., “Well, I’m only human!”) and deny our spirituality, a life that was designed to experience life and peace, will only attain the greatest reward of death (Romans 8:6). Death in this case signifies hostility and insubordination towards God and His standards. Therefore, we become prisoners to the cravings of an insatiable appetite. In other words, whatever we crave we desperately make every attempt to satisfy its desires—even though we know deep down that nothing good comes from it (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:18). When thirst is present it often indicates a disconnect from God, misunderstanding of His Word, or your relationship with the Lord is non-existent. Today, focus on making sure that your thirst is quenched by taking time to thoroughly allow Holy Spirit to open the eyes of your understanding so that you may experience the hope of His calling and the things he has in store for those who love Him (Ephesians 1:18-19).

 

2. The 5th place Jesus’ Blood was shed: Jesus pierced Feet won back dominion over the places we walk. (Deuteronomy 11:24; mark 16:15, 17-18) A jingle from Pete the Cat, “I got my red shoes, I got my red shoes.” When blood was shed from Christ’s feet He won back dominion over the places we walk (Deuteronomy 11:24). Furthermore, when we put on the whole armor of God, one element of our armor includes our feet being shodded with the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:10). The Blood speaks and even scientist confirms this notion through DNA testing. Therefore, begin walking through any area of your life, spiritually, mentally, and physically where there is no peace and proclaim the gospel in those areas. It doesn’t matter if it is your job, family, health, etc. Walk there and plead the blood of Christ. Again, the blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life.

 

3. The 5th of the 7 conversations after resurrection: “Children (Friends), haven’t you any fish?”. . . “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” . . . “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” . . . “Come and have breakfast.” (John 21:5-12)

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Conversation number 5 is a message to Children and or Friends of Christ. The focus is the importance of conversing during breakfast. How often do we miss opportunities to converse because we want to get our day started or we are distracted by electronic toys (i.e., phones, tablets, T.V.) This conversation is occurring on the shores or rather while the men are at work.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s continue.

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The Sixth of the Sevens:

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1. The 6th of the 7 last sayings: “It is finished.” (John 19:30)

The Game is ours. There is a proverb that states, “every cloud has its silver lining; even the darkest cloud of all.” A poet once said, “ . . . the game is ours, we’ll never foul out, ya’ll just better hope we gracefully bow out.” What are we to learn from those quotes and the words of our Lord? When we look at the remaining portion of the scripture above, it states, “. . . Then he bowed his head and died.” Wow, talk about holding your head held high in the midst of what seems like defeat. The implication of this scripture indicates that through out this whole process our Lord’s head was erect and he was not enduring his situation in shame. When you know who you are in Christ in addition to the purpose place upon your life, it results in you being confidently victorious in all things. At the end of every stage play the performers “take a bow.” The only time we gracefully bow out is when the job is done. Christ was so confident on the cross that He knew that He did not have to stick around for the remaining prophetic scriptures to be fulfilled (Zechariah 12:10, piercing with the spear; Psalm 34:20 the preserving of His bones unbroken; and Isaiah 53:9 the burial in the rich’s man grave.) Yet, he speaks anticipatively of the completion of His work. Today, begin speaking anticipatively over your life. The only way you can do this is with your head held high so that you can see what is to come.

 

2. The 6th place Jesus’ Blood was shed: Jesus’ pierced Heart won back our joy. (John 19:31-34; Luke 4:18; Nehemiah 8:10; Proverbs 6:30-31) You can’t take my joy devil. The opposite of sad is glad. The opposite of happiness is unhappiness. These two extremes cannot exist at the same time within a being. Joy is an attribute of God. GOD HAS NO OPPOSITES. The opposite of God IS NOT the devil. The opposite of God is God. We may not be able to be happy and unhappy at the same time, but we can experience Joy in the midst of sorrow (1Peter 1:6; 2Corinthians 6:10; Hebrews 12:1-2). Jesus came to heal the broken hearted. There is now no reason for your heart to be broken. Today use the power of REJOICING. If the devil steals your joy, the God of all creation has created you with the ability to create joy (rejoicing). Here another revelation, Christ was already dead when they pierced him with the spear. The Bible reports that out came blood and water—so for every hurt is the ability for life (water) to be regenerated. Put this in your spirit: the blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life.

 

3. The 6th of the 7 conversations after resurrection: Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” . . . “Feed my lambs.” “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” . . . “Take care of my sheep.” . . . “Simon son of John, do you love me?” . . . “Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” . . . “Follow me!” . . . “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”(John 21:15-23)

 

Conversation number 6 is a another personal message to one of His’ Disciples who feels guilt and shame for a previous wrongdoing as well as and his place in ministry. It is also a message about personal responsibility and and the dangers of insecurity—having to make a decision to do what God has ask even when no one else is doing it. This conversation is occurred after breakfast.

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Instructions: One has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s continue.

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The Seventh of the Sevens:

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1. The 7th last saying: “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)

Look to be made whole. What a blessed contrast! Scripture reveals that our humanity is comprised of three parts: spirit, soul, and body (1Thessalonians 5:23); and this concept was also evident in the beginning when God formed man out of clay and breathed into us and we became a living soul (Genesis 2). Even after the fall of mankind, our humanity was still intact. Consequently, disobedience disconnected us from our life source and our soul and body walked around with a dead weight or rather a dead spirit (Genesis 3; Colossians 2:13). In the last saying, God prophetically shares what is to become of our humanity, as we witness its dissection. For more than 12 hours Christ voluntarily hands Himself over to men, and now, he voluntarily delivers His Spirit into the hands of the Father (Matthew 17:22- 23; 26:45). Again, what a blessed contrast it is to know that we don’t have to fear anything that can only harm the body! When we commit our spirit to God, you can be rest assured. Today is your Sabbath and as you prepare for Resurrection Sunday I implore you to rest. Literally, put your work aside and spend the day enjoying the presence of the Lord.

 

2. The 7th place Jesus’ Blood was shed: Jesus’ Bruises won our deliverance from inner hurts and iniquities. (Isaiah 53:5) Internal bleeds and bruises qualifies as blood being shed. When our Saviour was punched and slapped all night (Matthew 26:67) every internal bleed and bruised covered any and all inner hurts and sins that are in your DNA—received and/or passed down generationally. For the Last Time: The blood of Jesus is the power source for our salvation and our freedom. We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus because his blood washes away every sin we ever committed. This means that we are no longer enemies of God (Romans 5) because we are in right relationship with God. If you want to overcome the enemy in any area of your life this must be done through the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11). God’s Word is good and the Blood makes it better! It is available for you so that we can be free in every part of our life. Today, make a list of all internal, emotional hurts and tell them that Christ died for them and I receive life.

 

3. The 7th conversation after resurrection before ascension: “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18- 20) Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people and they will get well.”(Mark 16:15- 18; cf. Luke 24:50-51)

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Conversation number 7 is a charge and release (commission) to any disciple, who willingly takes us their cross to follow Him. In this our Lord shares His’ mission and vision (heart). It is directional and focus driven. It is also the last time that our Lord would converse with us in this manner face to face. He and the Father speaks to us through our hearts by the Holy Spirit. This conversation is occurring on a mountain.

 

Finally, one has to appreciate the compassion of Christ even after such a devastating loss. The Bible reports that Christ was present on the earth after His resurrection and prior to His ascension for 40 days (Luke 24:31; Acts 1:1-11). The Bible also reports that Christ did so many things that it could not be recorded (John21:25). But it is amazing to know that Christ took time help us through the grieving process. He did not abandon us but continued to comfort us through this time of grief to ensure that we were able to put the pieces of the puzzle together. There are seven reported conversations in the Bible where Christ interacted with His’ people. These seven conversations are considered to be the very first words after His resurrection. This part of the devotion requires you to read the conversations in its entirety, following the theme of each conversation. Notice however, that there is some form of bonding and/or mutual activity occurring—whether it is by touch, eating, walking, or fellowship. Pay attention to the scenery and allow that to minister as well. Let’s continue to the next dimension.

 

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