‘It is finished.’
These were the last words uttered by Jesus before dying on the cross (John 19:30). With these words, the Son of God breathed his last breath and gave up his spirit. These words mark the darkest moment in all human history.
‘It is finished.’ Words of sorrow and despair.
Yet, at the same time, they signal an entirely new beginning. With his resurrection on that first Easter Sunday, Christ won the victory over death and darkness – paving the way for everyone to be reconciled and restored.
‘It is finished’ have now become words of victory, of life, of hope, of restoration, of freedom and of peace. Death does not have the final say; Jesus does.
As we celebrate the resurrection of the Lord this Easter, may we be filled with fresh faith that God can bring mighty victories from what looks like defeat. The ultimate battle has already been won.
With this confidence, join us in praying:
- For Christian communities around the world who are prevented from attending Easter services, or are unable to celebrate freely and safely. May they be filled with the joy of the resurrection and strengthened with hope for change.
- That Christians imprisoned for their faith would know the risen Lord Jesus as their comforter and companion. Pray also for the unconditional release of everyone unjustly imprisoned in connection with their religion or belief.
- For the safety and protection of faith communities in countries like Nigeria, who are particularly at risk of attacks during this Easter season.
- For healing and restoration for the survivors of previous Easter attacks, and for those whose loved ones were killed. We think especially of Sri Lanka in 2019, and Pakistan in 2015 and 2016.
- That God would bring unprecedented transformation wherever freedom of religion or belief is being violated. (You may want to focus on the countries featured in Response magazine.)
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