Luke 23 v 44 – 49 – Father I place into your hands 

Luke 23 v 44–49 describes the death of Jesus, marked by three hours of darkness (noon to 3 p.m.), the temple curtain tearing,

and Jesus commending his spirit to the Father.
A centurion declares Jesus innocent, crowds depart in sorrow, and followers, including women from Galilee, watch from a distance.

What do you think your last words would be? Luke wants to present the evidence and eyewitness accounts. He wants the audience to know that the words of Jesus were not a mistake or wrong, but true.

Last words said v 44 – 46 – ‘It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, for the sun stopped shining, and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last, a final act of trust and surrender.

These words were spoken at the ninth hour (3 p.m.) after three hours of darkness and represent a final act of trust, a voluntary surrender, and intimacy with God, immediately following the tearing of the temple curtain. The significance of this quotation from Psalm 31:5 shows Jesus is in control of his death, entrusting himself to the Father rather than showing defeat. Jesus would have known this Psalm as it was used by children as a night-time prayer.

Last words seen and heard v 47 – 48 – The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, “Surely this was a righteous man,” he recognised who Jesus was and has seen God at work. Jesus clarifies that his purpose is to save the world, not to condemn it, during this mission. Jesus notes that the words he has spoken will serve as the judge on the last day for those who reject him. Rejection of Jesus’ message constitutes a personal rejection, making individuals accountable to the word they disregarded. Many people came out as a form of entertainment to watch; however, they went home disturbed, shocked, sad and thoughtful.

Last words thought v 49 – This verse describes the reaction of Jesus’ acquaintances and the women who followed him from Galilee during his crucifixion. They stood at a distance,
watching the events unfold.

This verse highlights their witness to his death, both their loyalty in staying and their fear or distance in not approaching the cross.
The women are singled out as they stood at a distance, they were the last at the cross but the first to arrive at the tomb on easter morning.

Conclusion – The crucifixion was not just another messy death but the hope of the world. Galatians 2 v 20 says, I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God.

Prayer – Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude, humbled by the truth that I no longer live for myself, but Christ lives in me. Lord, I surrender my will, my desires, and my burdens at Your feet, knowing that my life belongs to You.

Amen