Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God. Psalm 31:5

Dear brothers & sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ the Lord and Savior. Amen.

Many of us realize that Jesus quoted David in the form of Psalm 22 from the cross. He also quoted Psalm 31. Those who were witnessing the events at Golgotha would have recognized the familiar words of the Psalmist. Most would have heard the whole of the Psalm as they heard Jesus’ final committal.

They would have heard the words of trust and promise. As Jesus hung on the cross, he continued to trust in God’s promise. No matter what (including what was currently happening to him), God would deliver Him. Even in pain and suffering and what seemed like complete and utter abandonment, Jesus was confident that God was in charge. Jesus knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that no matter how horrific and hopeless a situation appears, God is faithful. Despite what the world thought and vocalized, God had His back.

Life is full of crosses. We face grief, illness, fear and a myriad of other things in life that fight to rip our hearts and minds out of God’s grasp. This fallen world opposes the faith God has given us. Sin, death and evil want to win. The malevolent forces of this world seek to destroy us in body and soul.

We claim with the apostle Paul, ^“… in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:37-39)

God has shown us in the crucifixion how far He will go. He has shown us in the resurrection, the consequence of His profound actions. Jesus defeats all things that oppose the coming of God’s kingdom. Jesus conquers over any and all hostile forces in the world and in your life. Christ brings you back into the loving embrace of the Father Almighty.

God has your back. Hear God’s promise to you. He has redeemed you. He gives you courage and strength. God will continue to take care of you no matter what crosses you face. He is faithful. His strength and courage will carry your burdens. His wisdom will guide you. His love and mercy will redeem you. Commend your spirits to Christ, confident and trusting that in heaven, on earth and your life, Jesus prevails over all things.

The grace and peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Carla

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord. Psalm 31:24