January 4, 2021 -- John 19:30 -- Victory

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 English Standard Version

Jesus, fully God and fully man, laid down His life. He gave up HIs Spirit into the hands of HIs Father in heaven. No one could take His life from Him. By saying “It is finished” Jesus was declaring the wrath of God had been fully spent on His Person—He suffered in our place and was then prepared to die so that even death itself would have no power over those who believe in Jesus. Do you feel, already at the start of this year, as if you are defeated? As if your old sins aren’t “last year” but right now? Look to the victory of Jesus. It is victory given for the glory of the Father and your blessing.

Why the note that Jesus took sour wine? For me it made clear last verse of the enthronement psalm, Psalm 110. When the LORD of Heaven and Earth sets up His King, this King will judge the nations and shatter chiefs—and it ends “He [this new King] will drink from the brook by the way; therefore he will lift up his head.” The warrior, exhausted from battle, will take a bit of refreshment, enough to wet his lips so that he can shout victory. Jesus shouted victory, ‘it is finished’ and His head was lifted in victory. This is the victory over sin and old habits and addictions. Christ has defeated them! Take heart, drink from the Living Water, which is Jesus Himself—refreshed by His Word and Spirit and shout in praise and thanks to God the Father.

Given Your great victory Jesus, it is possible for believers to live out Psalm 4:

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep;

for You alone make me dwell in safety”.

Blessed be Your Name, Father of all Good.

Blessed be Your Name, Jesus, the Warrior-King.

Blessed be Your Name, Spirit of God Who leads us into all truth. Amen.

https://youtu.be/M49w4uPOEZU