When you consider the various commitments you have made throughout your life, it was likely the commitment was made at the beginning. Who makes a commitment at the end? Yet, Jesus commits his spirit into the hands of his heavenly Father at the end of his life. What can this teach us about our commitment to God?

Jesus’ prayer (taken from Psalm 31:5) was a continuation of the same commitment he demonstrated throughout his life. Only in this context, he was under unimaginable pressure and suffering excruciating pain. Jesus’ commitment teaches us that we too can have complete confidence in our Father despite facing uncertainty, pressure to justify ourselves, or the fear of failure. It also teaches us that when we are suffering, our confidence in God gives us the ability to show self-control, not by simply avoiding doing what is wrong, but also doing what is right.

As you “see” Christ on the cross and consider his commitment to his Father, you may respond similarly to one of the four witnesses Luke describes. Perhaps you are like:

• Creation (referring to darkness that came over the land, the tearing of the temple veil, and earthquake): You are motivated to act on behalf of injustice.
• The roman centurion: Though once skeptical, you are surprised to hear yourself say, “This man is the son of God!”
• The crowds: You have previously criticized God’s ways, but now you regret your judgment.
• Those who “knew” Jesus: Recent events have left you disillusioned, you are scared to trust God, and so you intentionally keep a safe distance.

In any of these situations, call out to God with a loud voice, declare your confidence in him, and demonstrate that confidence by maintaining self-control as you love others in the midst of uncertainty and difficulty.