Submitted by
S. Daly

Age Group
9-14

Aim
To think about the words Jesus spoke on the cross

Faith Group
Christian

Resources
A crucifix

Time of Year
Lent, Holy Week

Script
1. Today we are going to think about what Jesus said as he hung on the cross. This is traditionally called the 'Seven Words from the Cross'.
None of the four Evangelists, (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), mention all 'Seven Words'. They are compiled from the four Gospels.

2. The first three 'Words' were spoken in fairly quick succession, after Jesus was nailed to the cross. These 'Words' show concern for others.

3. Jesus firstly spoke about the soldiers and the crowd: Father forgive them, for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34)

4. Then he spoke to the repentant thief: Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise. (Luke 23:43)

5. And then to Mary his mother and John the Disciple: Woman, behold your son. Behold your mother. (John 19:26-27)

6. Then came the long silence and gathering gloom, broken by Jesus's cry of dereliction:

PAUSE

7. My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Matthew 27:46)

PAUSE

8. That and the last three 'Words' are concerned with Jesus himself.

9. I thirst. (John 19:28)

PAUSE

10. It is finished. (John 19:30)

PAUSE

11. Father, into thy hands, I commit my spirit! (Luke 23:46)

PAUSE

EXIT TO SILENCE