Reflection on Jn 19:28-29

“Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” Now a vessel full of sour wine was standing there;and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth.”

Jesus feels physical thirst caused by the loss of blood during the scourging and crucifixion. However, He also experiences spiritual thirst. He thirsts for the accomplishment of the work of redemption and love: “God so loved the world (you) that He gave His only begotten Son…” Jesus fervently desires to finish the work of salvation. But He also thirsts in you – He thirsts for your love, He desires you to be spiritually transformed, to be in spiritual union with Him. This is the way of following and the way of the cross. It requires daily self-denial in small matters.

Jesus desires, thirsts for the accomplishment of salvation on our part as well. He longs for the purification of His Mystical Body, which is His Church. Sad to say, many have become paralysed members of the Mystical Body due to heresies, occultism and immorality. Some have already been completely separated by apostasy. Jesus thirsts, deeply desires these souls to return, not to languish in the bondage of sin, lies or various addictions. Jesus desires their deliverance and the accomplishment of salvation in the glory of heaven. Jesus fights for every soul. He seeks the faithful who will carry out spiritual mission in prayer. This is a mission for your nation, especially in the prayer of faith when you lift up spiritual mountains and in the prophetic prayer for spiritual resurrection of your nation through repentance. The prayer of every one of you counts. You will see the fruit in eternity. Persevere! Be with Jesus! Be with Him and thirst with Him for the salvation of souls.

Download: Reflection on Jn 19:28-29