{{item.title | uppercase}}

The last words shared with someone we love can be a treasure. I remember well the last words my husband shared with me and when I reflect on those moments my eyes always seem to fill with tears. Most of us do not realize last words will be the last words. For me, the emotions and mental images from that moment are powerful. I certainly expected to speak with my husband again. Had I known we would not have more time together to communicate and share our hearts, I would have planned out my words, shared my thoughts, and listened more carefully.

Recently I found myself reflecting on why final moments hold value. Often these words hold the wisdom and love of a lifetime. Scripture gives us a window into one of the final goodbyes and last words of a dying king and his rising son. David and Solomon shared those moments. David got personal after he shared practical advice for governing the kingdom. You can only imagine how an aged father might meet the eyes of a young and powerful King Solomon.

And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought.
1 Chronicles 28:9 (ESV)

The word “whole” here means total or complete. That contrast to a “part”, which would imply withholding your heart in some way. We know that David was referred to as the man after God’s own heart in Acts 13:22. He knew the pull of keeping parts of life to himself, and not devoting his life completely to God. There is a clear difference in the direction David and Solomon went as they reigned over the Israelites. While David had compromised at times, he responded with sincere repentance and found God ready and willing to restore. Solomon lived a life deep in compromise. He held a divided heart.

When we are facing the many struggles and difficulties of loss, living a life with a heart for the Lord can prove overwhelming. Daily we see repercussions of our loss and sometimes it seems to become a snowball of tasks and emotions to manage and accept. We are faced with a choice to seek the Lord in each day, or to compromise, numb the pain or focus on ourselves.

While there are many lives and leaders found to consider last words, the most important last words are those of Jesus. Here are two of the seven different times He spoke from the cross before His death. These last words from Jesus while hanging on the cross start with forgiveness and lead to salvation. As we look to the gospels, remember that it was significant to the Lord that we know of His love, forgiveness and ability to provide hope for us.

“Father, forgive them…”
Luke 23:34 (NASV)

and

“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”
Luke 23:46 (ESV)

God’s word really holds the Last Word on life. After those words found in Luke, Jesus breathed His last. He wanted God to provide forgiveness for the lost souls killing Him. He accomplished and completed His work and purpose to provide salvation for all who believe. No more additions, or changes, or adjustments were needed. Jesus, His life, and His words impacted many. We need help to keep our hearts focused on God’s purpose for us. When we have a heart that loves and desires a deep walk with God, we can see the benefits and blessings that God has for us even as we navigate the valley of loss.

Lord,

Because of Jesus’ wholehearted love for us, we know we can come with our pain and our broken hearts. Make us whole. Provide peace and walk with us through this valley of loss. Help us to forgive others as You have forgiven us. Thank you for the life and grace you provide for us. Your purpose for our lives is beyond what we could imagine or create. As we look to You for hope and believe Your promises, let our lives bring You glory. Show us Your purpose as we serve You with our whole heart.

In Jesus Name, Amen