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Scripture: Luke 23:46: Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last. Abridged: Perseverance in the face of suffering and hardship for something we cannot see or understand is evidence of faith. Meditation: Perseverance in attaining a goal we see and want is a testament to our human fortitude. Perseverance in the face of suffering and hardship for something we cannot see or understand is evidence of faith. The difference between human fortitude and divine faith is our ability to perceive the presence of God in all situations. Our human will can overcome many obstacles and achieve great heights, and there may be many times in our life when we receive reward for our perseverance. But when we persevere during a time when there is no visible reward in sight, and the goal may require self-sacrifice, our human will becomes useless and our faith in God becomes essential. The ultimate test of faith for each of us comes at a time when we must persevere with only our assurance of God’s love and presence as we carry a burden so great that it requires us to depend entirely on the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the task. When we utter in our heart and soul the last words of Jesus ("Into your hands I commend my spirit" – Luke 23:46), we move beyond self and into a blessed unity with God. Prayer: It is so difficult to live according to all of your Commandments. Anger and resentment tarnish your call to unity and love among all people. The wounds and scars from the past can calcify our heart and not allow the soft, sweet feeling of love we all desire. Help us to let go of all the lingering pain, Merciful God, so that we can love our enemies and truly forgive injustices that have been done to us. Help us to overcome the need for revenge with a desire to live in the peaceful unity of your Holy Spirit. Help us to replace pride and ego with a love that embraces all of your creation. Only by the power of your loving grace can this happen, Lord. Let it fill us, mold us and transform us this very day. In the name of Jesus. Amen Enter password: .