As we enter the final moments of contemplative remembrance of our Lord’s suffering, I am apt to write in the refrain of my culture’s time-honored homegoing tradition - BE IT RESOLVED! 

When Jesus utters, “It is finished”, it is not simply a declaration of current fact for what his physical sacrifice capitulated in the spirit. But also projects a promise to ignite believers’ perseverance and audacious assurance today. Because of Christ’s redemptive work and surrender upon the cross that made way for resurrection power, we today have an eschatological fortitude - a hope-filled perseverance founded in the finished work of Jesus, that guides our motives, desires, and actions to echo and demonstrate a “righteous and resurrected resolve.”

Though faced with pressures, uncertainty, and chaos on every hand in the communities wherein we have been graced to dwell, we need not fret what the “end” will be. Those in Christ have blessed assurance that Christ will fill every void (Simon bar Jonah), present himself at every space of doubt (Thomas), and compassionately comfort every corrosive crevice of despair (Mary of Magdala); He will complete it! The Apostle Paul affirms this eschatological fortitude when he declares, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns (Philippians 1:6 NLT).” You who are thirsty in this dry and weary land, trust that the Alpha always has the goodness of Omega in mind. 

So, whereas the death of Jesus of Nazareth does not diminish the profound benediction of a life lived in such Godly service, nor taint our admiration for his example. 

And whereas, Jesus of Nazareth’s legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire generations and every member of his beloved Church until he comes again. 

BE IT RESOLVED, death cannot hold him down.

BE IT RESOLVED, sin's power is swallowed up in Jesus' victory.

BE IT RESOLVED, Satan is a liar and is already defeated.

BE IT RESOLVED, by HIS stripes we are healed.

BE IT RESOLVED, my debts have been paid in full. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, we’ve been redeemed by the blood of the lamb. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, justice shall roll down like a mighty raging stream.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the blood still works. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, there is no more condemnation for them that believe.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, you are loved immensely. 

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, JESUS IS LORD!

This resolution may appear to go into the grave on a peculiar Friday, and the quiet stillness of Saturday may make you uneasy, but early on that radiant Sunday morning, HE shall appear just like he said, for it is resolved. 

Today, as you face this life’s vicissitudes and even its levities, take your anointed place of reconciliation and stand in this Resolve. At every breach, or boisterous rebellion, let your soul echo It is finished; It is done; BE IT RESOLVED!