Reflections On The Gospel Of John Sample

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS OVER… I’ve never really been a big fan of theatrical plays; however, I do recall attending my first play several years back. I never thought a live drama production could be so long, sitting for what appeared to be an eternity when in actuality the time spent was just a few hours. Don’t get me wrong it was a very good production; it just seemed a bit too long for me. And as with any good movie or television show, throughout the play there were shifts in the plot with various twists and turns that helped keep my attention. At one point a large curtain began to descend and the once dim lights were slowly illuminated. With excitement I thought to myself, “Surely this must be the end.” It was then that I realized this was merely an intermission and there were actually a few more acts with another two hours remaining; just when I thought it was over. Theatrical/drama productions are usually divided into acts (which are nothing more than divisions of drama) ranging anywhere from one to as many as five. And between every act, the curtain would descend giving the appearance or impression the end had come; however, the show was not over because there was always much more! Well, one of the greatest books ever written, a book that tops the bestseller’s list year after year (the Bible) is filled with wonderful stories of history, humor, practical application and drama. One of the best dramas written therein is Jesus’ journey to and the events associated with Calvary. A story filled with deception, betrayal, and ultimate victory. When Jesus cried out “It is finished” (JHN.19.30) as He hung on the cross, Satan thought he had achieved certain victory. Surely this would put an end to the prospect of a Messiah, a Savior and new King coming to rescue the Jews (God’s chosen people) from their oppressors; redemption of mankind from sin; and the bringing of salvation into the world. But contrary to what the enemy thought, these words came to signify so much more and actually produced new life. Just when you thought it was over, everything you have need of today is wrapped up in the three powerful words “IT IS FINISHED!”