Introduction

This sermon focuses on Jesus' statement "I thirst" from John 19:28-29. This saying is unique to the Gospel of John and holds deeper meaning than what meets the eye. John's Gospel is known for its depth and hidden layers of significance. In the first seven chapters, often referred to as the Book of Signs, John presents seven miracles performed by Jesus. Each miracle not only addresses a specific situation or illness but also reveals Jesus' identity as the Messiah, the Son of God. Similarly, Jesus' statement "I thirst" carries profound symbolism.

Jesus' Humanity

During crucifixions, individuals often died from exhaustion and dehydration. Jesus' words indicate his growing thirst and the response of those around him is recorded in the Gospels. Jesus is offered wine three times on the day of his crucifixion. The first instance occurs when he is carrying the cross, as mentioned in Mark and Matthew. In Matthew's account, he is offered a cup of wine mixed with gall, which may have acted as a poison to hasten his death and alleviate his suffering. However, Jesus refuses to drink it, demonstrating the high cost of sin and the need for him to suffer for humanity's redemption. This refusal exemplifies the self-denial and cross-bearing that Jesus taught his disciples. It also highlights the redemptive power of suffering.

Secondly, we witness Jesus' humanity. These words reveal his suffering and allow us to glimpse his human side. Last week, we saw another aspect of Jesus' humanity when he entrusted the care of his mother, Mary, to John. Jesus' concern for his mother's well-being, even in his final hours, highlights his human needs and emotions. Often, we overlook Jesus' physical and emotional needs in his life and ministry, but these words from the cross provide a window into his humanity. John includes this detail in his Gospel because he was present at the crucifixion and wanted to emphasize Jesus' humanity to all readers.

Jesus' Messiahship

Secondly, we witness Jesus' Messiahship. In today's Gospel passage, it is stated that Jesus spoke these words "that the Scripture might be fulfilled." Jesus was not the only one in his time claiming to be the Messiah, causing confusion among the people regarding the true Messiah's identity. However, through his words on the cross, Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies, confirming his true identity as the Messiah. Jesus fulfilled over 300 prophecies in his life and death, with more than 100 specifically related to his crucifixion. These prophecies include betrayal by a friend, abandonment by his disciples, false accusations, silence before judges, guiltlessness, death with transgressors, taunting, gambling for garments, praying for enemies, forsakenness by God, thirstiness, yielding himself to God, unbroken bones, and burial in a rich man's grave. The fulfillment of these prophecies affirms Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah spoken of by the Old Testament prophets.

Thirst for Salvation

Thirdly, we witness Jesus' thirst for the salvation of the world. The Passover celebration commemorates God's protection of the Israelites and their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. During this celebration, four cups of wine are traditionally consumed: the Cup of Sanctification, the Cup of Deliverance, the Cup of Redemption, and the Cup of Restoration. At the Last Supper, Jesus referred to his blood as the New Covenant, emphasizing his role in redemption. When Jesus says, "I thirst," he expresses his readiness to die for the redemption of the world. His thirst symbolizes his longing for redemption to be fulfilled.

Living Water

Fourthly, we witness Jesus as the Living Water. In John 4, Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman at a well and offers her living water that will quench her spiritual thirst forever. Jesus declares himself as the source of this living water, capable of satisfying the deepest longings of the soul. However, even as the Living Water, Jesus now hangs on the cross, near death and thirsty. This realization should deeply move us. We have killed the only true source of Living Water. This prompts us to reflect on what we are thirsting for in our own lives. Are we chasing after things we believe will bring happiness and satisfaction? Do we think that the next job, promotion, house, or spouse will truly fulfill our deepest longings? Jesus' words remind us that the only one who can satisfy our soul's deepest thirst is hanging on the cross. Are we willing to drink from him and find true satisfaction? What are we truly thirsty for?

Taking Risks of Faith

Lastly, Jesus calls us to take great risks of faith. In response to Jesus' statement "I thirst," someone in the crowd musters enough strength and faith to offer him a sponge soaked in wine. This act of compassion takes place amidst an angry mob gathered at the foot of the cross. Similarly, Jesus charges us to look for those in need around us and respond by sharing physical water and spiritual living water. We are called to take risks for those in need, just as Arthur risked punishment to help his friend Skinner in a prisoner of war camp. Jesus teaches us to respond to the needs of others with compassion and selflessness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jesus' statement "I thirst" holds profound meaning. It reveals his humanity, confirms his Messiahship through the fulfillment of prophecies, expresses his thirst for the salvation of the world, symbolizes his role as the Living Water, and calls us to take risks of faith in responding to the needs of others. May we reflect on our own thirst and seek true satisfaction in Jesus, the only one who can quench our deepest longings. Amen.

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