In Matthew 27:46, we find a moment of profound anguish and depth in the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion. The verse reads: “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’”

This verse is a direct quotation from Psalm 22:1, demonstrating a deep connection between Jesus’ experience on the cross and the Psalms, which are often seen as prayers or songs expressing a wide range of human emotions to God, including despair, hope, and trust. By quoting this Psalm, Jesus expresses the depth of His suffering and the feeling of abandonment at that moment.

This cry is significant for several reasons:

1. Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus’ use of Psalm 22 underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. The Psalm, written by David, contains vivid imagery and descriptions that align with the circumstances of Jesus’ crucifixion, emphasizing that Jesus is indeed the promised Messiah.
2. Expression of True Human Emotion: Jesus, fully divine, was also fully human. This moment on the cross highlights His humanity, as He experiences the weight of the world’s sin, suffering, and the sense of separation from the Father. It shows that Jesus fully experienced the breadth of human suffering and emotion.
3. Theological Depth: This moment is theologically rich, pointing to the mystery of the Trinity and the profound sacrifice of Jesus. In bearing the sins of humanity, there was a moment of profound spiritual agony that Jesus experienced, which is beyond full human comprehension. It signifies the cost of sin and the depth of God’s love in sending His Son to bear the punishment humanity deserved.
4. Hope and Victory: While this moment is one of despair, it is not the end of the story. Jesus’ death and subsequent resurrection are central to Christian faith, symbolizing the defeat of sin and death and the promise of eternal life for those who believe in Him.

In reflecting on Matthew 27:46, believers are invited to consider the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice, the reality of human suffering, and the hope that comes from God’s love and redemption. It’s a call to faith, trust, and gratitude, acknowledging the profound love God has for humanity, demonstrated through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.