S – About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Elí, Elí, lemá sabachtháni?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

 Christian Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2020), Mt 27:46.

O – Commentary: Here Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1, which may have been part of the Scripture recitation at this time of day. His opponents do not pause to consider that the psalm ends with the sufferer’s vindication and triumph (Ps 22:25–31).

The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament, Second Edition.

A –  Jesus experienced what it means to be forsaken by God.  Yet, Hebrews 13:5 says, “I will never, never leave you nor forsake you.”  His sacrifice means we do not have to experience what it means to be separated from God.  We have a choice – He has done His part.

R – Lord, I am grateful for the cross and Jesus’ crucifixion.  In taking my sin, He allows me to be in a relationship with You.  Thank you for the forgiveness of my sins through the blood of Christ.  I choose to walk under the direction of the Holy Spirit today.