Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Every breath is a struggle. Wheezing, Jesus whispers in a barely audible voice, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” One more gasping breath, and it is finished. A soldier jams a spear between His ribs as a test, and the blood and water that issue forth show conclusively that the Savior of the world is indeed dead. The price is paid. We are redeemed.