ppeared to
them a tragic defeat. So true is it, as I said, that, when something
grand is to be seen, there is required not only the object but the
seeing eye. The image in a mirror depends not only on the object
reflected but on the quality and the configuration of the glass.

We wish, however, to see the scene enacted on Calvary in its true
shape; and where shall we look? There was one mind there in which it
was mirrored with perfect fidelity. If we could see the image of the
crucifixion in the mind of Jesus Himself, this would reveal its true
meaning.

But in what way can we ascertain how it appeared to Him, as from His
painful station He looked forth upon the scene? The answer is to be
found in the sentences which he uttered, as He hung, before His senses
were stifled by the mists of death. These are like windows through
which we can see what was passing in His mind. They are mere
fragments, of course; yet they are charged with eternal significance.
Words are always photographs, more or less true, of the mind which
utters them; these were the truest words ever uttered, and He who
uttered them stamped on them the image of Himself.

They are seven in number, and it will be to our advantage to linger on
them; they are too precious to be taken summarily. The sayings of the
dying are always impressive. We never forget the deathbed utterances
of a parent or a bosom friend; the last words of famous men are
treasured for ever. In Scripture Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and other
patriarchal men are represented as having risen on their deathbeds far
above themselves and spoken in the tones of a higher world; and in all
nations a prophetic importance has been attached to the words of the
dying. Now, these are the dying words of Christ; and, as all His words
are like gold to silver in comparison with those of other men, so
these, in comparison with the rest of His words, are as diamonds to
gold.

In the First Word three things are noticeable--the Invocation, the
Petition, and the Argument.

I.

It was not unusual for crucified persons to speak on the cross; but
their words usually consisted of wild expressions of pain or bootless
entreaties for release, curses against God or imprecations on those who
had inflicted their sufferings. When Jesus had recovered from the
swooning shock occasioned by the driving of the nails into His hands
and feet, His first utterance was a prayer, and His first word "Father."

Was it