The Seven Last Words of Christ: A Bible Study on Jesus' Passion Paperback – Illustrated, September 1, 2004

I bought this to prepare to participate in part of a group discussion on "The Seven Last Words of Christ." I found this a great tool that any group could use to adequately break into this mysterious exercise normally left to the most experienced of preachers.Each individual section provides the Sacred Scripture, a quote from a well-known writer/speaker and/or a relevant reflection, a series of questions for personal reflection, and a true story to summarize Jesus' words in a real-life situation.I found this very effective. For instance, when Jesus asks for forgiveness, "Father, forgive them...," the author uses Father Richard John Neuhaus who lists all who Jesus would have had in mind. Surprisingly, he ends with, "And for us he asks forgiveness, for we were there" (see  Death on a Friday Afternoon: Meditations on the Last Words of Jesus from the Cross ). This then becomes something we really need to reflect on. This is powerful in showing that each of us played a part in this. It is not just "them." Jesus went to the cross for me and you. This is coupled with a real-life example on betrayal and the difficulty of forgiveness. It shows how the Lord must open our eyes to see our faults and how we really need the same forgiveness that we refuse to give to others -- a difficult but genuine lesson for any of us to begin to see and grasp. There are others too, for example: we are Dismas; we also enter into the pain of separation Jesus experienced with his Mother; etc.It's a simple presentation that can have a moving effect. It is not overdone. It allows plenty of room for us to enter the picture and see ourselves in the light of this aspect of the Passion of Jesus.It is moderately priced for groups with Amazon's "4-for-3 promotion."

Aside from the quality of the content, I bought a used one n it’s just like a new book. Very satisfied

This book was used and had notes written all over the inside! Not accurate description!

Personal use for reflecting on the Easter season Thank you

I utilized this book for a Lenten Faith Sharing group in our Parish of Our Lady of the Valley in Schoharie, NY. Everyone found the book to be inspiring and easy to navigate in respect to reflection and discussion. I especially liked the connections made between the "Seven Last Words" of Jesus and other Scripture passages, ie The Prodigal Son, The Last Judgment, The Woman at the well; etc. The experience of the crucifixion was the culmination of Jesus' mission of redemption, salvation and the establishment of His Kingdom on earth.

This study deepens the Catholic Christian's experience of Lent. It's wonderful to do as a small group. You can get the free leader's guide at emmausjourney.org, which is really helpful. The notes section is a great place to write down insights and prayer requests. The questions are in depth and encourage thoughtful answers. I highly recommend this study.

good message yet not exactly what I expected

This book was just what our small church group needed during Lent. It led right up to Easter with seven lessons that really explore the last days of Jesus' earthly life. I personally enjoyed the lesson about Jesus' Mother Mary and her role as supporter, follower and revered Mother. Highly recommended as well as the other books in this series.