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.
John 19:28-30 NIV
Bowed His Head
Tours by members of the Royal Family are special occasions for Canadians to participate in events and celebrations. According to official protocol, the King is called “Your Majesty” initially and “Sir” as the conversation continues. Other members of the Royal Family are called “Your Royal Highness” initially and “Sir/Ma’am” as the conversation continues. Canadians may choose whether or not they wish to bow/curtsey or simply shake hands when meeting the King. General courtesy dictates that these gestures of greeting are the most appropriate and always welcomed.
***
People bow their heads for all sorts of reasons – as a sign of respect, as a mark of humility or as the recognition that a task had been completed. Today is Good Friday, the most solemn of days on the Christian calendar. On the original Good Friday, Jesus bows his head. Everything that He had come to accomplish had been completed. John 19:28-30 tells us how it all ends: “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.” If a human being can feel the satisfaction of a completed task well done, imagine how Jesus felt when He had completed the task that had been His since before the creation of the world. The work of redemption was done, the will of God had been completed perfectly. So, He bowed His head.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley