The passage of Matthew 27:45-46 presents us with a moment of intense darkness that falls upon the earth, symbolizing not only a physical phenomenon but a profound spiritual meaning. From noon until three in the afternoon, the earth was enveloped in darkness, a clear sign of the gravity of what was happening on the cross. This darkness coincides with the sixth hour, a moment that, in the Jewish counting, represents the peak of the day. The fact that Jesus cried out to God at this critical moment invites us to reflect on the meaning of pain, abandonment, and the loneliness He experienced. It is a reminder that even at the height of our pain, God is present, even if sometimes we cannot perceive Him in our anguish.
By crying out "Eloí, Eloí, lamá sabactâni?", Jesus expresses a anguish that resonates deeply in human experiences. He not only asks a question but also identifies with the pain of humanity, which often feels abandoned in the midst of suffering. This quotation from Psalm 22, which begins with a similar question, invites us to consider how God is not indifferent to our suffering. The darkness that falls upon the earth is a reflection of the weight of sin that Jesus was carrying, and this identification with human pain is one of the deepest aspects of His ministry. In the midst of suffering, Jesus reveals the nature of a God who does not flee from pain but faces it directly to bring redemption to humanity.
The times mentioned in the passage are not accidental; they carry a historical and liturgical weight that helps us understand the depth of Christ's sacrifice. Noon, which marks the light of day, is the moment when darkness becomes most palpable, symbolizing the climax of sin and the need for atonement. The ninth hour, which represents the giving up of the spirit, is a call to reflection on the life of Jesus and His ministry, and how He completely gave Himself out of love for us. The movement from light to darkness, and then to surrender, teaches us about the journey of faith that we all must undertake. It is an invitation to look at the shadows in our lives and recognize that even when we feel that God has abandoned us, He is working behind the scenes for our good.
Finally, as we meditate on this crucial moment of the crucifixion, we are encouraged to remember that darkness does not have the final word. Jesus conquered death and darkness, and His resurrection is the living proof that, amidst the darkness, light will always prevail. When we face our own hours of pain and despair, may we remember Jesus' cry and the hope He brought us. If He can endure the darkness and still cry out to the Father, we can also trust that, even in our darkest moments, God is with us, ready to lead us to the light of His presence. Do not give up, for light always emerges after darkness!