Two thoughtful Christian writers meditate on Jesus' biblical "seven last words" from the cross, a classic form of Christian devotion, in recent little books: "Cross-Shattered Christ" (Brazos) by Duke ...

Editor’s note: For more than 20 years, Father Raymond de Souza has preached the “Seven Last Words” devotion, a traditional meditation on the seven times Jesus speaks from the cross on Good Friday.

You have to draw close to hear the words, for a crucified man struggles to speak, his lungs crushed under the pressure of his own weight, even as his body screams to him in pain. During these hours ...