People from all around the world observe Good Friday in different ways—by fasting, praying or attending a church service from noon to 3 p.m., the time in which Jesus was hung on the cross. In some countries, churches even re-enact the procession of the cross as in the ritual of the Stations of the Cross, which depicts the final hours of Jesus’ life.
Unlike the celebratory spirit on Easter, Good Friday is a day to reflect and pray. Most people, when contemplating the story of the crucifixion, feel perplexed, confused and disturbed, which is only natural. The crucifixion was a method of capital punishment in which the victim was left to hang until death. However, if we examine the deeper meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice, we find love. In doing so, we discover a new narrative—a transforming and life-changing message of love.
Jesus loved the people He met, served, taught and healed. He surrounded himself with all types of people: the poor, broken, hurting, powerful and religious. Jesus’ love for all people is what leads him to the cross. He said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). While Jesus hung on the cross, He expressed His love to the crowd that mocked Him and assured one of the thieves who hung on a cross next to Him that he would soon be with Him in paradise.
Jesus Christ gave His life so that we could live abundantly. His love frees us from our sins, heals us from our hurts and reconnects us with God. The love Jesus expressed at the cross is faithful, steadfast and never ending. It flows from His heart into our lives, changing us and our narrative. No matter how sad Good Friday may seem, let us remember, no greater love can be found than the one we find at the cross. When you think of Good Friday, what word comes to your mind? Please share with us.
Lord, thank You for Your love that changes us daily.
