I wanted my post for Good Friday to be perfect–to be exactly what the Lord wanted me to say. I prayed and asked Him to speak to me and help me.
To prepare, I watched the last few episodes of the History Channel’s “The Bible” which depicts Jesus’ final moments on earth before He went to the cross until His ascension back to Heaven.
It was difficult for me to watch as Jesus was beaten so severely, mocked and suffered for something He did not deserve. But He knew the Father’s will, and he submitted.
He died on the cross for our sins that we might one day accept Him as our personal Lord and Savior. His death was gruesome but necessary to pay the debt of blood shed for the sacrifice of our sins.
The Good News came three days after Good Friday. On Easter morning, inside the tomb…Jesus arose! The grave could not keep Him down. Could you imagine being inside His tomb and witnessing Jesus being raised from the dead?
He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. (Matthew 28:6, NIV)
The disciples did not really understand what Jesus meant when He said He would return in three days. I was raw with emotions and tears as I watched the scene as Jesus entered the room where they were. He compassionately looked at them and touched them on their heads.
They were amazed they saw Him after His resurrection. The joy they must have felt and the drive they must have had, to go into the world and proclaim the good news because of what they saw. I cannot imagine their emotions!
We have not seen the risen Lord but still have faith. “Because you see me–you believe. Blessed are those who have not seen me and yet have believed.” I love this line Jesus said in the movie to his disciples.
I don’t need to physically see Jesus. He resides in my heart. He helps me, guides me and speaks to me. He is there for me, and oh how I know He loves me.
This Easter weekend, may we reflect on the sacrifice He made for us. May it drive our passion to continue to proclaim the gospel to others.
He has not made His final return to gather His people to take them home with Him. There is still more time to bring others into the fold. Tell someone about Him today. Happy Easter!