GOOD FRIDAY

This week we will remember the significance of Good Friday, the day that Jesus was crucified.

It was a day of great suffering and sacrifice, but it was also a day of profound love and redemption. As we reflect on this day, we can draw encouragement from the story of Good Friday.

As we read in John 19:17-18, Jesus was led away to be crucified, carrying His own cross. This image of Jesus carrying His cross is a powerful reminder that He willingly took on the burden of our sin. He did not have to suffer and die for us, but He chose to do so out of love for you and me.

This act of sacrificial love is the ultimate example of selflessness that we can emulate in our own lives. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross should inspire us to be selfless and to serve others, just as He did.

As I remember Good Friday, I am always amazed at the forgiveness that Jesus extended to those who actually crucified Him. In Luke 23:34, we read that Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” This powerful statement demonstrates Jesus’ incredible love and mercy, even in the face of unspeakable cruelty.

As Christians, we are called to extend that same forgiveness and love to others, no matter how difficult it may be. Jesus’ example reminds us that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but rather a reflection of our strength and faith.

While it is often hard to explain the concept of this dark day being “good” to others, for Christians, we get to remember that Good Friday is also a day of hope.
Although Jesus was crucified and died on the cross, that was not the end of the story. Three days later, He rose from the dead, defeating death and sin once and for all.

As believers, we can have eternal hope in the knowledge that our sins are forgiven and that we have eternal life through Christ. As we face the trials and difficulties of life, we can cling to this hope and trust that God is with us, even in our darkest moments.

Finally, Good Friday is a reminder of God’s great love for us. As John 3:16 famously states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”
This verse is known globally because it so perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Gospel message – that God loved us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His own Son for our sake.

This love is unconditional and unchanging, and it is a source of comfort and strength for us as we navigate life’s challenges.

Friends, as we remember the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross, may we be inspired by His example to live lives of selflessness, forgiveness, hope, and love.

Let us never forget the incredible sacrifice He made for us, and may we always be grateful for God’s great love for us.