Friday; April 19

How could anything good come from that Friday?  It began Thursday night when a posse came into the garden where Jesus had been praying with His disciples and arrested Him.  From there they took Him through a series of trials filled with trumped-up charges, ill-prepared prosecutors and lying witnesses.  The night was capped off by political posturing, deal-making and mob rule.  By the time Friday morning came, Jesus was on His way to the cross.  The Messiah and Lord would spend several hours exposed to pain and ridicule, then finally and mercifully, He was allowed to give up His life and accept the peace that came with death.  So, in light of all that happened on the Friday, what good was it?  Well, the answer seems to come, “... when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!’ And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” (John 19:30).  You see, at this moment the sacrifice had been completed and mankind’s hope had been restored.  Yes, it would take a couple of days for the process to be completed with Jesus’ resurrection, but He had finished what had been required of Him.  In a sense, it really was a good Friday.

What are we planning on doing this weekend?  Many families will hide (and find) eggs and others will share a meal together.  Some people will break out their favorite clothes and others will sport brand new dresses or suits.  There will be a lot of food cooked, eggs colored, chocolate eaten and flowers arranged.  While this is all fun and games, let’s not forget that Sunday is a day that reminds us to what lengths our Lord was willing to go to make sure we live full, hope-filled, abundant lives.  We celebrate this Sunday (and really every Sunday) because of an empty grave and a risen Savior.

Let’s make sure that we take the time to worship the Lord and honor His memory this weekend.  It is the least we can do show our appreciation for what He was willing to do for us.

Think About It!

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