Why is Good Friday referred to as “good”? What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good (see Matthew chapters 26-27). However, the results of Christ’s death are very good! That is why we must look at the crucifixion with eyes to see a dimension deeper than the surface. On the surface it looks merely like a brutal beating and a cruel, undeserving death. But as believers, we know why the events of this day are called GOOD. Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” 1 Peter 3:18, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.”
This morning I was talking to my son Brock about Good Friday, explaining what it means to us. He asked me, "So, where would Jesus be around this time of the day when he died?" It was 9:00am, and so I replied, "He would be hanging on the cross, with people gathered around looking up at him, some yelling insults, some spitting in his direction and mocking him. But his mom and his closest friend were right there watching. Can you imagine watching someone you love very much die like that?" Hardly seems "good" doesn't it.
In contrast to all of the GOOD that has come as a result of Christ’s obedient and selfless death on the cross, this Friday was certainly the darkest day the world has ever seen. And while our hearts are heavy because Jesus had to die this day this way, (as a victim of capital punishment, abandoned by his friends, betrayed, mocked, etc., all of which stands to remind us of our fickle faith), we are full of awe of the love that God has for us. And we approach Good Friday with thankful hearts because we know that THE DEATH WE COMMEMORATE THIS DAY ENDED IN RESURRECTION.
I look forward to celebrating this event with you at this Sunday’s Oasis gathering.
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