At EasterSample

Good Friday

Today we remember the sacrifice made by Jesus, as He was subjected to a brutal death on a cross, on the hill called Calvary. The cross, which is so commonly worn by many people these days, was a symbol of extreme humiliation, disrepute and agony in the days of the Roman Empire. But for Jesus, it was more; it was a painful gateway, a bridge that would connect the fallen world of humanity to the salvation and freedom found through the spilling of His righteous blood.

Days prior to His crucifixion, Jesus, being all-knowing, said to His disciples, “As you know, the Passover is two days away—and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” Yet, this knowledge did not keep him from continuing to the cross. Knowing the pain and suffering ahead, this Man of Sorrows willingly endured false accusations, ridicule and a beating that left Him disfigured and barely alive; all before being nailed to the splintered cross and hung to die as a spectacle of shame for all to see.

“Silent as He stood accused,
Beaten, mocked and scorned,
Bowing to the Father’s will,
He took the crown of thorns”

As the last few breaths escaped His body, He did not curse anyone or call down fire to destroy the earth, but rather, He pleaded our case, asking the Father to forgive the very people who crucified Him. This love was as unprecedented as it was unsolicited. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us; before we asked, He forgave.

Today, we remember, our hearts bursting with gratitude, the day when our Saviour laid down His own life so that we can have eternal life, reconciled and righteous before God. We invite you to take a moment to pause, quiet your mind and consider His sacrifice of love for you.

“Now my soul cries out hallelujah,
Praise and honour unto Thee”

Lyrics taken from “Man of Sorrows” by Hillsong Worship