Holy week. It begins for Christians on Palm Sunday. It follows with Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and culminates in Easter Sunday—the Lord’s day, when Jesus was resurrected and proved his authority over death and our salvation through him.
Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, cheered on by his followers and hailed, “Hosanna to the son of King David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”
Maundy Thursday marks the day Jesus was arrested and put on trial—beaten, scourged, tortured and taunted.
Good Friday is the day Jesus was hung on the cross and died an earthly death as a criminal.
Holy Saturday marks the day Jesus’ body lay in the tomb.
Easter Sunday celebrates Jesus’ resurrection and our salvation through his blood sacrifice.
So if Jesus died on Friday, why in the world do we call it “good”? Because if he hadn’t died, he would not have provided the blood sacrifice to cover our sins—all sins, for all people, for all time.
His death was horrible, but the reason and the results were very, very good! It was the best Friday ever.
Services at churches throughout the world today are filled with solemn prayers and reflection. This reflection helps us meditate on the understanding of what it was all about. It was horrible for Jesus. But it was really good for us.
“Good Friday” blessings to all.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for your plan of salvation through Jesus. We don’t fully understand your plan but we know it is good because you are good. And today—as we remember Jesus’ horrible earthly death and the immense sacrifice he made in taking upon him your wrath so that we wouldn’t have to—please remind us that this day marks something very, very good. Amen.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? How do you observe Good Friday?
5 comments:
Thank for what Jesus did for me!
I spent yesterday with family, mostly with my 2 year old grandson Nolan, love that little dude!!
Sweet! Jesus loves the little children. Even us not so little kids.
When I read the gospel accounts of that day, I find myself shouting at those people, "What are you doing!" Then I remember that it was done for me - I was the one on trial, but Jesus was standing in my place.
What more can be said except "Thank you Jesus - I receive God's riches at your expense. I praise you Father, for your amazing, long suffering love and Holy Spirit I bless your Holy name for bring me the knowledge of Him!"
Peace and Blessings to you dear Carol on this Resurrection Day!
Enjoyed this. Holy Saturday to you, Carol. Anticipating Resurrection Joy! Praise the Lord for Empty Tomb celebration! Easter blessings to you!
Thank you Terrie and Lynn - Easter blessings to both of you and your families, too. God is so good.
Post a Comment