03/29/2024
“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished.” Then bowing his head, he gave up his spirit.“
John 19:30
His whole life had led up to this moment. Not a second of it was wasted, He had freed the oppressed, healed the sick, given sight to the blind, and fed many that were physically and spiritually hungry. Through it all, He never sinned, not once.
He remained silent throughout the trial, Pilate was a mess, the mob was angry, everyone seemed to be in a state of chaos except Jesus. He was prayed up, He knew His purpose. The beating, the whips, the thorns all hurt, yet He knew they had purpose.
Jesus’ crucifixion redeemed every aspect of the Fall. His hands were pierced because our hands stole from the tree, His feet were pierced to fulfill the promise of Genesis 3:15 and crush the head of the serpent, his side was even pierced to make atonement for the sin of Eve; who was taken from Adam’s side.
It all had purpose but the reality is that it was painful and shameful and He didn’t deserve one bit of it, I did. He took the cross and gave me life. He took the curse and gave me redemption.
I write this in tears because I realize the only thing good about Good Friday is Jesus. I will celebrate on Sunday but today I mourn with the disciples. We can’t celebrate the resurrection without pausing and remembering the cross.
Join with me in prayer today that the message of the cross will be preached with power and many will come to know Jesus for the first time throughout this Resurrection weekend. God bless you! Have a Good Friday!