Good Friday
After being betrayed, beaten, bruised, and mocked, Jesus was crucified on a cross made for criminals. The One who did no wrong paid the price for our wrongs. He hung exposed for all to see, with nails in His hands and feet and a pierced side.
That does not seem like a “good” Friday.
Yet, we know the story did not end there. In a few days, we get to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. He defeated death and the grave and made a way for us to be reconciled to Him. It is Good Friday because His death paved the way for our salvation. How great is His love to endure such suffering out of a desire to be with us.
Jesus' sacrifice reveals His extravagant love. Don’t skip to celebrating the Resurrection without first thanking Him for His suffering and death. There would be no resurrection without death.
Today, thank Jesus for His sacrifice and the price He paid.
“What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow; no other fount I know; nothing but the blood of Jesus.
This is all my hope and peace: nothing but the blood of Jesus. This is all my righteousness: nothing but the blood of Jesus.”
— Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus - Robert Lowry (1876)
Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle. Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: jesus of nazareth, the king of the jews.
John 19:16-19
Good Friday marks one of the most significant moments in Christian faith, a day to solemnly reflect on the immense suffering Jesus endured for humanity. Beyond the biblical accounts, many believers find deep personal meaning in meditating on this day’s events, which reveal extraordinary gifts of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. The physical and emotional pain Jesus faced—betrayal, mockery, and crucifixion—is difficult to comprehend, but it is through this sacrifice that many find hope and restoration. Having personally spent time in quiet contemplation and prayer on Good Friday, I’ve experienced a profound sense of gratitude for the mercy shown to us. It becomes clear that Good Friday is not only about suffering but also about the triumph of love over injustice and death. It is meaningful to pause and recognize that Jesus carried His cross willingly, as an act of ultimate service, fully aware of the pain ahead. This calls us to consider how love sometimes requires sacrifice, even suffering, for a greater good. The scripture passage from John, describing Jesus’ crucifixion at Golgotha, reminds us of the historical reality and the fulfillment of prophecy. In my experience, integrating personal prayers like the one thanking Jesus for every lash and drop of blood helps keep Him at the center of reflection, especially when distractions abound. These moments deepen understanding that Good Friday is not just a historical event but a living invitation to embrace forgiveness and renewal. Whether through attending a special service, reading hymns like “Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus,” or quietly meditating on the cross, celebrating Good Friday enriches faith by connecting believers to the powerful narrative of sacrifice and hope. It's a reminder that the darkest moments can lead to new life, making Good Friday truly good for those who believe.
