Good Friday: The Cross ✝

1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God.” Ask for God’s mercy today; throughout the day, ask for mercy. Mercy is more than just forgiveness of sins; it encompasses grace, favor, protection, blessings, breakthroughs, and deliverance.

As we celebrate Good Friday in this contemporary society, we are reminded of the salvific (leading to salvation) event that took place 2,025 years ago through symbols, ceremonies, and sacraments. Luke 22:19 KJV reads: “And he took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’” The final stage of His sacrifice was on the cross. Jesus essentially said, “Don’t ever forget what I did for you on the cross.”

Why does Jesus want us to remember His sacrifice? From a historical perspective, He wants us to know that God loves us and will go to great lengths to capture our attention. This fact alone should help us deal with sin, low self-esteem, fear, intimidation, feelings of unworthiness, and worthlessness. Walk with your head held high, knowing you are important to Him. Consider how much God paid to rescue you – He sacrificed His only Son. John 3:16 reads, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

God wants us to recall this historical reference, especially when faced with contemporary problems. Look at history: God had the power to take the sting out of death and victory over the grave. What else can’t He do for you? 1 Corinthians 15:55-58 says, “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

However, remembering Christ’s sacrifice historically isn’t enough; we need personal connectivity. We must connect personally with Christ’s experience to benefit from the fruits of this historical event. A crucial spiritual question is: Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Personal Savior? Take your time to reflect on this.

Paul teaches, “Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection” (Romans 6:4-5). This calls for a personal experience. Just like Christ carried the cross, you will also carry one. Anything that makes you cry out “Abba Father” is your cross.

Today, I entreat you to unite your crosses with Jesus’, connect with Him, and hand over your crosses to Him. He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Learn from me, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28). Hand over your cross to the Lord; you can’t do it by yourself. Sit quietly and wait for your Resurrection Sunday, because there is a Resurrection Sunday awaiting you. Your passion, crucifixion, and Good Friday will pass. All shall pass. It is well, and God is still on the throne, completely in control.”

Have faith. Shalom and God bless you.