GOOD FRIDAY

Suggested Readings:

Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Psalm 22

Hebrews 10:16-25

John 18:1-19:42

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The 2004 movie, The Passion of the Christ, focused almost exclusively on the brutality of Jesus’ crucifixion. There is a moment at the end of the film when the light of the resurrection is seen, but overall, it is dark, difficult film to watch.

While there are those who viewed the film with the understanding of vicarious suffering, it is unfortunate that the violence overwhelmed the message of the gospel. Jesus went to the cross freely accepting the cup that was placed before him (John 18:11), in contrast to his prayer in the synoptics that, if possible, he be spared the cup (Matt 26:39; Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42). Jesus, not the religious authorities, nor Pilate, controlled the events that took place.

Jesus promised that when he was “lifted up” (John 3:14-15) everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. The message of Good Friday is painful. It is brutal. It is also good news, for in God’s sovereignty, Christ died for all of us. It is God’s love for a fallen world, that required Jesus’ sacrifice. (John 3:16)

Because Jesus willingly went to the cross we have the possibility of eternal life.  We need to understand that eternal life does not speak of immortality or a future walking on streets of gold. Eternal life is a metaphor for living now in the unending presence of God. Jesus’ offer of his own life through being lifted up on the cross makes eternal life possible for those who believe.

Good Friday is “good” because the cross assures us of life in the presence of God. When the Temple curtain was torn from top to bottom, (Matt. 21:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45) symbolically the separation between God and human beings was torn down. Because of Jesus we have direct access to God, without need of an intermediary.

Good Friday is “good” because sacrifice for sin has been made once for all. When we pause to reflect on Good Friday, we need to understand the violence of the day juxtaposed with the reality of God’s good news of salvation.