Holy Week: A Walk Through Jesus' Final DaysНамуна

Good Friday

Through all four Gospel accounts, the grim details of Friday become clear to us. Jesus was unjustly accused and put on trial. He was mocked, beaten and belittled through physical and verbal abuse. First, He was brought to trial before the high priest and the religious council. Under the cover of darkness, they accused Him of blasphemy and leading people astray. They used false witnesses to bring charges against Him and found Him guilty and deserving of death. Because they had no authority to put Him to death, the council brought Him before the Roman governor, Pilate. After questioning Jesus, Pilate found nothing wrong with Him but, at the insistence of the religious leaders, he relented and gave them permission to put Jesus to death. Jesus was then beaten and flogged almost to the point of death and made to carry His own cross to the hill called Golgotha. After having both His hands and feet nailed to the cross, Jesus continued to receive ridicule and insults from those watching the spectacle.

In spite of all this, Jesus' words were only filled with steadfast love. "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing." Can you imagine saying these words in the middle of so much pain and injustice? During this time, Jesus did not sin. He did not lash out in anger or curse those who were torturing Him. In fact, one of the thieves next to Him on another cross chose to believe because of Jesus' words and actions. There is a reason why He went through all of this. He chose suffering and death so that we can be freed from the weight of sin. He endured pain and suffering that we cannot imagine so that our relationship with God could be restored. What was meant for evil, He turned into good.

Reflection/Prayer

Death was not the end of the story. In fact, it was just the beginning. God's ultimate plan for creation culminated in the death and resurrection of Jesus. If you have ever questioned God's love for you, the story of Jesus should give you confidence that God loves you more than you could possibly know. He desires to be in a relationship with you. Spend some time reflecting on Jesus' death and what it means for your life. Ask God to make his presence known to you as you celebrate Easter.

As Holy Week comes to an end, find a local church and participate in observations of Good Friday and Easter celebrations. It is good to gather with others and celebrate the fact that He is risen!