With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. (Mark 15:37) There is much to be said about these precious pages of God's Word, but at the same time, what can be said? Jesus' blood told the whole story. But here are two points that jumped out at me as I read about Jesus' sacrifice.
First, I should mention, it's been a long time since I've read about the crucifixion. Certainly, I've heard it preached on lots of Good Fridays, but who ever wants to open their Bible and read about Jesus' death? His resurrection, yes. Crucifixion, no. It's become a trend for me to learn something new in these stories I thought I knew so well, and this one was no different. Take the actual moment of Jesus' death. The land goes dark, the curtain tears, and... the tombs broke open?! I do not remember this. "The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus' resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people." (Matt. 27: 52-53) Will this Bible never cease to amaze me?!
The other thing that strikes me in the Good Friday chapters of the Bible, are the supporting people. Pilate's wife, Simon the cross-bearer, the thieves beside Jesus, Joseph who "went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body" (Mark 15:43), and of course the Marys. For all the wicked in this story, these people bring some comfort to readers aching for our Christ. They were unexpected friends who came out of the woodwork to do a small favor for a giant King.
2 comments:
When I became Lutheran I went to their Good Friday services. They're totally sad ... dim lights, all about crucifixion, no one talks, leave in silence. The contrast to Easter makes it even better!
SO sad! You're right though- it makes Easter even more joyful! AND you get to wear a hat! :)
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