Good Friday is probably the most solemn day in the Christian calendar—a day when the perfect and sinless Son of God became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21), took our place, and suffered a horrific death that he didn’t deserve.
The Bible describes a heartbreaking scene: Jesus, beaten beyond recognition (Isaiah 52:14), staggering as he carries the weight of His own cross. The man who healed the sick and fed the hungry was now being tormented by the very people He came to save!
Only days earlier, the crowds had shouted “Hosanna!”, and now, they shout, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!”.
But this was no ordinary execution. It was the greatest turning point in history – the moment when Jesus willingly offered himself as a sacrifice for our sins so that we could be saved. It is mind-boggling! Jesus chose the torture, humiliation, pain, and suffering!
Why?
Because He loves us that much!
Even creation knew something incredible was happening. As he hung on the cross between heaven and earth, the sky went dark in the middle of the day (Mark 15:33), and the veil in the temple tore from the top to the bottom (Mark 15:38).
And with his last breath, Jesus cried out – “It is finished!” (John 19:30).
This was not a whimper of defeat but rather a shout of victory!
The debt of sin was paid in full!
Yet in that moment, the disciples and all the people who loved Jesus didn’t understand what was happening. Their beloved Jesus was dying on the cross in front of them, and they only saw death and loss.
They didn’t understand that Jesus’ death was not the end but only the beginning!
They didn’t understand that the cross was the very reason why Jesus came to the world (John 12:27).
So today, we reflect and remember that Good Friday isn’t just a day of pain and sorrow, but it is also a day filled with hope because it’s the day that Jesus’ death brought us forgiveness and life!
Forgiveness that we could never deserve or earn on our own!
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What Jesus’ Death Means For You
You’re loved more than you know!
Jesus didn’t wait for us to live perfect lives or clean up our act before he came. He died for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8).
Your worst mistakes don’t define you
The thief on the cross had done terrible things, yet Jesus told him, “Today you’ll be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).
Death isn’t the end of the story
Far from it 🙂
Easter Friday Scriptures To Meditate On
A. Romans 5:8 (NIV) – God’s Love For Us
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Paul reminds us that Jesus didn’t die for us because we were good enough—He died for us while we were still sinners. His love is not based on our performance but on His grace.
B. Isaiah 53:5-6 (NIV) – The Prophecy
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
This scripture was written hundreds of years before Jesus. It is a prophecy describing his death and suffering. Jesus willingly took our sins, our sickness, and our shame—so we could be forgiven and healed.
C. John 19:16-30 (NIV) – The Crucifixion
This passage describes Jesus’ journey to the cross, His words from the cross (“It is finished”), and His final moments before death.
Incredibly, in spite of His pain and suffering, he still showed love and care for His mother.
“When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own household.” (John 19:26-27)
D. Luke 23:32-46 – The Thief on the Cross
This passage shows Jesus’ mercy even while He suffered. One criminal mocked Him, but the other repented and asked Jesus to remember him. Even in His final moments, Jesus offered forgiveness and hope, promising the thief, “Today you will be with Me in paradise.” (v.43)
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Daily Affirmation
Jesus died for me because He loves me. I am forgiven, cherished, and made new through His sacrifice.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank You for Your incredible love. You chose to suffer and die for me, even when I didn’t deserve it.
Your sacrifice has given me hope, forgiveness, and a new life. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your love. Teach me to forgive, to show compassion, and to walk closely with You every day.
Thank You for your sacrifice on the cross and for the victory it brings.
Amen.
