I remember as young person asking my mother, “Why is it called ‘Good Friday’ when it is such a sad day of Jesus’ death. I no longer remember my mother’s response. However, I have discovered with each passing year as Holy Week unfolds that indeed the Friday of Jesus’ death is Good.
This day beyond all other days of the year immerse us in the reality of humanity. The reality that human life is difficult. There are pains, suffering, betrayal, arrogance, pride, envy, jealousy, and even murder that scar humanity with our brokenness and imperfections of life. Sometimes the reality of these and similar imperfections within humanity leave us vulnerable to the injustice, terror, and atrocities of warring madness. At other times our misspoken words, broken trust in relationship, and hurtful habits wound the soul. This does not sound GOOD! What have I discovered through each passing year as I lean into God on Good Friday that makes it so good?
This day beyond all other days of the year immerse us in the reality of God’s steadfast presence amid human imperfection, illness, and hopelessness. Because of God’s unshakable, unbreakable love which gifts us with new possibility of resurrection portion, we have the assurance that we are never alone in our pain and suffering. In fact, even Jesus’ suffering on the Golgotha cross did not last forever. It may feel as if a season of agony will last forever when going through the imperfect injustices of declining health, betrayal of a friend, or suffering of oppression. Rest assured that death, pain, suffering, and a sense of separation from God is not that last act or Word God loves into humanity.
The Scripture
There are several Scriptures that highlight the events of Jesus’ death on Good Friday. I invite you to read slowly at least one of today’s Scriptures. As you read consider how the text is a personal Word from God for you, for your community, and for our world. The Scriptures for Good Friday from the Common Lectionary are: Isaiah 52:1 – 53:12, Psalm 22, Hebrews 10:16-25, and John 18:1-19:42.
Today’s Prayer Practice
Today we will pray with a crucifix or cross. When you have the cross or crucifix before you, if you do not have one you may print a picture from the above links, you will pray first with your hands open with palms down. The question to contemplative is “What do you desire to leave at the foot of the cross, to come most open-heartedly before Jesus?”
After spending time in prayer with the first question, then turn your hands over so that your palms are facing up. Now contemplate the question “What do you need to pick up at the foot of Jesus’ cross or crucifix to be fully present to Jesus this Good Friday?”
When you are finished praying with both questions, please close your time of prayer celebrating the depth, breadth, and expansive love of God.
Enjoy praying.
