Good Friday

April 7, 2023

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him,

More than a thousand Nashville, Tennessee students marched on the state’s Capitol this week to protest the lack of action to prevent school shootings. The Legislature’s response was to strip three of its own members who were supporting the students from their committee assignments and now they are attempting to expel those same legislators from office. I could not help but think that response was similar to the actions of the religious leaders who were so threatened by Jesus they would do anything to stop him. Their power and their greed were being threatened.

Jesus Christ came to show us a better way of living lives driven by love putting to shame the idols of lust for power and greed.  He suffered the ultimate sacrifice of death on the cross. Good Friday is a time to reflect on the meaning of that sacrifice but do not give up hope and faith, today is not dubbed “Good” Friday for no reason. God is not finished yet.

Prayer: Lord, we pray for the innocents who suffer from the actions of those who are greedy and lust for power. Thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to show us the way of a world ruled by love. Enable us to continue his quest.  Amen.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.