Good Friday for us but one filled with agony for our Savior!

Good morning on the day called Good Friday and it is April 2, 2010. Today we think about the actual events that took place at the location called Calvary where Jesus of Nazareth was crucified between two thieves. I had a long conversation with a gentleman who had heard something about the different words spoken by our Lord while He was on The Cross. In particular, he and I discussed the meaning of "It is finished." I shared my understanding of these words in the original language in how they reflect the sealing of a legal contract. This means the price was fully paid. As a result you and I can go free because Jesus took our place and gave up Himself on our behalf. While the Gospel is exactly what the word implies, good news or glad tidings, it certainly was not a good experience that our Savior endured. Yet, we are told that He did what He did for the joy that was set before Him, while despising the shame, and that joy included fulfilling God's provision of salvation for sinners, just like you and I! (see Hebrews Chapter 12)

I am blessed to have today off. We have many activities over the next three days but I will do my best not to forget to remember what this event means. It is not just a holiday weekend. It is not just a time for families to get together and to enjoy fun activities. It is a time for us to remember. Remember the price that was paid. Remember why He had to do what He did for us. Remember His suffering. Remember His finished work. "Oh what a Savior! Oh Hallelujah His heart was broken on Calvary, His hands we nail scared: His side was driven, He gave his life blood for you and me." And, as so many sunrise services will sing about, remember His empty tomb as He resurrected from the dead in a show of victory over death, hell, and the grave. "Up from the grave He arose,With a mighty triumph o’er His foes, He arose a Victor from the dark domain,And He lives forever, with His saints to reign.He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!"

I do wish you and yours a most wonderful celebration of the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Take time to dwell upon this, the most phenomenal event in history, all done so that you and I might have the right to be called the sons and daughters of God. May He be recognized and honored for He alone is worthy of our praise! Amen. ........More later.