Good Friday. Looking At The Cross From 3 Disciples Perspective Series

So yes, it is ok to doubt. It is a part of the journey; allow yourself to ask questions and seek out a community of believers that will tell you the truth and answer questions according to the bible; there, you can find strength and Seek Jesus. Guys, the cross gives us an experience with Jesus in prayer, meditation and serving others. This can counter doubt with the truth, but most of all, put the cross at the centre of your life.

When we accept the Grace that Jesus has given us, we need to seek the truth, and this truth will lead us to the cross. When you make it the centre of your life, something is evident, as with this disciple.

This brings me to John. John was the son of Zebedee and the brother of James. He was one of Jesus' closest disciples and referred to as “disciple Jesus loved”, as in John 13:23.

At the last supper, we see John being very close to Jesus at the table John 13:23-24 (AMP). One of His disciples, whom Jesus loved (esteemed), was leaning against Jesus’ chest. 24 So Simon Peter motioned to him (John) and [quietly] asked [him to ask Jesus] of whom He was speaking.

It means John was close to Jesus. We see that there is a deep spiritual connection and understanding. Can you imagine being that close to Jesus? John's close relationship with Jesus, being present at the foot of the cross, exemplifies the intimate love and loyalty that define discipleship.

We read this in John 19:26-27 (AMP): So Jesus, seeing His mother and the disciple whom He loved (esteemed) standing near, said to His mother, “[Dear] woman, look, [here is] your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple (John), “Look! [here is] your mother [protect and provide for her]!” From that hour, the disciple took her into his own home.

John witnessed firsthand the depth of Jesus' love through the ultimate sacrifice, showing us that the cross is the fullest expression of divine love.

John's experience challenges us all to put the cross at the centre of our lives but in a posture of intimacy and love. Just as John stood by Jesus in his most painful moments, we are also invited to remain close to Jesus, and we do that by putting the cross at the centre of our lives, especially during times of suffering or challenges. The cross reminds us of the depth of love Jesus has for us, a love that calls us to live in close communion with Him but also extend that love to other people.

Guys, we cannot look at the cross and put it to a side somewhere; we cannot see it as jewellery anymore. We need to understand the cross equals love. We must prioritise his time above our work, spouse, and business. He needs to be at the centre. As John, we need to lean on Jesus in moments of difficulty and uncertainty. Lean on Jesus as John did. Share your fears, hopes, and joys with Him.

And most importantly, live in love. There is enough hate, revenge and negativity in the world already. We need to emulate the love of Jesus by interacting in love with others, and yes, it is difficult. Not everybody gets it right all the time, but as we look into the series we have been doing, look at the root, not the fruit, and show love and trust in Jesus' grace and truth, guiding us to love.