Good Friday Exhortation: The Triumph of Sacrificial Love
Beloved in Christ, on this solemn yet sacred day, we stand at the foot of the cross, beholding the greatest act of love and redemption ever known.
Good Friday is not merely a day of mourning; it is a day of divine purpose fulfilled, a day when love conquered sin and death.
As we reflect on the events of Calvary, let us anchor ourselves in John 19:30, where Jesus declared, "It is finished." These three words are not a cry of defeat, but a proclamation of victory—a victory that echoes through eternity.
1. The Depth of His Suffering
Let us first consider the weight of the suffering Christ bore for us. He was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities, and by His stripes, we are healed (Isaiah 53:5). Every nail driven into His hands, every thorn pressed upon His brow, every lash that tore His flesh was endured because of His immeasurable love for you and me. He took upon Himself the punishment we deserved so that we might stand righteous before God.
2. The Power of Sacrificial Love
Good Friday reminds us of the transforming power of sacrificial love. In Romans 5:8, Paul writes, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This love is not passive; it is active, relentless, and redemptive. Jesus willingly laid down His life, not because we were worthy, but because His love makes us worthy.
3. The Triumph of Redemption
When Jesus said, "It is finished," He declared the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. The veil of the temple was torn in two, granting us access to the Holy of Holies (Matthew 27:51). The power of sin was broken, and the way to eternal life was opened to all who believe in Him. Good Friday is a day of triumph because it marks the beginning of our victory in Christ.
So, dear ones, as we remember the cross, let us not only grieve the cost of our salvation but also rejoice in the freedom it has secured. Let this day be a call to action—a call to live lives worthy of the sacrifice made for us. Let us carry our own crosses daily, loving as Christ loved, forgiving as Christ forgave, and walking as Christ walked.
Closing Encouragement
Today, the shadow of the cross reminds us that darkness does not have the final word. Sunday is coming, and with it, the dawn of resurrection and hope. But let us not rush past this day. Let us linger at the foot of the cross and let its message transform us. For in the cross, we find our identity, our purpose, and our eternal hope.
Go forth with hearts full of gratitude, knowing that the blood shed on Calvary was shed for you. May we live every day in the light of this sacrificial love, proclaiming with our lives the victory of our Savior.
Amen!
