Today is Good Friday, a day when Christians around the world remember the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. This event, which took place over 2,000 years ago, is central to the Christian faith and has profound significance for believers.
The Events Leading Up to Jesus' Death
The Jewish court system had found Jesus guilty of blasphemy and deserving of death, but only Rome had the power to execute criminals. The religious leaders drag Jesus before Pilate, claiming that he's a tax evader and insurrectionist who calls himself the 'King of the Jews'. Pilate sees through their lies but is forced to condemn Jesus to death to avoid a riot.
Jesus is immediately flogged and tortured by a troop of soldiers. They mock his claim to kingship, dress him in a purple robe, ram a crown of thorns on his head, and mockingly bow to him. They then hammer his sentence to the top of a cross before nailing his wrists and ankles to the beams. For three hours, Jesus hangs on the cross, bleeding and suffering before finally dying.
The Meaning of Jesus' Sacrifice
Jesus' death was not just a tragic event; it was the ultimate sacrifice. He died in our place, taking the punishment we deserved for our sins. The prophet Isaiah predicted that one day God would send someone who would be rejected by Israel's leadership, condemned by his fellow citizens, and abandoned by his closest followers. That person was Jesus.
Isaiah wrote, "he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5). Jesus' death was the payment for our sins, and because of his sacrifice, we have access to God's mercy and forgiveness.
What It Means for Us Today
Good Friday is not just a historical event; it is a message of hope for all of us. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we can be forgiven and saved from a death that we would otherwise deserve. There is no longer a curtain between us and God's mercy; we can come to him freely and receive forgiveness.
Action Items
On this Good Friday, take some time to reflect on Jesus' sacrifice and what it means for you personally. Here are a few action items you can take: