Good Friday

Today is Good Friday on the Christian calendar, commemorating the matchless mystery of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary over two thousand years ago. Having undergone humiliation and physical torture, Jesus was passed from Sanhedrin to Pontius Pilate. Pilate, "finding no fault" in Jesus, nevertheless acquiesced to the wishes of the religious leaders who despised Christ because of his anti-establishment teachings regarding the Kingdom of God and his popularity with the common folk. Pilate, literally washing his hands of the matter, condemned Jesus to death by crucifixion.

In church services throughout the world, Christians will remember the comments of Christ from the Cross. Sometimes referred to as the Seven Last Words, these statements inspire and convict those who listen carefully to them. 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.' 'Today, you will be with me in Paradise.' 'I thirst.' 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?' 'Woman, behold thy son; behold thy mother.' 'It is finished.' 'Into thy hands I commit my spirit.'

When Christ breathed his last, darkness descended, though it was only mid-afternoon. Seemingly, the Light had gone out. Darkness had claimed victory.

But no! The darkness could not overwhelm this Light. Easter was coming!