Good Friday Reflection: The Crucifixion
Today, we remember the cross. We remember the suffering, the darkness, and the love that held Jesus there—not nails, but mercy.
On Good Friday, we reflect on the unimaginable grace of Jesus, who bore the weight of our sin. Fully human, He felt the pain. Fully God, He chose the cross. This is love in its truest, most sacrificial form.
It’s a day of sorrow, yes—but also of deep gratitude. Because in Jesus’ final breath, He opened the way for ours to be made new.
Scripture
Luke 23:32-43
Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!” The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.”
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (ESV)
Reflect
Jesus Christ, fully human and fully God, was killed on a cross to pay the debt owed by you for your sins.
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross. Thank You for standing in my place, for bearing my sin, and for offering forgiveness I could never earn. Help me to grasp the depth of Your love and to live in response to it—with humility, gratitude, and surrender. Amen.
Hymn - When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
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