The underlying reason “Good Friday” is good, is because of Sunday. The crucifixion of Christ is fulfilled in the resurrection. His blood shed for us, his victory over death, his triumphant breakout from the tomb – that’s what it’s about for you and me – our lives get to breakout of all the corruption, turmoil, depression and sin of this world into a new life in Jesus Christ!
Good Friday is good because of redemption!
The Bible is very clear that the cross was a place of mercy for you.
Jesus forever defeated the lies, power and position of the enemy. The position of the enemy today is, he is under the power of the Word of God, under the authority of the believer and beneath the feet of those who walk in peace with God through Christ.
Most likely Jesus was crucified on a Thursday evening, as the arrangements were being made for the Passover and temple celebrations – then His coming out of the tomb would have happened before daylight on Sunday morning.
In the Jewish world a day started at sunset on the previous evening. This would account for three days and three nights. And, it makes the sunrise of Sunday so meaningful… a great time to rejoice!
The mercy of God we received at the cross is what sanctifies our lives today. Grace, the power to live a victorious life, was the result of His resurrection. Jesus is recorded in Matthew 5, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” The Bible in Lamentations reads, “His mercies are new every morning.”
What happened on Friday is the sustaining foundation of our lives every day. Good Friday makes Tuesday good, Good Friday makes Thursday good – every day! His mercy!
Then in Psalms we read, “My mercy endures forever!” Forever means... FOREVER. For our children and their children and their children.
In His mercy toward us, Jesus prayed, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Mercy has positioned us for grace, honor, power, strength and anointing – and ALL of that becomes a gift to give to others.
Today, spread the gift. Speak a kind word, send an affirming text, hug a friend, pray for healing of friends and loved ones – then call them – go see them, invite a neighbor to church, be generous because God has been so very generous with us.
Why did Jesus die between two thieves?
It’s a picture of you and me. The Bible tells us in Romans 5 that while we were still sinners, while we lived like those thieves, Christ died for us. His mercy. Now, like those two men, we have a choice. In Deuteronomy 30, God gives us a choice between death and life – “Now, choose life” says the Lord, “so that you and your children will live!” His mercy has given us life!
Let’s rejoice! It’s a Good Friday!
I speak life over you and your loved ones. You are blessed. You are loved by God your father. You are anointed. You are faithful. You are full of His presence. You are committed. You have received His mercy and grace. Because of Christ's victory at the cross, you now walk in that victory as a victorious champion!
With love and blessings from me and Judi and our family. And from Joann Webster and the entire CMN team. May you be blessed.
