As we approach Easter, we are coming nearer to the day we celebrate God’s triumph over death and sin with Jesus’ resurrection. Before we celebrate the miracle of Jesus rising from the dead, it’s important on this Good Friday to reflect on the path Jesus had to take to get there. 

Even though He is God, going to the cross was not easy for Jesus. When He lived on Earth, He faced the same temptations we do and even asked God to “take this cup of suffering away” (Luke 22:42a) before He was betrayed and arrested. But we can find strength in his last words in that prayer: “Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” (Luke 22:42b).

Jesus knew that He had to go to the cross so our sins would be paid in full. He loved us enough even in that moment to move forward in the plan God had for him. As a result of His faithfulness, we can live in the free gift of His grace, which is given to anyone who believes in Him (Romans 3:22 and 3:26).  (For more on Grace check out the daily ready from the Life Transformation Bible, page A-40).

When I think of the sacrifice He made to declare us not guilty, I remember the song “Jesus Paid it All.” It reminds me of His strength in paying the debt that I will never be able to repay.

I hear the Savior say

“Thy strength indeed is small,

Child of weakness, watch and pray,                    

Find in me thine all in all.”

Jesus’ death on the cross was the final, full payment for our sins. He went through agony for us, and this Good Friday, let’s remember His strength and sacrifice with grateful hearts.

Tonight, I invite you to observe Good Friday with us at Alive Church at 6:30 p.m. as we delve deeper into God’s love for us through His great sacrifice. 

I also invite you to share in the reflection and celebration of Jesus’ resurrection on Easter weekend. Alive Church will have four services available Saturday at 5:00 pm and Sunday at 8 am, 9:30 am and 11 am.

Invite your friends, family, and loved ones to join you this Easter at Alive Church, they will be glad you did!

In Christ,

Jeff