Good Friday: The Darkest Day, the Brightest Hope
Good Friday: The Darkest Day, the Brightest Hope
Theme: The Lamb Slain
Matthew 27:27–61, Isaiah 53:4–6, Psalm 22:1–18
At Golgotha, the sinless Son of God was nailed to a Roman cross. The sky grew dark. The earth trembled. The One through whom all things were made (John 1:3) gave up His breath to save those who had rebelled against Him.
This is not just a tragic injustice—it is a divine transaction.
"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 did not die as a victim. He died as a substitute. The Lamb of God bore the wrath of God so that the people of God could be reconciled forever.
On the cross, Jesus cried out, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matt. 27:46). He was quoting Psalm 22, entering fully into the anguish of separation so that we might never be separated from God again.
And when He declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30), He meant that the debt was paid in full. Nothing remains to be added. The cross has accomplished what we never could: atonement, forgiveness, peace with God.
Reflection:
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What sins did Christ carry to the cross for you?
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Are you still trying to earn what Christ already paid for?
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How can the finished work of Jesus reshape your heart and your hope today?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You were despised and rejected so that I could be accepted. You were wounded that I might be healed. Today I stand at the foot of the cross, overwhelmed by love and sobered by sacrifice. Teach me to live each day in the shadow of Calvary—humbled, grateful, and surrendered. Amen.
*Picture and text generated through a ChatGPT prompt then proofed and edited to reflect the author's perspective and intent.
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