Introductory Remarks:
Traditionally, Christianity teaches that Good Friday is a day of sorrow, a day of death and dying; a day when Jesus paid the ultimate cost of ‘death’ shedding blood to release humanity from the sting and stigma of ‘sin.’
Today, Jesus invites you to reflect on ‘Good Friday’ once more. Be open to personal insights that the Holy Spirit has for you.
Reflection I: ‘Remember Me’
‘One of the criminals hanging next to Jesus insulted him: “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” Responding, the other criminal spoke harshly to him, “Don’t you fear God, seeing that you’ve also been sentenced to die? We are rightly condemned, for we are receiving the appropriate sentence for what we did. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus replied, “I assure you that today you will be with me in paradise.”’ Luke 23:39-43 (CEB)
Reflection II: ‘Love Never Fails’
While the soldiers were looking after themselves, Jesus’ mother, his aunt, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene stood at the foot of the cross. Jesus saw his mother and the disciple he loved standing near her. He said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son.” Then to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that moment the disciple accepted her as his own mother.” John 19:24-27 (The Message Bible)
Reflection III: ‘Keep the Faith’
‘Then Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” Having said this, he breathed his last.” Luke 23:46 (NRSVUE)
Musical Interlude
TASK: In quiet contemplation, list those limitations and disharmonies in your life that you can do without. Cross out each item on your list, and in so doing, blot out from your mind your acceptance of that negativity. When you have completed this task, pause and reflect on the Truth of your being as you have come to know it.
ASSIGNMENT: Pages 167-174, A Closer Walk With Jesus (UFBL); 40 Days of Letting Go, Lent 2023, pgs. 62-63; Daily Inspiration (UFBL)