When I was in grammar school, it was the local custom to spend the hours between noon and 3 o’clock on Good Friday, sitting in silence in our beautiful town park.  I don’t think that I ever completed the whole time without talking.  Usually, one of my sisters would be trying to do the same feat and would stop by my bench to see if we could go home.

I was always trying to get it “right”.  Not realizing at that age that it was impossible to get it right through my own efforts.  I was trying to earn my way into heaven because I didn’t understand the true impact of Christ’s death on the cross.  I’m not sure if an eight-year old can understand the magnitude of this gift.  I’m not sure if I can understand it today.

However, spending time in contemplation of this divine mystery brings me closer to Jesus, closer to His love.  I still contend with my need to understand the why and the how of what happened on that first Good Friday.

This is an area for the practice of faith, pure and simple faith.  The faith which we received in Baptism.  The faith which we need to practice on a daily, even hourly basis.  The faith which allows grace to flow to our troubled souls.

This year, while we are sequestered in our homes, is an ideal time to turn off the television, put down the tablet, turn away from the noise of the outside world and turn to silent mediation on the gift of Good Friday.

Spend some time in contemplation today.  Reflect on Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and the love which our God demonstrates for us at every moment of our lives.  Yes, He does love you unconditionally and He suffered and died to prove it.

Terri