Holy Week has been a part of my life since I was an infant. I know that my mother probably brought me to the Good Friday service at church when I was less than a year old. This week is an important time for Christians who wish to honor and glorify Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for His people. I cannot imagine missing any of the sacred services that will take place this week. 

Today is Good Friday. A day filled with “edge of the seat” drama from morning until late afternoon. A day of trial, testimony, accusation, torture and finally the death of Jesus. A death not at the hands of the Jewish people, but the local rulers, trying to calm the angry crowds. I want to be there not for the ritual but for the emphasis that it gives to me of God’s enduring and unconditional love for me and you. 

The theory of why Jesus had to die for us to gain life everlasting is one that I learned over years of catechism and courses. I want to acknowledge that Jesus the Man, willing gave his life for me and for you so that we would have eternal life with Him. Alleluia! 

It was a horrible task, made worse by the human cruelty of cowardly men and shamed by his own supporters who went into hiding after his arrest. Only the women, his mother and her friends and relatives walked with her during this arduous journey to Calvary. The Apostle John was at the cross; he was the favorite of Jesus and there Jesus asked him to care for his mother. 

There was another person at the cross who offered a silent tribute to Jesus. The Centurion. The soldier who refused to break the Jesus’ legs because he was already dead. Instead, he slashed Christ’s side with a spear. Thus, fulfilling the prophecies of old (Zechariah 12:10 and Exodus 12:46) and confirming that Jesus is the true Passover Lamb (no bones shall be broken). 

I will spend some quiet time today reflecting on the gift the Jesus gave us today and on his human suffering. Then tonight, I will join with others at church to hear the Passion read and sing “The Centurion’s Song.”

Please join us. 

Terri