Respect Good Friday

Jesus cried out again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit. And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised. And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many. The centurion and the men with him who were keeping watch over Jesus feared greatly when they saw the earthquake and all that was happening, and they said, "Truly, this was the Son of God!" - Matthew 27:50-54

Years ago Good Friday was observed in a very solemn way. No one played music. People hardly spoke to one another out of respect for Christ's death. Instead, the day was spent in quiet prayer and meditation. The Christian community took very seriously the sacrifice of the cross and truly reflected on it.

Today it feels like most people see Good Friday as a day off. Holy Week is a mini-vacation. It's sad how disrespectful we've become. I want to challenge all of us to bring back the importance of the day to our lives. What would it mean to you if Jesus never died for you and all you have is this one life with no hope of anything else? No comfort in suffering. No hope of being reunited with loved ones we've lost. Christ has given all of Himself to us and on Good Friday He deserves all of out attention. Tune out everything and everyone else to the best of your ability and tune in to Jesus for just one day.

Today's Prayer:
Jesus, show me how to meditate on Your death and immense love for us. Help me keep the day dedicated to You and observing what You have done for me. Keep away from me all distractions so that I can be united with You in prayer. In Your Name we pray, amen.


Lumineux: Letting God's Light Shine
www.lettinggodslightshine.com