When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood- ( Isaac Watts)
Believers of Jesus Christ reflect on his sacrifice as we commemorate Good Friday and subsequently Easter Sunday. The latter is now coming to be termed as Resurrection Sunday, which in reality better captures the essence of that glorious day. As one of my friends asked is school “What is the goodness in good Friday?” In order to gain some insight into the goodness of the death of Jesus, we must understand the significance of blood within the mortal perception. Since the time of civilization and our existence blood was and will remain the ultimate symbol of life. In the Old Testament of the Holy Bible there are many instances of sacrifices offered to Almighty God- YHWH (in Hebrew). We see this in the story of Abraham where he was asked to sacrifice his son Isaac, as a test of his obedience. Yet God only tested him and didn’t take the life of the boy.
They concurred to have him executed on false charges, with the aid of one of his 12 disciples Judas. We all know the story of the crucifixion, as Jesus was nailed between to condemned criminals. Yet he was unblemished and innocent. Reverting back to that question of goodness is that the blood of Jesus Christ was the final atonement for the remission of our sins. That is the liberating power in the blood of Christ- which has the ability to break every human bondage, affliction and curse. The blood of Jesus needs no substitute- in the form of candles, flowers, vows, fasting, penance or monetary offerings. These are manmade traditions that have no biblical significance. We cannot out give his ultimate sacrifice. The lesson therein is forgiveness. Jesus forgave those who despised and killed him.
It intrigues me every year to see people dressed in shades of grey and immaculate white going to church. I respect your devout intentions, but you’re not going for a funeral. Jesus died once, don’t crucify him every year!! How do you respect his sacrifice? Your daily life must reflect the values you hold sacred from the Bible. It would seem that many are perhaps led by a sense of guilt- indeed we all sin. But once you’re saved to salvation by the blood of Christ which manifests purely by divine grace you don’t have to pay any annual penance. The Bible says “If the Son (Jesus) sets you free, you are free indeed”. The cross is the confluence of love and freedom.
The greater “goodness” out of Good Friday is the magnificent victory over death and sin. Jesus Christ is risen and reigns supreme. The devil is defeated. How does the glory of his resurrection impact you? Again I am bewildered to see the commercialization of “Easter Sunday” with chocolate bunnies and succulent buffets. The resurrection and ascension of Jesus paved the way for his comforter- the Blessed Holy Spirit to come and be a part of our lives. Life is not a rainbow- you will face challenges. You will walk in the valley and be rejected. You will be hurt and deceived. Yet the Holy Spirit will guide you and renew your mind- towards Christ likeness. You must be tested to be trusted. We will face wicked people who will challenge us and temptations which entice us. Our ultimate reward is in heaven.
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia!
Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!- (Charles Wesley )
An old Chaplain at college once said “Your life is like a bag of tea leaves son. When the bag is immersed in hot water- it submits, but then rises boldly to release its best flavor, by which you get your cup of tea. Likewise when subject to a boiling situation, face that challenge with hope, knowing that God is on your side, and give a positive result”. After facing the victories and vicissitudes of life I can agree with that Chaplain. The pulse of Resurrection Sunday is to rise above the injustice and despair of the world and shine your light- you can make a difference.
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