Good Friday is here- the time of year when we are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice made for us. The God who walked among us as a man, who felt pain as man does, endured the agony of being nailed to the cross. At first, it stirs up feelings of sadness, guilt, and even anger. We feel sadness for what he had to endure, guilt for man’s lack of appreciation, and anger for his betrayal and being treated worse than a criminal.
Once the feelings and emotions have subsided, the reality of “it had to happen” gently calms the spirit. He had to be betrayed. He had to die on the cross so we could be redeemed. His death marked the prophecy foretold by the Prophet Isaiah: “Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.” (Isaiah 52:13 KJV)
“Therefore, will I divide him a portion among the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” (Isaiah 53:12 KJV)
His death marked the fulfillment of divine prophecy and demonstrated His selfless act of love for us all. He poured out His life so that we might find salvation. Let us not allow it to be in vain.
