Good Friday was the darkest day in human history.
And as we remember it today, we’re facing some of the darkest days in our own history. What has unfolded over the last few weeks around the world has left our hearts feeling heavy. Helpless. Sad.
That’s how Jesus’ disciples felt on Good Friday.
But you and I can see what the disciples couldn’t that dark day. They looked at the cross and saw only death. Today, we can look through the cross and see life waiting on the other side.
That’s why I want to share three views of the cross for you to hold on to when life gets dark.
They’re found in 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV): “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
- The “why” of the cross:
Why did Jesus die? For one simple reason: you and me. The greatest problem in our life is sin. And God, who is holy and perfect, solved that problem by dying your death so that you might live His life.
- The “word” of the cross:
The word, or message, of the cross is that God is willing that no one should perish but all would come to repentance. Jesus died to give us a purpose in life: to tell others this important word.
- The “way” of the cross:
The victorious power of God to defeat death is the same power that now lives in you and me – that’s the way of the cross. We are full of Christ Himself because of the Holy Spirit, and so we have supernatural power to die to ourselves and live the Christian life.
Today we remember how our Jesus stretched out His arms on the cross and died – to show us how much He loves us.
I pray you draw closer to Christ today as you reflect on the why, the word, and the way of the cross – and the victory it brings.
NO MATTER HOW DARK LIFE GETS, THE RISEN KING IS ON THE OTHER SIDE.
