04/03/2026
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus quoting Psalm 22:1
Some thoughts on Good Friday.
Good Friday has always been a bit of a conundrum to me. It is a time we are called to remember the suffering and death of the itinerate rabble-rouser rabbi Jesus. We are reminded that he felt forsaken, even by God. A day set aside to focus on the cruel death of an innocent man…..what’s so good about that?
A few quick thoughts.
We have all felt, at one time or another forsaken and alone. This day reminds us that Jesus understands that very feeling.
This day reminds us of Christ’s immense love for all of humanity. He could have stayed out of Jerusalem and saved his earthly life. But he didn’t. He refused to be bullied. He refused to back down. He continued to speak truth to power. He continued to challenge systems that dehumanized certain people and gave others a free pass. This day reminds us of the cost of unconditional/sacrificial love, and confirms that Jesus was willing to pay that price. For each of us. For all of us. No exceptions. Full stop.
Also, as Ken Sehested reminds us, “Good Friday is good for what it foreshadows.”
Good Friday reminds us that the story is not over. Even in the darkness of death and a tomb, new life is being formed.
As Anne Lamott reminds us, it’s grace (not death) that gets the last bat.
Our cross of hope is slowly filling up. If you’re able, stop by, say a prayer, and add a flower to the cross. And stop by Sunday morning at 10:00 and join us for a resurrection celebration.
