Resources

Joy Before Easter
by Laura Curll

As I headed for home, I couldn't help but feel joy on a day that could also be sorrowful.  While what was done to our Lord was unthinkable, what was done for us was utterly remarkable.  Mourning for the torturous price Jesus paid for our salvation has its rightful place, but Good Friday also provides us the opportunity of knowing that all God's children have an invitation to His eternal Kingdom.  When the Lord said, "Forgive them, Father, they know not what they do" Luke 23:34, it relays to me the extent of His acceptance, that God desires all of His children to be reconciled to Him, and that those who are already Christ's faithful servants have received the grace of inspiring others to come into the fold.  What a peace it gave me to convey this to these two individuals, and many others over the years...folks who are under the impression that their marginalized life circumstances keep them from receiving God's love, grace and redemption.  There was nothing better than being able to tell them this just isn't so!

Even when parents are about to die, they sometimes leave the message to loved ones not to cry, but to be happy and honor them by going on to make the best life possible for themselves and others.  Christ's ascension into Heaven, if you will, could be viewed as the same.  He gave us one last command that would bring honor to the Father and ensure the best life possible for us..."Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" Matthew 28:19, opening discipleship and its eternal reward to those who would follow Him.  What could be more satisfying to let our brothers and sisters know this reward can be theirs as well as yours and mine?

Sorrow every year on Good Friday can reveal that we recognize the ransom Jesus paid for us.  To show true appreciation for the sacrifices of Christ we must also stir others hearts, minds and souls.  We must be willing and committed to offering the Gospel message to others.  This is when my heart says “thank you, Jesus”.  This is when my cup of joy is full.  Jesus died on the cross for the benefit of all creation, and  I am truly humbled to deliver this amazing news to the world.  This, in and of itself, makes Good Friday truly "good".