Gospel: The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John. (John 18:1-19:42). Read the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
Reflection: Today is “Good” Friday. Question is always asked why this day is called “Good?” In John’s account of the Passion, nothing “good” happens to Jesus. In fact, all that happens to Jesus is very bad. It begins with Judas’ betrayal, one of his apostles, who walked with Jesus for 3 years, heard His preaching, saw His miracles, had his feet washed, and yet he betrayed him. After his arrest, Jesus is scourged, crowned with thorns, repeatedly struck and tortured. When he needs them the most, all of Jesus’ closest friends flee and desert him. Peter denies Jesus 3 times. Jesus carries his cross on the way to Calvary. He is mocked, spit upon, whipped. Jesus is stripped of his clothes. He is then crucified, and he suffers for 3 hours and dies an agonizing and horrible death. So, how can this be called “good?”
At the beginning of John’s passion, we heard that “Jesus knew everything that was going to happen to him.” Jesus knew what God called him to on this day. Jesus lived out his Father’s plan and did his father’s will through obedience, true humility and self-sacrificing love. Jesus placed all of his hope and trust in God his Father. This is “Good.” While on the cross, before he died, Jesus entrusted his mother to John and to us so Mary could be our mother. This is “Good.” Then Jesus speaks His final words, “It is finished.” He says this not in defeat, but in triumph. Jesus completed his mission on earth. He showed us how to live and love unconditionally and to serve others. This is “Good.” We learn that through the suffering of Jesus we receive the greatest of all blessings. We receive forgiveness for our sins and eternal life. This is “Good.”
Archbishop Fulton Sheen said, “The law he gave us was clear, life is a struggle. Unless there is a cross in our lives, there will never be an empty tomb; unless there is a crown of thorns, there will never be a halo of light. Unless there is a Good Friday, there will never be an Easter Sunday.”
When Jesus was crucified and as He hung on the cross, WE were on his mind.
Good Friday in not only about death, but it is also about love. The Cross is not the end, but the doorway to resurrection. As we venerate the Cross today, may we look upon it not only with sorrow, but with deep gratitude. Because in this darkest hour, love wins.
Back to the original question, why do we call this day “Good?” Today and every day we can say, “Lord, by your cross and resurrection, you have set us free. You are the Savior of the world.” And that is GOOD!
Reflection: On this Good Friday, even though it is NOT a Holy Day of Obligation, attend a Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at your parish. Then reflect on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ and all the Good things that our Lord did for you.
Audio Reflection:
Beautiful! Powerful! Thank you, Deacon Mike.