By Our King Stronger than Death
Today is Good Friday.
But for the disciples, it didn’t seem that good. It was probably the worst day of their lives.
They had placed all their hope, all their faith, and all their future in this Jesus of Nazareth. But now He was hanging between two thieves, His body broken beyond recognition.
This was not a good day for the disciples.
The Bible doesn’t give us an explanation of exactly what each of the disciples did during the crucifixion, but what we do know is that most of them fled. They were hiding, or watching the crucifixion from a safe distance. Some, like Peter, vocally denied Jesus. Others simply got out of the way, trying to blend into the crowd.
We know how this story ends. The disciples did not.
We can judge the disciples for their lack of faith, their lack of understanding. The following chapter highlights just how poorly they had understood Jesus’ plan:
John 20:9
(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)
But if we’re honest with ourselves, we’ve acted exactly like the disciples. We’ve acted like we didn’t know Jesus, we’ve doubted Him in our darkest moments, we’ve failed to understand His purpose in the midst of our trials.
This reflection might sadden us as we notice all the times we’ve fallen short, but there is good news.
Jesus has conquered the grave!
He’s conquered our doubt, our confusion. He’s stronger than our fears and our failures.
Today is Good Friday not because we are good.
Today is Good Friday not because the world is good.
Today is Good Friday not because death is good.
Today is Good Friday because Jesus is good! And we know that better things are coming!
Yes, there might be death today. Yes, there might be sadness and heartbreak and fear today. But Sunday is coming. There is a resurrection for all who desire His life in us!
Today is Good Friday.
We might not understand what’s so great about it, but we can put our doubt aside and focus on our King who is Stronger than Death!
Question: There are those who ignore Jesus’ resurrection, saying His teaching and example is enough. Do you agree?
Challenge: Believe that Jesus can bring new life today.
Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne saide, “I am making everything new!” Then he said “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”