Scripture Reading:
“When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’ And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.”
—John 19:30 (NABRE)
Good Friday is the most solemn day of the liturgical year. It is the day we stand at the foot of the Cross, witnessing the suffering and death of our Lord. The world goes quiet as Jesus breathes His last. It is a day of sorrow, but also of overwhelming love—for this is the moment Christ fulfills His mission, offering Himself completely for our salvation.
Jesus’ final words, “It is finished,” are not words of defeat but of victory. He has accomplished the work the Father sent Him to do. Every wound He bore, every insult He endured, every drop of blood He shed was for love—love for you, love for me, love for all humanity. The Cross, once a symbol of shame, has become the greatest sign of God’s mercy.
Today, we are invited to kneel before the Cross and reflect on the price of our redemption. Do we truly understand the depth of Christ’s love? Do we take time to contemplate what He endured for us? Good Friday calls us to gratitude, repentance, and deeper trust. It calls us to surrender our sins, knowing that His sacrifice has already paid the price.
As we venerate the Cross today, let us not look away. Let us remain with Jesus in His suffering, just as Mary and John did. Let us bring to Him our burdens, our wounds, our sins, and place them at His feet. And as we await the joy of the Resurrection, let us remember that love has the final word.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You bore the weight of my sins upon the Cross, suffering and dying out of love for me. Help me never to take Your sacrifice for granted. Teach me to embrace my own crosses with faith and to love as You love. May I remain close to You in suffering, trusting that through Your Passion, new life will come. Amen.
Reflection Question:
How can I honor Christ’s sacrifice in my daily life? What sin or burden do I need to surrender at the foot of the Cross today?
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