What is so "good" about good Friday?

Ever wonder why Good Friday is called good? This is a day that is remembered as crucifixion day, execution day for one who had done nothing wrong. Not only had Jesus sought to do good, he had even sought good for those who were his enemies.

He said, "Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

Jesus taught that the ethic of the Kingdom of God involves turning the other cheek and going the extra mile (double any reasonable obligation). On this day, "good" Friday, Jesus demonstrated what the Kingdom of God looks like. Evil being overcome by good looks like Jesus on the cross. Walking into the teeth of evil, he faced the cross unafraid. Goodness towards even one's enemies is how the ultimate battle against evil would be won.

As he said, "It is finished," evil was struck with a mortal blow, not with a sword but love.

How do you and I respond to evil that we encounter? What can make good come from evil? Acts of loving sacrifice. What actions will we be required to face evil unafraid, not with a weapons of this world but a cross of love. May your acts of "good"ness today be cross shaped.

Be a Bridge and Not a Wall

Walls communicate, “You stay on your side, and I will stay on mine.”

Bridges say, “You’re welcome to come over. We are connected.”

God wants the walls that divide people to crumble so that no one is excluded from His love. God also wants us to appreciate our diversity as mankind. When Jesus announced that the Kingdom of God was at hand, he declared that a new race of people was being re-born, a new genesis. A new beginning in which all people could have something in common: a relationship with God Almighty. Walls bring divisions. The Spirit of God builds bridges that connect people, not walls that divide.

Is there a segment of the population that have walled off from getting to know and appreciate? Is there a group of people that you have written off as beyond God’s love and forgiveness?

Will you be a wall or a bridge builder?