Why is ‘good friday’ good?

The execution is recorded in John 19. Jesus was whipped with a lead-tipped throng of leather straps until the flesh on his back lay open. Thorns, twisted into the shape of a crown, were pushed into his head. He was made to carry His own cross. Nails were hammered into His hands and feet. He heard the sobs of His mother. He heard others mocking Him. Then, His Holy Father who could not gaze upon sin, turned His face away as His Son paid the penalty for every sin of every person in the whole world. Unlike the other two prisoners being executed with Him, whose legs were broken to hasten their death, Jesus had already died when the guards came to Him. Even so, a spear was thrust into His side spilling forth blood and water. It happened on a Friday. Why was this a good day?

If Friday’s death had not happened, there would be no Sunday Resurrection. Resurrection meant Jesus had conquered death. Jesus had conquered sin. Jesus, innocent, had paid a penalty which was ours, guilty, to pay. If His payment is accepted by any of us, then forgiveness of our sin is granted, being already paid for, and we are promised eternal life after death with Jesus forever. In the City of God, there are no more tears, or grief, or sorrow, or pain, or sickness, or death. In the City of God there is peace and joy for ever and ever and ever.

“For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

That’s why today is celebrated as ‘Good Friday.’ Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

If you don’t know Him personally, I hope today you will call out to Him. He will forgive any sin if you just ask; and then, He makes you into a new person filled with endless hope and peace no matter what falls upon your path. All of this because of — Good Friday.