Good Friday, there is so much to rejoice about. It's the day we remember the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus paid for our sins. But it's also a day when we remember the pain, rejection and betrayal that Jesus experienced. The same people who welcomed Him as their Messiah, turned on him five day's later saying, “Crucify Him”. (Luke 23:21)
If this happened to Jesus, surely it can happen to us. One day we can be liked or celebrated, and another day unliked or rejected by a friend, family member or the person you thought you would marry or spend the rest of your life with.
The moment Jesus knew that he was going to be betrayed by Judas, one of the twelve disciples, he could have distanced himself from everyone, but He didn't. Instead, He allowed them to stay close.
At the end of the day we can't stop someone from betraying us, talking negatively about us or leaving us, but we can choose how we respond.
Walking in love can be a very hard thing to do in our own flesh, but if we surrender our feelings to God, it's not impossible.
Jesus went to the cross saying “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
To the very end He looked beyond their faults and saw their need, our need for a Saviour and whosoever believes in HIM will not perish, but have everylasting life. (John 3:16)
Where are you at today?
Have you forgiven those who have hurt you?
On this Good Friday know that good may not always feel good. But if we ask Jesus for His help to do what seems impossible, we can receive His grace to forgive and walk in love.
Tanika Chambers
