GOOD FRIDAY

Begin today by reading: Luke 22:63 - 23:47

The centurion was in charge of the soldiers who captured and crucified Jesus that fateful Good Friday. After seeing what happened, however, the centurion is one of the first to praise God for Jesus. Quite an about face ... if you don't mind the pun.

So what did he see happen? Well, he saw Jesus being mocked and beaten by the soldiers and yet not respond with violent words or actions. He saw Jesus being dragged back and forth between Pilate and Herod, only to be found innocent of any crime. He saw Jesus nailed to the cross and heard him cry out, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." He saw the criminal ask to be remembered when Jesus came into his kingdom, and he heard Jesus reply, "Today you will be with me in paradise." Then he saw Jesus breathe his last breath and pray: "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."

The centurion saw all of that happen. He saw an innocent man be falsely accused and abused. He saw an amazing display of God's love and forgiveness. He saw the hope of new beginnings and new life forever with God. What he saw happen touched his heart deeply. He knew in that moment he was not gazing on any ordinary person. He was gazing at someone righteous and holy. In Matthew’s and Mark's Gospels, the centurion says, "Surely He is the Son of God!" In the company of all the other soldiers, in the company of the crowd, and in the company of all those who plotted to kill Jesus, the centurion praises God and makes a bold statement of faith about Jesus.

This Good Friday, we are invited to gaze with the centurion at our crucified Savior — the righteous, holy Son of God who committed no sin and yet took our sin upon himself so that he could offer us forgiveness and new life with God forever. He did that for you and for me and for all who will believe in Him. Let that Good News sink deep into your heart and bubble up in praises and proclamations of faith.

Take Action

-Praise God for sending Jesus to take your sin upon himself so that he could offer you forgiveness and new life with God forever.

-If you've never done it before, place your faith in Jesus and receive his amazing grace.

-Boldly tell others about who Jesus is — those you work with, those in your crowd, etc.