In this reflection, the Revd Memona Shahbaz, Minister of several churches in Eastbourne within the United Reformed Church Southern Synod, explores why Good Friday, though marked by suffering and sorrow, is still called 鈥済ood鈥�.
This week, Christians around the world will observe Good Friday, a solemn and reverent day of sorrow that carries a profound message of redemption and hope.
For those who may wonder why we call this day 鈥済ood鈥�, the answer lies in the incredible act of love demonstrated by God. As Romans 5:8 reminds us: 鈥淕od demonstrates his love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
On this day, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, took upon Himself the sins of the world. He was betrayed by one of his own disciples, faced an unjust trial before the high priest, and was condemned by Pontius Pilate. Along this painful journey, he was mocked and beaten by Roman soldiers, forced to carry his cross, and ultimately crucified.
This moment reveals him as the true Passover sacrifice, fulfilling the ancient prophecy and opening the way for the forgiveness of sins.
In many churches, Good Friday is marked by a three-hour service, reflecting on the seven says of Jesus on the cross 鈥� a tradition also observed in Pakistan where I am from. It is called 鈥済ood鈥� because, through Christ’s sacrifice, salvation is offered as a free gift, received by grace through faith. His words from the cross 鈥� it is finished 鈥� proclaim the completion of his work and the opening of the way to eternal life for all who believe.
As we reflect on Good Friday, we are reminded of the call for justice and peace in our world. Jesus’ sacrifice speaks not only to personal salvation, but challenges the injustices and brokenness that harm humanity.
As we honour his sacrifice, let us commit ourselves to being instruments of justice, love, and peace in our communities.
Good Friday is indeed 鈥済ood鈥� because it is the day when love triumphed over sin, and hope was born anew. In this light, let us embrace the powerful message of grace and work towards a world marked by justice and lasting peace.
We pray:
Merciful God,
on this Good Friday we pause before the mystery of Your love鈥�
love that carried a cross,
love that bore the weight of our brokenness,
love that did not turn away.
As we remember the suffering of Jesus,
soften our hearts to the pain of the world
and strengthen us to walk in the way of justice, peace, and compassion.
May the shadow of the cross remind us
that hope is born even in darkness,
and that Your grace meets us where we are.
Lord, teach us to live as people shaped by the sacrifice of Christ鈥�
humbled, grateful, and ready to serve.
Amen.
*The Revd Memona Shahbaz is minster of Emmanuel Church, Broadway United Church, Trinnity Church Willingdon and St Barnabas United Church, all based in Eastbourne.
Main image: Alicia Quan/Unsplash.