Good Friday always brings mixed emotions for me. On the one hand, I know it is the beginning of a celebration that at its very core is the basis of who I am. Good Friday leads to Easter Sunday. The day of resurrection. The day that death was overcome, Satan was defeated, and victory was proclaimed forevermore. But in order for that to occur, a sacrifice had to be made.

Jesus died for me. He shed His precious blood. He sacrificed Himself. He was mocked. He was tortured. All so that I would not have to die. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 (NIV)

I deserve to die. I am a sinner. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NIV)

And yet, if you look again at Romans 6:23, it says that rather than death, I receive a gift. The gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus. But the gift is not just in Christ Jesus; it is because of Christ Jesus.

God required a sacrifice. He is holy and righteous and just. He cannot look upon me in my sin. Jesus said that He would be that sacrifice. He who was perfect and sinless, who had done nothing wrong. Because He loves me that much.

Yes, today I am filled with mixed emotions. My heart is grieved that He had to suffer so horribly because of me, but at the same time, my heart is filled to overflowing with love and gratitude for the One who is my Savior.

Thank You, Lord Jesus. I love You!

Blessings,