Good Friday?

“At the center of a biblical worldview is this radical recognition: the most horrible thing that ever happened was the most wonderful thing that ever happened.” - Paul Tripp

At some point in your life walking with Jesus, you must come to grips with these questions:

It’s a worthy question...and one we must wrestle with.

Many church walls, paintings, and necklaces all center on the cross. Why would Christianity choose the worst moment in history as its defining symbol?

We know Jesus died on the cross, but we often forget another event that took place that solemn day. It’s arguably the most stunning illustration of what the substitutionary death of Jesus accomplished.

Up to this point, the temple was the sacred place of worship. One area, called the Holy of Holies, was off-limits to anyone but the high priest, one day a year -- on the Day of Atonement. A large curtain hung as a barrier.  It was the visible separation between sinful humanity and a holy God. It’s estimated this curtain was 60 feet high and 4 inches thick, requiring around 300 people to move it.

Listen in on Matthew 27:50–51: “And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom…”

The barrier was torn in two, and a great exchange happened. Jesus took the punishment for our sin and granted us His righteousness. Yes, the most horrible thing that ever happened (Jesus dying on the cross) was also the most wonderful thing that ever happened (forgiveness of sin and direct access to the presence of God). This moment of death was, at the same time, an opportunity for the forgiven life WITH God!

Only God could accomplish redemption like that!

What a GOOD Friday.