Good Friday is a day Christians commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Despite its somber nature, it’s called “Good” Friday because of the ultimate good that came from Jesus’ sacrifice – the salvation of humanity.
The term “good” in Good Friday refers to:
– Paradoxical Goodness: The suffering and death of Jesus, though awful, were the dramatic conclusion of God’s plan to deliver humanity from sin, making the day “good” in a profound sense.
– Eternal Perspective: Jesus’ death and resurrection provide eternal life and redemption, making the day “good” in a spiritual sense.
– Victory over Death: Christ’s death was the death of death itself, and his resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian celebrations.
As the Bible says:
– “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20).
– “All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
– “O death, where is thy victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55).
The Exsultet Easter Proclamation beautifully captures this idea: “O happy fault… which gained for us so great a redeemer!” Good Friday is a day of reflection, prayer, and contemplation, focusing on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
