Good Friday

Isaiah 52:13-53
Psalm: 30(31):2,6,12-13,15-17,25
Hebrews 4:14-16;5:7-9
John 18:1-19.14

THANK YOU JESUS FOR YOUR UNFAILING LOVE

At the beginning of today’s liturgy, a profound moment unfolded as the celebrant lay prostrate before the altar, shrouded in silence. There were no introductory rites or entrance songs—just a bare altar and an empty sanctuary, creating a solemn atmosphere that reverberated with the Church’s deep grief.

It’s as if the collective sorrow in this sacred space could only be expressed through this ancient act, honoring the heart-wrenching sacrifice of Christ. For three agonizing hours, the sun was darkened, and the heavens seemed to dim as the Light of the World hung on the cross, surrendering to death. In that moment, words felt futile. God incarnate had endured unimaginable torture, crucifixion, and mockery, and now, He lay lifeless. It felt as though evil had triumphed.

Yet, this is merely the dawn of a new life! When Jesus cries out on the cross, “I thirst… It is finished,” He transforms the very meaning of suffering. Every hardship can be redemptive when we immerse it in Christ’s sufferings, granting us the power to overcome. Today, the world is laden with suffering, but through thanksgiving to God for the gift of His only Son, we share in His example of holiness and obedience. We, too, are called to surrender to God and embrace His will each day.

In John 19:25-27, moments before His final breath, Jesus turns to His mother and says, “Woman, behold thy Son… Son, behold thy Mother.” Mary is an incredible woman—brimming with courage and grace. Every aspect of her life points directly to Jesus. Her powerful “Yes” at the Annunciation—“I am the Handmaid of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your word”—changed everything!

We see her unwavering strength in the miracle at the wedding at Cana, her devotion as she stood by Jesus even when He was lost in the temple, and her heart-wrenching journey along the Via Dolorosa. Witnessing His mockery, torture, and the pain inflicted upon Him, she accepted God’s plan, even when it felt like her world was crumbling around her—her only Son facing such dire circumstances.

Every time we gaze upon the cross, Jesus invites us to behold our Mother. But what does this mean? Rejecting Mary means rejecting Jesus, for she is intimately connected to Him—the heart of the Mother and the heart of the Son. Our Lady bestowed upon us the Rosary, a beautiful tradition reflecting the mysteries of Christ. This is the ultimate love story, inscribed in the precious beads we meditate upon.

Don’t let the grace of this Good Friday slip away! I urge you not to fear Jesus. No one loves you like He does. No one can lay down His life for you as He did.

We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You, for by Your holy cross, You have redeemed the world!

Fr Joseph Osho