Pastor Larry Sundin
On Good Friday we will remember what Jesus did for us on the Cross of Calvary. What he did for you and me on that cold dark day more than 2,000 years ago is still as relevant today as when he hung on that cruel tree. For when Jesus died there for you and me, what Jesus did on that cross changed everything.
For one, mercy was poured out on that cross. For when Jesus cried out, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do,” Jesus made it possible for you to be forgiven and for your life to be redeemed. Our God is the God of second chances. No matter how you’ve messed up or whoever you’ve failed, Jesus secured God’s mercy for you on that cross. He made it possible for you to be forgiven on that cross, and that changes everything for anyone who needs forgiveness.
Secondly, death was defeated on that cross. For when Jesus responded to the thief on the cross by saying, “Today, you will be with me in paradise,” Jesus promised that the way to life with God is found through faith in Him. In other words, on that cross Jesus suffered the death we all deserve. But once he suffered death for our sins, he took away the punishment for sin, which is eternal death. So that now, when you trust in Jesus, the penalty for your sin is removed and God’s justice is completely satisfied. Now there is no more fear of death or judgment, but life with God. So, yes, the cross changes everything.
Finally, God’s love was demonstrated on that cross. For when Jesus declared, “It is finished,” He announced that God’s love for you is complete. Scripture says it this way: “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:6-7. When we look at the horrific suffering of the cross all we can see is evil at its worst. But when we look at how Jesus was willing to take the worst that evil could throw at him, and realize he did this for us—well, then we see the greatest act of love imaginable. That’s why the cross changes everything. And now, the love of God is available to anyone who believes!
So yes, the cross changes everything. And that’s why we are inviting you to celebrate Good Friday with Rock Springs Church. We’ll be gathering in the Hermosa Ballroom at 6:30 p.m. on April 7, and we’d love to have you join us. And don’t forget the greatest celebration of all, Resurrection Sunday. We’ll be celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, Sunday morning, April 9. We hope you can celebrate with us!