Matthew 27:50-54
50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit.
51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 54 When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!”
What makes Good Friday good? Today we remember Jesus’ death on the cross. To be clear, Jesus was God made Man, perfect in obedience, over-flowing with love, the one who came to save us. How could it be good that He died, and died so gruesomely?
The verses that follow verse 50 describe events that took place. It’s a news report not just symbolic language, but the wild stuff that followed is packed with meaning. Jesus’ death tore the curtain that separates God from man. His death shook the earth, the earth that groans longing to be renewed. His death lead to a small localized resurrection of some of the believers who had already passed, as the resurrection power of His atoning death spilled over like a tidal wave. And all this is just a symbol of what His death means for you.
Spend today in praise and reflection. Remember how good He is in giving Himself for you.
Prayer prompt: Lord, Your sacrifice is unparalleled. Teach me to see what You did for me, so I can see more of Your love and grow in worship.
Daily Reading: Luke 7:1-30 (Click or tap the Verses to read them on your device)
Bible Project Video (Click or tap the Bible Project Video to watch an excellent overview of Luke’s gospel.)
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