New Community of Faith

Recently, in trying to explain to my neighbor’s the significance of this day, they asked why it is called “Good Friday”. Ultimately, something good came from this terrible story of Jesus’ crucifixion and death. However, every time I read the story on this day, I’m stirred to call it “Holy Friday” as it is in some parts of the world. The story moves me to silence, reflection, and grief.

In my Lenten reflection today, we read the part of Holy Friday’s story from the gospel of John. In verse 25, John shares that Jesus was not alone while on the cross. Standing nearby were his mother, his mother’s sister, and Mary Magdalene. In verse 26, it says, “When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.”

After Jesus stated he was thirsty and was given sour wine to quench his thirst, he declared, “It is finished.” He bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Even at the moment of his death, Jesus was showing concern for someone else. He entrusted them into the care of each other. He created community with those who were suffering because of his death. I am thankful for the community that I have the opportunity to create. When I’m rejoicing or suffering, it’s persons in my created communities I know I can depend on. I’m thankful for the model that Jesus, even in his time of suffering, gave us in how to create community.

I’m thankful for the community we create at New Community of Faith. It’s a community where everyone is welcome and no one is turned away. We believe, because of the countless life-giving acts of Jesus, we are to follow in his footsteps in our community. We don’t always get it right. But, most of the time, we try to live on the side of God’s great love and compassion for the world. We try to be there for one another in the seasons this life has to offer.

Tonight, on this Holy Friday, I can call it “Good”. It is good because of compassionate community that was created at the foot of the cross and teaches us how to be community with one another today. Amen.