Give me a word, Lord: HOLY WEEK: CRUCIFIXION FRIDAY

John 19: 28-30 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Today we celebrate Good Friday, a day that was so gloomy and sad, but also a day that lead to redemption and salvation for us all. We continue our reflection on the events that lead up to that glorious resurrection day as we look at Friday’s events. This week, I have been sharing the words of a friend of mine for this Holy Week rather than my own words. The words were written by a friend of mine, Bro. William “Quentin” McCardle. Quentin was not only a friend, he was a pastor and a high school culinary arts teacher. He touched the lives of many during his short time on earth. Bro. Quentin was called to his heavenly home last year. However, he left behind a legacy. Each year during Holy Week, he shared a daily devotional describing the events of that particular day of the week. I have been honoring Bro. Quentin’s memory by sharing his writings in my blog this week. I pray that you have enjoyed these writings. Today I will share the last of Bro. Quentin’s Holy Week devotionals. Let us continue to savor the Word of God each day and realize the great price our Lord paid for our salvation. Please read John chapter 19 as part of your daily Bible readings today, but don’t forget your tissues. There will be tears. The following words are those of Bro Quentin.

I can’t help but wonder how many people truly know the reason we have Good Friday. It’s not about Easter Bunnies or garden planting nor is it “just another day.” Today is the commemoration of an event that changed the course of human history. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” the plan of salvation had been completed. Jesus accomplished what millions of gallons of animal blood couldn’t do! As the Lamb of God shed His blood the veil that stood between the priest and God was opened. We no longer need priests to cover our sins, Jesus is the High Priest and He makes intercession for us! Blessed be the Lamb of Glory. He paid a debt He didn’t owe because I owed a debt I couldn’t pay!