In the shadow of the Cross

Good Friday, a somber day in the Christian calendar, holds profound significance for Catholics worldwide. While the term “Good” might seem paradoxical given Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, it encapsulates the ultimate sacrifice and the promise of redemption.

In the shadow of the Cross

On this pivotal day in the liturgical year, here’s a guide to understanding and reflecting on the themes that make Good Friday truly “good” with information adapted by The Manila Times Lifestyle from the website YoungCatholics.com.

Finding the ‘good’ in Good Friday

The name “Good Friday” might initially seem contradictory, given the events it commemorates. However, this day is one of the most climactic in the liturgical year, second only to Easter Sunday.

Good Friday represents the day the “New Adam rectified the wrongs of the old Adam.” It marks the moment when the temple veil was torn, symbolizing the gates of heaven flung open, welcoming the waiting righteous to their eternal home.

Furthermore, the Catholic Church’s birth through baptism originates on this sacred day.

Good Friday embodies what some describe as a “Bright Sadness,” a profound blend of sorrow for Jesus’ suffering and the anticipation of His victory over death and sin.

The liturgies of this day, notably the Veneration of the Cross and the Reception of the Eucharist (friarworks.org/march-4-2/) from reserved Hosts, draw believers deeply into the mystery of Christ’s Passion. Good Friday creates a contemplative space for all through solemnity and the promise of resurrection, making it truly “good.”

Key reflections

Central to Good Friday is the remembrance of Jesus Christ’s death by crucifixion. It is a day of solemn fasting and abstinence, where traditional Mass is not celebrated. Instead, a profound service is held, encompassing the reading of Jesus’ Passion, the veneration of the Cross, and the distribution of communion consecrated on Holy Thursday.

The liturgy of Good Friday (see sidebar) is a tapestry rich in themes that resonate with the core of Christian faith.

Suffering and sacrifice: The First Reading from Isaiah portrays the suffering servant who bears the sins of many, aligning with Jesus’ immense sacrifice on the cross for humanity’s salvation.

Redemption and salvation: The readings emphasize redemption, presenting Jesus’ sacrifice as the avenue through which humanity finds salvation. The Second Reading from Hebrews underscores Jesus as the high priest offering a perfect sacrifice.

Unwavering faith and trust in God: Psalm 31 reflects Jesus’ profound trust in God, even in the face of impending death, encouraging believers to uphold their faith and trust in God’s plan during trials and tribulations.

Human weakness and Divine Mercy: The Letter to the Hebrews highlights Jesus’ empathy for human frailty, urging believers to confidently approach God’s throne of grace. This theme illuminates God’s boundless mercy and compassion towards humanity.

Fulfillment of Scripture: The events of Good Friday, as depicted in the Gospel according to John, fulfill Old Testament prophecies, especially the suffering servant in Isaiah, highlighting the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and God’s redemptive plan.

Love and forgiveness: Even amid excruciating suffering, Jesus’ actions and words epitomize divine love and the imperative to forgive. This serves as a potent reminder for believers to embody these virtues in their lives.

The Mystery of the Cross: Good Friday beckons Christians to contemplate the enigmatic and paradoxical nature of the cross: through death emerges life, and through suffering, redemption. It’s an invitation to discover hope in despair and life in death.

These themes not only form the core of Good Friday’s commemoration but also offer profound insights for reflection, prayer, and the embodiment of faith in daily life.

As we commemorate Good Friday today, let us immerse ourselves in these profound themes, allowing them to deepen our understanding of Christ’s sacrifice and renew our commitment to living out the teachings of love, forgiveness, and redemption in our lives.

* * *

Glimpse into Good Friday’s Mass Readings

First reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

This passage from Isaiah is a profound prophecy often called the “Suffering Servant” passage. It speaks of a servant who will suffer greatly, bearing the sins of many, but in the end, God will exalt and vindicate him.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 31

Psalm 31 is a heartfelt prayer for deliverance and trust in God’s unfailing love and protection. It expresses the psalmist’s confidence in God’s goodness, asking for God’s mercy and refuge in times of distress.

Second Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9

The reading from Hebrews emphasizes the compassionate and understanding nature of Jesus Christ, our high priest. Jesus is portrayed as the one who can sympathize with our weaknesses, having been tested in every way, yet without sin. Through his suffering and obedience, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

Gospel: John 18:1-19:42

This Gospel passage recounts the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. It includes the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, his trials before Pilate and Herod, his crucifixion, and, ultimately, his death and burial. The narrative highlights Jesus’ willingness to undergo suffering and death for the redemption of humanity, fulfilling the Scriptures and demonstrating God’s love and sacrifice for us.