This day, that day

This Good Friday, I'm joining others worldwide in contemplating the day of the crucifixion.

This day in 2020 we know more about God's plan,

Thanks to the gifts of hindsight and scripture.

But that one day, people were still in the dark.

That one day, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying 'Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?'

My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?

That day, His detractors passed by blaspheming Him, wagging their heads and saying,

If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.

That day, His closest friends and followers wept,

Because they saw a murderer set free and a Messiah murdered

That day, nothing made sense.

How could He who came to save, suffer this fate?

After all,

His birth was heralded by a star,

Wise men came to welcome Him with precious gifts

He was at the height of wisdom and power when He was taken

Surely, He was destined to accomplish greater things?

Why would God allow evil to triumph over something so patently good?

This day,

Is not too different from that day in some ways

The questions and hurts that plagued the early believers

Still blindside us as we encounter what we cannot explain,

But at least now, we know the hope that Sunday brings,

The promise of Resurrection

That moment when the angel says to us,

Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.

He is not here; for He is risen.

And this day, like that day,

We find hope in turnarounds through God.