Good Friday Reflection

In this moment, as we witness the young African American couple deeply saddened by the crucifixion of Jesus on this Good Friday, we are reminded of the universal human experience of facing loss, disappointment, and shattered hopes.

We are called to reflect on the deeper meanings of suffering and sacrifice in times of great despair and sorrow. Although Jesus’s crucifixion was a moment of profound pain and loss, it also carried with it the message of redemption, forgiveness, and the promise of new beginnings.

As the couple refuses to believe that their hopes and dreams have been shattered, they embody resilience and faith in the face of adversity. Their sorrow can be seen as a transformative experience, leading them to explore the depths of their beliefs and values and ultimately find strength and renewal in their spiritual journey.

On this Good Friday, remember that moments of despair and loss can ultimately lead to profound growth and transformation. Through their sorrow, the young African American couple can find solace in the enduring message of hope and redemption at the heart of the Easter story.

Scripture

But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises, we are healed.

Isaiah 53: 5 (NRSV)

Prayer

Dear Holy One,

As we reflect on Jesus’s suffering and death on the cross, we are reminded of the immense love and mercy you have for us. Help us remember the depth of your love and the magnitude of your grace, even amid our struggles and trials. May the message of Good Friday resonate in our hearts and minds, guiding us to live lives of faith, hope, and love. We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

Patient and Positive

 

It is good to remain positive and patient in adversity. Remember, challenges are an inevitable part of life’s journey, and they do not define your worth or potential.

Here are some pieces of advice for you:

2. Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself during tough times. Understand that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and seek support when needed. Practice self-care and self-compassion to nurture your mental and emotional well-being.

3. Community Support: Contact your community, friends, or support groups for assistance. You are not alone, and some people are willing to offer help and guidance. Building a solid support system can give you the strength and resources to navigate difficult situations.

4. Cultivate Resilience: Remember that resilience is not about avoiding adversity but facing it with courage and adaptability. Believe in your inner strength and ability to overcome obstacles. Each challenge you overcome will make you stronger and more resilient.

5. Role Model for Your Child: Your resilience, positivity, and determination in the face of difficulties will be a powerful example for your child. Show them the importance of perseverance, optimism, and compassion in navigating life’s challenges.

Remember, you are capable, resilient, and deserving of a bright future. Keep moving forward with faith in yourself and believing that better days are ahead.

Scripture

Not only that, but we also boast about our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance. Endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit given to us.

Romans 5:3-5 (NRSV)

Prayer

Holy God,

Please help us to remain positive, patient, and resilient in the face of adversity. Grant us the courage to face our struggles with faith and hope, knowing that your love and grace will see us through. May we find comfort in your presence and peace in your promises. Thank you for your endless love and mercy. Amen.

Lenten Devotional and Prayer

Lent is a time of repentance, fasting and preparation for the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ. It is a time of self-examination and reflection. During Lent, Christians focus on restoring their relationship with God, often choosing to give up something or draw closer to God in other ways. The Lenten season lasts for forty days, not counting Sundays; it begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday. The forty days represent the time Jesus spent in the wilderness, enduring the temptation of Satan and preparing to begin his ministry.

 

Lenten Prayer

Holy God, we come today confessing that we have sinned against you and against our neighbors in thought, word, and deed. We have sinned by what we have done and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with all our heart, mind and strength.  We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have not forgiven others as we have been forgiven. We come acknowledging that you created us from dust, and to dust we shall return. Have mercy on us.

 

Give us strength to struggle against everything that leads us away from the love of God and neighbor. Forgive us for turning a blind eye to human suffering  and injustice. Pardon us for our pollution of your creation and for our waste of its resources.

 

Accept our repentance as we draw closer to God through our acts of fasting, prayer, and devotion. Give us strength to persevere in our Lenten journey to the Cross.

 

In your Holy Name we pray. Amen.