"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession."
~ Hebrews 4:14
I had to come on for just a moment. On this Good Friday, a day of sorrowful joy. Can there really be two such opposite emotions rolled up into one?
Yes, oh glorious yes!
My own heart is filled today in humbleness and awe. That Jesus has done such a deed for me (and you)!! The pain, the sadness, and love that filled his own heart that day so long ago; still fills him today.
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin."
~ Hebrew 4:15
There are so many of us lost to him right now. Some from my own family; and I can only assume that Jesus on the Cross is still there; for them hurting and waiting for them to see him. No, I don't assume this I know it. My God, if only they turn to see you. I pray for them daily.
I pray, as I pray for myself, who is weak and lazy in so many ways.
"Let us be confident then approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help."
~ Hebrew 4:16
In the same day that sadness seems to cover everything; a great joy is there too. Especially in a home of love and children. How can I tell my kids 'be sad today' and not allow them to laugh or play? It's a day of such mixed feelings, isn't it? The same feeling that follows us in parenthood too.
We are fasting yet, baking our hot cross buns for a later meal.
We are watching the Passion of Christ Holy Mass from St. Peter's Basilica, so beautiful!
We are listening to the gospel in Latin, the somber sounds; yet Cecilia breaks the silence every now and the with a chuckle. Noises of her playing.
We will be in church most of the afternoon. Then gather with The Lineman (who couldn't get today off) afterwards, perhaps spend time in the garden.
So even, if I want to be sad; I am quickly reminded by my family and the doing about of today; what Good Friday ultimately brought us. Eternal life with Him.
Today, especially we celebrate life. In that our dear friends have welcomed in their 7th baby boy. He has been given a beautiful and powerful name (3 saint's name for one tiny little soul); born today on Good Friday! No pressure, sweetie (hahaha)...
Be in the moment of this day. Remember it's huge significance. Praise Him often. He, who gave SO SO much.
O Jesus, Who by reason of Thy burning love for us
hast willed to be crucified
and to shed Thy Most Precious Blood
for the redemption and salvation of our souls,
look down upon us here gathered together
in remembrance of Thy most sorrowful Passion and Death,
fully trusting in Thy mercy;
cleanse us from sin by Thy grace,
sanctify our toil,
give unto us and unto all those who are dear to us our
daily bread,
sweeten our sufferings,
bless our families,
and to the nations so sorely afflicted,
grant Thy peace,
which is the only true peace,
so that by obeying Thy commandments
we may come at last to the glory of heaven.
Amen.
