Dear Pali Pres,
Today, Good Friday, is the darkest of days for us as Christians—the day Jesus was crucified for the sins of the world. That is why we dare to call this day “good”—because of what the death of Jesus means for us and all the world. As Paul writes, “Through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross” (Colossians 1:20). It is because of today that we have all been reconciled to God, and can live forgiven and peace-filled lives.
I do hope you will join us this evening at 7:00pm, in person or via live-stream, as we gather and reflect together on the meaning of this day. It is such a blessing to be partnering with our friends at Brentwood Presbyterian Church for this service; Pastor Dave and Pastor Lora will help lead tonight’s service and their congregation has been invited to join ours on this most holy day.
Whether you can join us for worship or not, I do encourage you to spend this day in prayer and reflection as we honor the loving sacrifice of our Lord. I share the following prayer with you as one that speaks to my heart this day:
Holy God, your Word, Jesus Christ, spoke peace to a sinful world and brought humanity the gift of reconciliation by the death he endured. Teach those who bear his name to follow the example he gave us. May your life-giving power at work in us turn hatred to love, conflict to peace, and sorrow into joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
[adapted from a prayer by the PCUSA Office of Theology and Worship]
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Matt