Good Friday is the most important Christian "Holiday" in my opinion. Now, some might argue that Christmas is since it was the birth of Christ. However, without this dreadful day we would not be where we are today. We would not have the grace and mercy that God so willingly gives to each of us if we only take it. It is free, so why not???
Think about it like this, if Jesus hadn't died on that cross for our sins we wouldn't have the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our lives. Jesus had to die to give us the gift of the Holy Spirit. The disciples had Jesus to guide them but he knew there was more to fulfill. What love!
Did you know that Good Friday is celebrated all over the world?? For instance, in Canada, banks and government offices (at all levels) and public sector businesses are closed, along with most private sector businesses (except in Quebec). In Hong Kong, all businesses and government offices are closed for a public holiday. The Republic of Ireland, a predominantly Catholic country, prohibits all alcohol from being sold on Good Friday. The day is a bank holiday, but not a public holiday. All pubs and many restaurants in Ireland close for the duration of the day. In Germany, comedic theater performances and events which include public dancing are illegal on the day (although this restriction is enforced unevenly); cinemas and television are not affected, although many TV channels show religious material on the day. In South Africa, the government regulates the opening of businesses and entertainment outlets on this day (as with Christmas Day). All government offices, schools and certain businesses are closed on Good Friday by law. The buying and selling of alcohol is prohibited. In India, Good Friday is a Central Government as well as a State holiday, although Stock Markets are usually closed. I could name more but you get the picture. It isn't just celebrated in the United States.
Try to take a few minutes today to reflect on that dreadful day on a hill in Golgotha, and what it means to us as Christians.
No comments:
Post a Comment