Today is Good Friday and it was my turn to lead the service in the town square this morning. I am always amazed at how many people turn up from across the churches, and it is a great privilege to take part in the event.
As I was leading today, I got to walk at the front of the procession as we made our way through town toward the Roman Catholic Church for our united service. It was interesting to see the reaction the cross at the front of the walk received. There were some, older men, who removed their hats as we walked past. Several times I heard “oh yeah, it’s Good Friday”. Once, an older chap, drove past us swore and made a rude gesture.
The most interesting reaction came from a couple of teenagers as we approached our destination. The stood and discussed in really powerful terms what the message of Good Friday was and what it meant for them.
On that first Good Friday the crowds in Jerusalem had different reactions too. Some hoped this meant the end for Jesus. Some were distressed. Some, it meant nothing at all.
The question is, how do you react to the message of Good Friday?
O Christ, the Master Carpenter,
who at the last, through wood and nails,
purchased our whole salvation,
wield well your tools in the workshop of your world,
so that we who come rough-hewn to your bench
may here be fashioned to a truer beauty of your hand.
We ask it for your own name’s sake.
Amen [Traditional]