Why Good Friday is the Holiest Day of the Year
Good Friday stands at the heart of the Christian faith. It is the day when Jesus Christ, the Son of God, suffered and died on the cross for the salvation of humanity. While the name “Good Friday” may seem paradoxical—given that it commemorates Christ’s suffering and death—it is “good” because His sacrifice opened the gates of heaven and restored our relationship with God.
For Catholics, Good Friday is a solemn and sacred day, marking the culmination of Jesus’ Passion. It is a time of deep reflection, prayer, fasting and repentance. It is also the only day in the liturgical year when the Mass is not celebrated, emphasizing the sorrow and mourning of the Church as it remembers Christ’s death.
The Passion of Christ: Understanding His Ultimate Sacrifice
The Passion of Christ, which refers to the suffering and death of Jesus, is the central event of Good Friday. From the agony in the Garden of Gethsemane to His last breath on the cross, Jesus endured immense physical and emotional pain—all out of love for humanity.
The Suffering of Christ
Jesus was betrayed by Judas, abandoned by His disciples, falsely accused and sentenced to death. He was scourged, mocked, crowned with thorns, and forced to carry His cross to Golgotha. Every step of His suffering fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament, especially Isaiah’s description of the Suffering Servant:
“He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”(Isaiah 53:5)
The crucifixion itself was one of the most brutal forms of execution, designed to prolong suffering. Jesus endured excruciating pain, not only from the nails that pierced His hands and feet but also from the weight of humanity’s sins. And yet, in His suffering, He continued to show love and mercy.
The Ultimate Act of Love
Jesus’ death was not just a tragic event—it was a willing sacrifice. He took on the sins of the world and bore them on the cross so that we might have eternal life. His suffering was redemptive, a perfect offering to the Father for the salvation of souls. His death tore the veil of the Temple in two (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing that through His sacrifice, all people now have access to God’s mercy.
The Seven Last Words of Jesus and What They Mean for Us
While hanging on the cross, Jesus spoke seven final statements, often referred to as the Seven Last Words. Each one carries deep theological and spiritual meaning.
1. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)
Even in His suffering, Jesus extended mercy to those who crucified Him. This teaches us the power of forgiveness, even in the face of great injustice.
2. “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Jesus speaks these words to the repentant thief, offering him the promise of salvation. This reminds us that God’s mercy is always available, even in the final moments of life.
3. “Woman, behold your son… Son, behold your mother.” (John 19:26-27)
Jesus entrusts His mother, Mary, to the care of the Apostle John. This moment establishes Mary as the spiritual mother of all believers, reinforcing her role in our faith.
4. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
These words, taken from Psalm 22, express both Jesus’ deep agony and His trust in the Father. Even in suffering, He remains faithful to God.
5. “I thirst.”(John 19:28)
Beyond physical thirst, these words reflect Jesus’ longing for souls to turn to Him. His suffering is not just bodily—it is spiritual, rooted in His love for humanity.
6. “It is finished.” (John 19:30)
Jesus declares that His mission is complete. His sacrifice has fulfilled the prophecies and redeemed mankind. This is a moment of victory, not defeat.
7. “Father, into Your hands I commend My spirit.” (Luke 23:46)
Jesus surrenders Himself fully to God. His final words are an act of trust and love, showing us how to place our own lives in the hands of the Father.
Why Good Friday Matters Today
Good Friday is not just a historical event—it is a call to conversion and a reminder of the depth of God’s love. Through Christ’s Passion, we are invited to reflect on our own lives, turn away from sin, and embrace the gift of salvation.
How Can We Observe Good Friday?
Attend the Good Friday service – The Veneration of the Cross, Scripture readings and
prayers draw us into the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice.
Pray the Stations of the Cross – Walking through the Passion of Christ helps us meditate
on His suffering and love.
Fast and abstain from meat – This small sacrifice helps us unite with Jesus’ suffering.
Spend time in silent prayer – Reflecting on the Seven Last Words and the meaning of
the cross deepens our faith.
Good Friday is a day of sorrow, but also a day of hope. Christ’s death was not the end of the story. The cross leads to the resurrection, and through His sacrifice, we are given new life.
As we meditate on Good Friday, may we open our hearts to the love of Christ, who gave everything for us. His Passion is the ultimate act of love, and through it, we are called to live in His grace.
