John 15:5 NIV
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
"The Good in Good Friday: A Call to Transformation"
As we approach the weekend that Christians around the world recognize as Good Friday, have you ever stopped to ask: What is so good about this Friday? On that day, Jesus was betrayed by a friend, arrested on false accusations, denied by those closest to Him, mocked, spit on, ridiculed, and ultimately crucified. By all accounts, it was a day of suffering and injustice for Jesus—but for us, it is Good News!
Why? Because He took the punishment we deserved so that we might have the opportunity to be reunited with God. As our High Priest, Jesus became the perfect sacrifice, bearing the weight of our sins so that we could be made righteous before God (Matthew 26-27, Isaiah 53:3-11, Romans 3:21-31, Hebrews 4:14-16). But His suffering was not the end of the story. On Easter Sunday, we celebrate His resurrection—His victory over sin and death. He rose in a glorified body and ascended into heaven to prepare a place for all who accept His gift of salvation (Matthew 28, Romans 6:23).
But have you ever asked yourself: What happens next? Jesus died for our sins, but He also calls us to live transformed lives in Him. I remember being 16 years old, overwhelmed by the realization that Jesus endured all of this for me. I prayed, asking God, Is there more to this than simply being a grateful sinner, attending church, and going through religious motions? And in His faithfulness, God answered.
He showed me that following Christ isn’t just about acknowledging His sacrifice—it’s about allowing Him to transform my heart and life. It meant surrendering my will, recognizing that Annaika no longer lives for herself, but that Christ now lives in me through the Holy Spirit. That transformation meant I had to forgive if I wanted to be forgiven, love the unlovable just as Jesus loved me despite my flaws, and continuously grow in grace.
My friend, Jesus is coming back. And when He does, He will judge according to the very words He has spoken. Revelation 19:13 reminds us: “He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is the Word of God.”
This Good Friday and Easter, let’s take time to truly reflect: Is Jesus the vine that is transforming your life? Are you ready for His return?
