Good Friday seems like a strange name for a day in which we remember Jesus’ death. How can we read of the way He was mocked and beaten and nailed to a cross and say this is good? How can His suffering and death be good?

It is good because without His sacrifice we are bound for death and suffering. Our sin condemns us and we are powerless to change that on our own.

For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6

Helpless. It’s not a description we like to think of for ourselves, but it is true. We are helpless to be cleansed from sin by our own strength or effort.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Sinners. It’s a word that we don’t like to use or think about, especially in our culture today. But that’s what we are, and because of our sin we are destined for death and for eternity in hell.

For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. Romans 5:10

Enemies. Did you ever think about that? Our sin makes us enemies of God.In His holiness, our sin makes us destined for eternal separation.

While we were… helpless, sinners, enemies.

While we were… Christ died, God showed His incredible love, and we were reconciled.

That is why it is Good Friday. Because what we were is washed away by His blood.  And what we are is all that matters. Redeemed by His sacrifice, our debt is paid and we have the promise of eternity in Heaven with our God.

I was helpless. I was a sinner. I was an enemy. But I am not any longer and I praise God for that.