Roy’s Ramblings

We all know of the acronym T.G.I.F – Thank God It’s Friday!! I mean there is actually a restaurant named this and when they first opened they always had a big special on one menu item on Friday to celebrate the day. When I came to Nashville three years ago our Friday email was already named “It’s Friday but Sunday is Coming”. Those who work a 40 hour work week (if there truly is such a thing anymore) are always looking for that 5 o’clock whistle on Friday to start the glorious weekend.

But, this Friday is different … maybe we should give it a new acronym … T.I.G.F (This Is Good Friday). This is a big deal in the Christian Year – it is up there with Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost – it is a day to recognize and remember. Jesus died on what we now call Good Friday.

We all know the whole story – Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem – the plot and plan – the night with the disciples – foot washing (master turned servant) – Passover meal becomes the Lord’s Supper – the arrest / trial / denial / shame / embarrassment – the beating – and ultimately the crucifixion. We know Jesus’ last words – the salvation for the thief – the love for his mother – the quote from psalm 22 – and ultimately the final: “It is finished” followed by “Father, into Thy hands I commend my spirit.”

And then Jesus Died.

But as I wrote at the start – we are a “It’s Friday but Sunday is Coming” people. We do know the rest of the story. But for now, we wait … in eager anticipation. Will the stone be rolled away – will the women see the empty tomb – will the disciples see the risen Jesus – will we be forever forgiven and grace filled and be one with the Father in all hopes of an eternal kingdom?

Let us patiently wait … let us patiently pray … let us patiently just be … for it is Friday … but …

Peace to you all – Beautiful People

Pastor Roy