Scripture: Matthew 27:11-61

For those present, Friday of Holy Week was anything but good. Jesus was mocked and ridiculed. The crowds that once cried out, “Save us!” began to shout, “Kill Him!” The beating, mocking, and shaming continued until the King of Kings and Lord of Lords breathed his last breath suffocated by the weight of his own body. The disciples, the ones who had given their lives to believe in this person, watched all their faith and hope brutally die. How could this be “good?” How could any of this be called “good?” The circumstances of Friday might not have been good, but the gift Jesus offers you through the cross is. The gift of hope, forgiveness, rescue, and new life. The question is – what are you going to do with this new life? 

Life Application:

• Genesis 50:20 says, “What you have meant for evil, God has meant for good.” Have you witnessed this truth in your life? Jesus died so you could have a new life. What are you going to do with this new life?
• Invite a friend to join you for Easter at Venture this weekend.
• Join us tonight on your campus for prayer and worship at Good Friday Prayer at 6 p.m. 

Prayer Prompt:

• Ask God to do a work in you, your family, your campus, and your community this weekend.
• Praise God for His love, His grace, and His goodness today! 
• Pray Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”