A Good Day for Us All

Scripture – Mark 12:28-34: ²⁸One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” ²⁹“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. ³⁰Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ ³¹The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” ³²“Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. ³³To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” ³⁴When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.

Reflection: What was the teacher of the law missing? He was not far from the kingdom of God, but apparently not in it, either.

He had the idea that loving God and neighbor was more important than religious rituals. Had he not put that into practice? Was it that he left out Jesus’ reference to loving God with all your soul? What was he missing?

I don’t know the answer to that. I do know, in Christ, I’m not missing anything. By His grace I am in the kingdom right now. I have eternal life right now.

This is Good Friday – the day we observe as the day Christ died on the cross. Because He did that, I have forgiveness for my sin and the promise of life everlasting. So do you! Have you received that promise? Where are you in relation to the kingdom of God?

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for taking your cross. Thank you for loving me so much. I don’t deserve what you’ve given. That’s why this Friday is called “Good.” Because of your cross, I don’t get what I deserve.

Two Special Invitations: We’re having a Good Friday worship experience at 7:30pm tonight at the church (Bethel Baptist, 13330 Trenton Road, Southgate). Everyone’s welcome.

On Sunday, we’re having an Easter Sunrise Service outside at Lions Park in Southgate, beginning at 7:15am. (The sun is due to rise at 7:30am.) Dress warm and come join us as we begin our Easter celebrations.