A "Higher Love" On Good Friday

This is the "higher form of love" that Jesus calls each of you to: to give of yourself, not until you are fed up, but until you are raised up—up upon a cross.

Whatever your situation, it may not end as you would like (and nor should you feel you need to remain in a situation in which you or your family are in danger, or it is debilitating beyond your ability to function, etc….) However, your suffering will not go unnoticed nor be wasted. For through this crucible, Christ will sanctify your soul. And this is an immeasurable gift that will bear enormous fruit for the rest of your life and into eternity.

How many trials I have had in the past that, at the time, I wish would have disappeared, such a death. But looking back, I see that these trials have been part of the royal road toward holiness, and I would not give them up for anything, since they were permitted by God’s will. The path to holiness is not lined with roses, but the blood of the martyrs.

If your trial makes you angry, then tell God you’re angry. He can take it. You can certainly pray to have the trial taken away:
Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done. Luke 22:42

It requires faith to pray this way. Do you lack it? Then listen to the next verse:
And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him. Luke 22:43

What I’m saying here will make some of you angry. "You don’t understand!" No, I probably don’t. There are many things I don’t understand. But I do know this: every crucifixion in our lives will be followed by a resurrection if we but persevere.

In each and every painful test…there is only one place to go: into the darkness of the tomb to wait for the Light of Dawn. And every time in those nights of faith—every time—Jesus was there. He was always there in the tomb with me, waiting, watching, and praying with me until the sorrows turned to peace, and darkness to light. Only God could do that. Only a supernatural grace from the Living Lord could conquer the utter blackness which surrounded me. He was my Rescuer… He is my Rescuer.

Yes, this is the hour of temptation for many of you, to either trust in Jesus or to run. To follow Him now in His Passion—your passion—or to join the throngs who mock Him and reject the scandal of the Cross. This is your Good Friday… but if you persevere… Eastern morn will truly come.