Good Friday Family Devotional

The Crucifixion

Read Matthew 27: 27-50

Jesus knew what was happening. He knew it wasn't going to be easy. He knew that our freedom from sin and death would cost His life.

After Pilate, the governor, gave Jesus over to be crucified, the soldiers took Jesus and beat Him They made fun of Him. Only a few days earlier, the people had cheered because they wanted Jesus to be their king. Now they watched while the soldiers put a robe on Him and pushed a crown of thorns into His head. They watched Him bleed and saw His hurts. They put a sign at the top of His cross. It read, "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews." They made fun of His power and told HIm to save Himself.

Then, in the darkest hour, Jesus cried out to His Father. He had cried out to His Father many, many times before. But this time was different. He asked His Father why He had left Him alone. But Jesus also knew that this darkness would bring light. He knew His pain would bring freedom. He knew His death would give you life.

Together:

• Have you ever felt forsaken or along? What was it like?
  
• The people made fun of Jesus. They said He couldn't save Himself. Why didn't Jesus save Himself?
  
• Jesus went through pain and loneliness so that you would never have to be alone. How does that make you feel?
  
• Thank Jesus for enduring the cross. Thank God that Jesus' death gave us life. 
  
• Praise God by singing verse 1 of "And Can It Be."
  

And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior's blood? Died He for me who caused His pain? For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be that though my God shouldst die for me? Amazing love, how can it be that thou, my God shouldst die for me?

-Charles Wesley, 1738