Black Friday

So they took Jesus, and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” (John 19:16-19 ESV). Traditionally the day after Thanksgiving is called “Black Friday” in our country. That’s the day when most of the bog stores open early with incredible sales for the thousands of buyers who are fortunate enough to arrive early enough that the merchandise is not sold out. I’ve never personally participated in Black Friday. Some folks take it pretty seriously though. They arrive early, some spending the night outside the store of choice. This insures they will be able to get to their choices first. I’ve seen others who go so far as to have a map of the store to make sure they don’t waste any steps in their quest for the deals of the day. Once the doors are open for business, it becomes a mad dash to the choicest sales. Electronics, clothes, appliances, and all sorts of other things are sold at bargain prices. I’m sure the savings are real and the shopping exciting; however, I have never really participated. If I’m going to sit in freezing weather in the dark pre-dawn hours, it will only be with the hope of seeing my dream buck step out of the woods for a clear shot! I suppose it could be said that I am just as silly about deer hunting as others are about sale hunting! Regardless of that, the real black Friday is not a sales event. Rather, it is the day that Jesus died nearly two thousand years ago. That Friday was dark indeed. It was at that time when God finished the work of reconciliation for those whom he had chosen to receive his grace. It is strange how easy we seem to forget that day, especially at this time of the year. We emphasize Christmas. The birth of Jesus is a much easier picture to deal with than the cross. However, the birth of Jesus is not nearly as efficacious as his death. Without his death he would have been a great teacher, a fine rabbi, a pioneering religious leader, and a wonder worker of no match; but, he would not have been the Savior of the world. We need a Savior. God sent his Son. Today, as you are shopping, visiting with family, watching ball games, eating leftover turkey, or any other activity this holiday, please remember the reason for joy is found in Christ and his grace.