Jesus, the Love at the Heart of Everything

Jesus, the Love at the Heart of Everything – Today is Good Friday when we remember the crucifixion of Jesus and his hours on the cross. The Good Friday Meditation is given by the Rev. Will McLean, our Pastor of Spiritual Formation, and the scripture is the account of the crucifixion and hours on the cross as recorded in Luke 23. Will begins by noting how unsettling it is to be in this service with the story of the crucifixion, no flowers, no paraments on the table, altar or pulpit or lectern. He also points out that we as individuals have unsettling experiences. In addition, Jesus is suffering crucifixion, the ultimate disgrace and punishment in that era. But we note that from the cross Jesus utters those words, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Then he assures one of the convicted criminals being crucified with him that today that criminal will be with him in paradise. And, finally, he offers, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” These offer, in this unsettling time, love of forgiveness, invitation, and trust, all of which are a good foundation of grace. The church Jesus thus established extends our arms to the world in the knowledge that we can trust our deepest selves to God’s love.