The ALTAR

GOOD FRIDAY
Theme: The Power of the Cross – The Seven Words of Jesus

Good Friday is not just a day of mourning—it is a day of divine transaction.
On the cross, Jesus was not just dying… He was speaking.

Every word He spoke carried power, meaning, and eternal impact.
The cross became a pulpit, and His words became the foundation of our salvation.

1. “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

📖 Luke 23:34

Even in pain, Jesus chose forgiveness.
He did not curse—He interceded.

If Jesus could forgive in His worst moment, then forgiveness is not optional for us.
Unforgiveness is a burden the cross already carried.

2. “Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.”

📖 Luke 23:43

A criminal, at his last moment, found mercy.

Lesson:
It is never too late to repent.
Grace is available—even at the edge of death.

3. “Woman, behold thy son!… Behold thy mother!”

📖 John 19:26–27

In the midst of suffering, Jesus cared for His mother.

Lesson:
God is mindful of relationships.
Spiritual responsibility does not end because of personal pain.

4. “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

📖 Matthew 27:46
This was the moment Jesus carried the full weight of sin.

Lesson:
He was forsaken so you would never be forsaken.
Even when God feels silent, He is still working.

5. “I thirst.”

📖 John 19:28

Jesus expressed human weakness.

Lesson:
He understands your pain, your weakness, your struggles.
You serve a Savior who feels what you feel.

6. “It is finished.”

📖 John 19:30

This was not a cry of defeat—it was a declaration of victory.

Lesson:
The work of salvation is complete.
Your sins are paid for. Your freedom is secured.
Stop fighting battles that Jesus already finished.

7. “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”

📖 Luke 23:46

Jesus surrendered completely to God.

The ultimate act of faith is surrender.
Your life is safest in God’s hands.

Conclusion
The cross was not the end—it was the turning point of destiny.

Forgiveness was released
Salvation was secured
Victory was declared

Jesus did not just die…
He finished the work

Because of the cross, your story has changed

Day 44

TOPIC: OUNJE ALE OLUWA (Holy Communion)

Beloved, today’s reflection centers on Onje Ale Oluwa — the Lord’s Supper. In Mark 14:17–21 and Luke 22:14–19, we see Jesus sharing bread and wine with His disciples, saying, “Do this in remembrance of Me.” The Holy Communion is not just a ritual; it is a covenant meal. The bread reminds us of His body broken for our healing, and the cup of wine symbolizes His blood shed for our forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Communion is a call to intimacy. It is not about empty tradition but about remembering Christ’s sacrifice and renewing our fellowship with Him. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11:27–28 that we must examine ourselves before partaking, so that we do not take it lightly. It is a meal of grace, a reminder that we are loved, forgiven, and united with Christ.

As we partake, let us do so with reverence, gratitude, and faith — knowing that His love is poured out for us, and His presence is with us always.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your body and blood. As we remember Your sacrifice, cleanse our hearts, renew our faith, and draw us closer to You. May this communion strengthen us to walk in love, holiness, and obedience until we see You face to face.

Amen