Easter Day 1: Remembering the Cross
Introduction
We come together with hearts of gratitude, reflecting on the price Jesus paid for our salvation. On this sacred day, we remember that He bore our sins and gave His life so that we might live. As it is written, “He was wounded for our transgressions” Isaiah 53:5, we are reminded that His sacrifice was not in vain. We choose to honour Him by turning away from sin, even the hidden things, and living lives that reflect His holiness. In this moment, we examine ourselves, asking God to search our hearts and help us walk in obedience and truth.
We also recognise that this is not just a day of remembrance but a call to transformation. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” John 14:15, so we commit to living faithfully, not returning to old ways. Together, we stay spiritually alert, supporting one another in prayer, worship, and unity. We acknowledge that we are not self-made, but strengthened by God and those He has placed around us. With thankful hearts, we press forward, determined to live a life worthy of His sacrifice, walking in grace, humility, and unwavering faith.
What is the significance of Good Friday according to the teaching?
We recognise Good Friday as a sacred moment of remembrance, where we reflect on the price Jesus paid on the cross for our salvation. It is not a day of despair, but a day of deep gratitude, knowing that through His sacrifice we have life and redemption. As it is written, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8. This truth calls us to pause, reflect, and honour what was done for us.
As we remember, we are stirred to live differently, not taking grace for granted but embracing a life of purpose and devotion. We hold onto the power of the cross, knowing that through it we are forgiven and made new, as declared in 1 Corinthians 1:18. In remembering, we align our hearts with God’s love and choose to walk in the fullness of what Christ has secured for us.
Why do we emphasise remembering Jesus’ sacrifice?
We emphasise remembrance because, as people, we can easily forget the depth of what has been done for us. When we intentionally remember Jesus’ sacrifice, it keeps our hearts tender and aligned with His will. Jesus Himself said, “Do this in remembrance of me” Luke 22:19, showing us that remembrance is not optional but essential for our spiritual walk.
As we remember, we are strengthened to resist sin and remain faithful. It becomes easier for us to walk in obedience because we are constantly aware of the price that was paid. This awareness shapes our daily decisions and draws us closer to God, helping us live lives that truly honour Him.
What example helps us understand the importance of remembrance?
We can understand remembrance by reflecting on how nations pause to honour those who gave their lives, such as on Remembrance Day in the UK. In the same way, we come together to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, not out of routine, but out of gratitude and reverence. The Bible reminds us to “remember the Lord your God” Deuteronomy 8:18, highlighting the importance of intentional reflection.
When we remember, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness and love, which strengthens our trust in Him. It anchors us in truth and prevents us from drifting spiritually. Through remembrance, we renew our commitment and keep our focus on what truly matters.
How should we respond in our attitude towards faith and worship?
We are called to approach our faith with boldness and sincerity, not holding back or feeling ashamed. The Word encourages us to worship freely, as seen in “I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth” Psalm 34:1. Our worship should reflect our gratitude and understanding of what Christ has done for us.
When we truly grasp the sacrifice of Jesus, our response shifts from passive to passionate. We no longer treat our faith casually but embrace it wholeheartedly, allowing our lives to reflect the joy and freedom we have received through Him.
What is our approach to sin and obedience?
We understand that loving Jesus means living in obedience to His commands. As it is written, “If you love me, keep my commandments” John 14:15. This calls us to turn away from sin, especially those hidden areas that can quietly weaken our walk with God.
As we choose obedience, we draw closer to God and experience His presence more deeply. We become intentional about living righteously, not out of fear, but out of love and reverence for the One who gave everything for us.
What role does gratitude play in our lives?
We learn that gratitude is a powerful posture that keeps our hearts aligned with God. Even in simple moments, we give thanks, following the example of Jesus who gave thanks before breaking bread Matthew 26:26. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what God has already done.
As we cultivate thankfulness, we grow in humility and joy. It strengthens our faith and helps us overcome challenges, reminding us that God is always working on our behalf, even in the smallest details of our lives.
Why is self-examination important for us?
We are encouraged to examine ourselves regularly, ensuring that our lives align with God’s Word. Scripture tells us, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith” 2 Corinthians 13:5. This reflection helps us stay on the right path and remain accountable in our walk.
As we take time to assess our hearts and actions, we allow God to correct and refine us. It becomes an opportunity for growth, helping us to mature spiritually and stay committed to living in obedience and truth.
How should we respond to the call of Good Friday?
We respond by making a firm decision to walk with God wholeheartedly, leaving behind our old ways. The Word reminds us, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” 2 Corinthians 5:17. This truth empowers us to embrace a transformed life.
As we move forward, we commit to living intentionally, guided by God’s Word and strengthened by His Spirit. We choose not to return to past habits but to walk in the newness of life that Christ has given us.
What does the cross represent for us?
We see the cross as the ultimate symbol of love, sacrifice, and redemption. It represents the price Jesus paid so that we could be reconciled to God. As it is written, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross” 1 Peter 2:24, reminding us of the depth of His sacrifice.
Every time we reflect on the cross, we are reminded of our identity in Christ and the victory we have through Him. It strengthens our faith and keeps us grounded in the truth of God’s love and grace.
Why is community and supporting one another important?
We recognise that our journey of faith is not meant to be walked alone. We are called to encourage and support one another, as written, “Encourage one another and build each other up” 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Community strengthens us and keeps us accountable.
As we appreciate those around us, including leaders and fellow believers, we create an environment of unity and growth. We also take responsibility to invite others and share God’s love, ensuring that more people experience the hope and transformation found in Him.