By Les WarrinerContributor
Good Friday is good not because the Son of God was executed on this day some 2000 years ago, but because of what his death accomplished – satisfying the righteous demands of God for the sins of the world.
It is our joy to celebrate Christ’s death because it wasn’t in vain and we know that he didn’t stay dead. He rose triumphant and victorious over death and the grave on the third day.
As in other years, there will be interchurch Good Friday celebrations all across our city. Many local churches will be partnering together to hold services in five locations: the Christian Reformed Church, the Maple Ridge Alliance Church, the Burnett Fellowship Baptist Church, the Maple Ridge Baptist Church and Christian Life Assembly.
Services at each location begin at 10 a.m.
The general theme is “Meet Me at the Cross,” and the specific theme for this year is “For Us.”
Jesus Christ sacrificed everything for us; for you, for me, for everyone.
Much prayer and planning has gone into this year’s Good Friday inter-church services because pastoral leaders in this community believe that God desires that his name be lifted up as he draws all people to himself.
I have been an active part of the Ridge Meadows ministerial for many years and I am grateful for the camaraderie, support and accountability that exists between pastors and ministry leaders in our community. Ministry leadership can be lonely and isolating. The relationship and friendships that have been developed have served to strengthen and encourage me personally and professionally.
Our unified goal and purpose is clear as we “stand firm in one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.” It’s not about competition; it’s about advancing God’s kingdom purposes. The gospel is good news and we desire that everyone hears about it, believes and becomes transformed by the Spirit of God.
Advancing God’s kingdom is a significant task that requires many working and praying together. Many church pastors get together weekly to pray and intercede for revival and spiritual awakening here. The combined population of our two communities is about 100,000. Maybe five per cent of that total darken the door of a church on any given Sunday.
We are believing God for a change, and an upgrade in that percentage would illustrate a new spiritual reality – specifically an awakening to repentance for sins and a desire to follow God and serve him only.
Jesus said: “Seek first the kingdom of God and if you do, he will take care of everything else that you need in life while also guaranteeing you eternal life.”
Les Warriner is the pastor of Living Way Foursquare Church.