Mark 15:25–38, April 18, 2025 (Friday)

Mark 15:31In the same way, the chief priests and the teachers of the law mocked him among themselves. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself!”

Today is Good Friday—a day of deep solemnity and remembrance of Jesus’ cross, just before Easter. Many choose to set this day apart in a special way—with personal resolutions, fasting, or silent reflection.

This solemn memory of the cross is soon transformed into the joy and celebration of the resurrection. Our confession, “The Lord has overcome the power of death!” gains even greater meaning through the resurrection, which turns the cross into a symbol of salvation, sacrifice, and love.

That’s why I’d like to encourage you to let Good Friday be a time of deep reflection and intentional decision-making. But let us also remember: this solemnity is not eternal. It is, in fact, the most fitting time to prepare for the joy of resurrection. Just as the sun rises after the darkest night, new hope is born where suffering seems to reach its end.

Ramadan is a fasting period observed by Muslims. Because it follows a fixed daily schedule, it is often known for overindulgence once the fast is broken. Though there is a form of piety, it may not always seem appealing—perhaps because actions are present, but sincerity may not be felt.

Jesus loved celebrations, and He loved sharing meals. His opponents even mocked Him for being “a glutton and a drunkard,” but He never hesitated to eat, drink, and be in community wherever He went. Likewise, the faith community—the church—should not shy away from celebration. Every Sunday worship is a feast, and the fellowship meals we share after worship are part of that celebration. Some may criticize us for focusing too much on food, but food is something worth investing in.

These days in the U.S., “Dinner Church” has become a trend. Because young people are less likely to attend traditional services, some churches have transformed their sanctuaries into dinner party spaces—worshipping together over shared meals. It may seem like an extreme response to the challenges churches face, but truly, nothing draws us together quite like the table.

Some say, “Pastor, you must really like food,” but what I love even more is sharing the table.

So today, as you spend Good Friday with your own spiritual commitments, I hope you’ll do so with the mindset that this is preparation for the heavenly feast. The event of the cross revealed the true nature of the Jesus-community, and shaped its identity. Though grief lasted only three days, through the resurrection, the community was transformed. Let us remember: we, too, are continually walking this journey together.

Reflection

Why is the cross something we can boast in?

Intercessory Prayer

1. Deacon Kang Kyung-sook’s husband, Brother Moon Chang-ho, has successfully completed surgery. Thank you for your prayers—please continue to pray for a smooth and full recovery.

2. Church Directory UpdateWe are currently updating our church membership directory. For now, we are sharing a Google Form link, and on Sunday, we’ll also distribute paper forms for those who prefer to fill it out by hand.https://forms.gle/TxF3B3uEcqwgSR3NA