Today is the Christian holiday called “Good Friday.” It’s a celebration of and remembrance of the crucifixion of Christ.

The name of the holiday causes confusion for some. On the surface, it is easy to ask: What’s so good about a crucifixion?

The Jews and Romans certainly didn’t intend for it to be good. Crucifixion was designed by the Romans to be as shameful and painful as possible. Jesus of Nazareth was crucified by the Romans as an enemy of the state.

Jesus was handed over to be crucified by His own people. They accused Him of being a blasphemer. They wanted Him to die a shameful death under the curse of God.

On the surface, there seems to be nothing worthy of celebration or remembrance. Nothing good. That’s why we need to look beneath the surface.
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