‘It Is Finished’: Reflections on Good Friday

Good Friday is one of the most solemn and significant days in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ on the cross at Calvary — an event seen as the ultimate act of love and sacrifice for the redemption of mankind.

Observed during Holy Week on the Friday before Easter Sunday, it is a time of deep reflection, mourning, and reverence, as Christians remember the suffering Christ endured to bring salvation to the world.

As Christians around the world solemnly mark Good Friday, a day steeped in suffering and sacrifice, many in Nigeria reflect not just on its biblical significance but on its relevance in a nation in need of urgent healing, unity, and hope.

“Good Friday is the crux of everything,” says Ogor Justina, a practicing lawyer and passionate believer.

“The day marks the beginning of salvation for everybody. Without the cross, there would be no resurrection, and without the sacrifice, there would be no redemption,” she affirms.

In a world often torn by strife and a country still navigating its numerous challenges, the message of Good Friday offers a call to compassion, faith, and collective reflection.

“Why is it Good?” – Understanding the Paradox

Reverend Father Benedict Udemba, Priest of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, speaks to the core of the day’s title, “We could have called it Bad Friday, because Jesus died,” he reflects. “But it’s called Good Friday because Christ died to pay for our sins. It is the ultimate expression of love — one man dying for all so that we may live.”

The Priest emphasizes the theological roots of the day — the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy and the “scandal of the cross.” Yet, he sees it as a spiritual triumph:

“None of us could make heaven without that sacrifice. But those who share in His life and passion will surely gain eternal life,” Father Benedict says.

Atoning Lamb – A Message from the Cross

Reverend Nicodemus Ozumba, a national leader in the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Resident Pastor, Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, Garki Parish, Abuja, underscores the historical and spiritual weight of Christ’s crucifixion.

“In the Old Testament, people had to offer animals for atonement. But Jesus became that one perfect sacrifice,” he explains. “By that one death, salvation was made available for all — past, present, and future.”

His reflections deepen with a resounding truth: “It is finished.”

“That one death is enough. There’s no need for another. His sacrifice covers even generations yet unborn,” he says.

Hope in a Time of Hardship – A Word to Nigeria

Despite the weight of the season, the leaders and believers emphasize that Good Friday is not a funeral but a celebration of hope.

Pastor Funke Kasali, Lead Pastor of the Foundation of Truth Assembly in Abuja, notes that, “Jesus’ death was not just to free believers from sin but from every form of bondage — poverty, addiction, injustice.”

Her call to action goes beyond religious circles: “Let’s give. Let’s show love. A meal, a kind word, a helping hand — that’s what Easter is about. Jesus gave everything, and we are called to do the same.”

Outreaches that Bring Good Friday to Life

Beyond sermons and prayers, many churches are putting faith into tangible action during this sacred season.

From hospital visits to orphanage support, Reverend Nicodemus Ozumba shares how his congregation has embraced outreach, even helping to release prisoners in 2019.

This year, they plan to go evangelizing at the Taka-lafia community in Abuja— an embodiment of what the season represents: restoration, rebirth, and reaching the unreached.

Meanwhile, Pastor Funke Kasali’s church is also preparing for a medical outreach, offering free health screenings, consultations, and medication to the local community.

“Last year, five people discovered they had Hepatitis B through our tests,” she recalls. “Easter is about making a difference.”

The Cross Still Speaks

Across denominations and titles — from priests to pastors, lawyers to laypeople — one truth resounds this Good Friday: Love paid the ultimate price.

As Nigeria gathers in churches, communities, and quiet reflection, this day is more than a date on a calendar. It is a call to remember, a call to believe, and a call to act.

Because over 2,000 years ago, a man stretched his arms on a cross and said, “It is finished,” on a Good Friday, and that was only the beginning.

FRCN