I think Good Friday is misnamed. How could the day that the Lord Jesus died have been called anything but horrible, heart-breaking, anguished? An explanation is that it was once called “God’s Friday” but through translation, was interpreted as Good Friday. We might think of it as good because, even though it was the day the Lord was crucified, it was also the day He made eternal life possible for us. Then, there is the German word, Karfreitag, meaning, as far as I can tell, sorrowful or suffering Friday. Whatever it is called, it is a day for us to soberly consider that the result of sin is so awful the God of the universe gave His life so that we who believe and repent can live forever with Him in Heaven.
Last night, I went to the Good Friday service with Matt, Dawn, Sara and Nathan at their church. 
Being in a group of believers with my family around me is a blessing like no other. The sincerity and love in that gathering was a warmth to be remembered.
Tumult and inhumanity abound in the world but because of Good Friday, there is also hope. I like to remember the words of Pope John Paul II: Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.
Yes, I am always a bit sad at this time of year. Jesus suffered such a cruel and horrible death – and to die for each one of us. Such a sacrifice. Words really can’t even describe it and I don’t think we fully can understand the depth of it.
You’re right, Sharon. We can’t fully understand God’s sacrifice for us. But, you know, on Easter, the sadness is lifted and it’s like a great light is shining.
A beautiful and enlightening tribute, Blanche. I have made a note of Pope John’s words.