Scripture: Mark 15:39 (NIV) – “And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, ‘Surely this man was the Son of God!'”
Devotion:
As we reflect on the events of Good Friday, Mark 15:39 presents us with a profound moment of revelation. In the midst of the darkness and agony surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion, a Roman centurion, a symbol of authority and power, utters a declaration that resonates throughout history: “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
Consider the scene: Jesus hangs on the cross, his body battered and broken, his life slipping away. The sky grows dark, and the earth trembles. In the midst of this chaos, the centurion, who had likely witnessed countless executions, is moved to proclaim the divine identity of Jesus.
What led the centurion to make this declaration? Surely it was more than just the manner of Jesus’ death, though that would have been extraordinary enough. Perhaps it was the way Jesus endured suffering with grace and dignity, forgiving those who had betrayed and crucified him. Perhaps it was the love and compassion he showed even in his final moments, reaching out to a criminal dying beside him and promising him paradise.
Whatever the reason, the centurion’s declaration serves as a powerful reminder of the truth of Jesus’ identity. In Jesus, the Son of God, we see God’s love and redemption made manifest. Through his sacrifice on the cross, Jesus reconciles humanity to God, offering forgiveness and salvation to all who believe in him.
On this Good Friday, may we echo the centurion’s words and declare with conviction, “Surely this man was the Son of God!” May we recognize Jesus for who he truly is – our Savior, our Redeemer, and the one who brings hope and healing to a broken world.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, on this Good Friday, we are reminded of the profound truth of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God. Thank you for sending him to be our Savior and Redeemer. Help us to recognize Jesus for who he truly is and to respond with faith and gratitude to his sacrificial love. May we, like the centurion, proclaim Jesus’ divine identity with conviction and awe. In his name, we pray. Amen.
