Take a moment to consider the greatest sacrifice you have ever made. Maybe it was for someone you loved. Or maybe it was for your job, or for an opportunity to increase your bank account. Whatever the reason for your sacrifice, it was probably one of the hardest things you have ever done. Somehow you found the courage, the strength, and the motivation. You did it. You felt good about it. It paid off.



Jesus made a sacrifice, too. It had nothing to do with his job or his bank account. It had everything to do with you. It is that simple. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for you. He didn’t just give up a day off from work to play with the children. He didn’t do without some luxury item so that he could purchase a new refrigerator for an elderly relative. Jesus sacrificed his life for yours. His motivation was pure love poured out on a cross. He found his courage and strength in the Father’s love for him. With his life he bought everlasting life for you. Good Friday recalls Jesus Christ’s unconditional love for you, which brought him willingly to the cross. It is that simple.

Family Activity

	This activity enhances the experience of Holy Week and familiarity with Easter symbols.

	•		Review the various Easter symbols of the Church. Provide family members with hard-boiled eggs and markers. Have them decorate their eggs with words and symbols that tell about Jesus’ Resurrection.
	•		Display the children’s eggs until Easter.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.