“Once you have been to the cross, you will never be the same.” 

Reverend Billy Graham

What moment in your life has taken you to the cross?

3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love….”
Romans 5:3-11

While there are many hymns and spirituals that tell the story of Good Friday, none are more grounded and moving than “Were you There?” A spiritual that was likely written by an enslaved African-American. At our church, the Maundy Thursday service for many years ended with the soprano, Camellia Johnson singing “Were you There” in darkness except for one candle burning.

I could not help but be brought to the cross and reminded of the most difficult moments in my life, but comforted by this spiritual and reminded of the hope that the story of Jesus Christ brought to this world.

Mercy, peace, and love be with you this Good Friday.

Shared by Marcie Doll