Have you ever wondered why this day is called Good Friday? Let’s find out from today’s devotion.

Nang masipsip na ni Jesus ang alak, sinabi Niya, “Naganap na!” Iniyuko niya ang kanyang ulo at nalagot ang kanyang hininga.

Juan 19:30

Narinig mo na ba ang Greek word na “Tetelestai!”? Ang ibig sabihin nito sa Filipino ay “Naganap na!” or sa English, “It is finished!” This is the mightiest declaration of victory from the greatest man in history that will reverberate throughout all eternity. Ikinagulat ng lahat nang isigaw ni Jesus ang salitang ito dahil sa kanilang kultura at tradisyon, napakahalaga nito.

Years ago, archeologist digging in Egypt uncovered an ancient “CPA” office. Inside, they discovered a stack of bills with the inscription “Tetelestai” across the bill. Itinatatak ang salitang ito bilang katibayan na ang isang tao ay nakapagbayad na nang buo sa kanyang mga pagkakautang. Nang isigaw ito ni Jesus, binayaran na Niya ang ating mga kasalanan. 

In ancient Roman culture, if a citizen was convicted of a crime, a “Certificate of Debt” listing all his crimes would be posted to his cell door. After he had served his sentence, the judge would sign the indictment and write “Tetelestai.” ito ay patunay na ang isang bilanggo ay ganap nang malaya. When Jesus shouted this word, He freed us from the power of darkness, sin, hell, death, and grave.

The priest offering sacrifices to the altar would inspect the animals if it was faultless and free of any defects. If so, he would then say, “Tetelestai,” signifying that the offering was acceptable and perfect. Jesus alone was qualified to meet these stringent requirements of the law. Naging katanggap-tangap sa Ama ang pag-aalay ni Jesus because He was blameless, spotless, and sinless.

“Tetelestai” forever changed the destiny of mankind; salvation is secured, sin is atoned, and death is defeated.

This day is Good Friday because Jesus did a good thing: He redeemed us from sin by sacrificing Himself on the cross. He paid the penalty for our sins–once and for all and forever! But hold on, may natitira pa tayong dalawang araw to reflect on the significance of  Holy Week. So see you tomorrow!