A Good Friday We’ll Never Forget

This past Good Friday at Home of Jesus the King Church was truly something special—one of those days that leaves a deep mark on your heart. It wasn’t just another service.

It was real, raw, and full of God’s presence.

We didn’t just gather as a church family—we opened the doors wide to anyone and everyone, including those who don’t yet believe. We invited them in, just as they are, to come and see, to hear, to feel the love of Jesus. And it was amazing to see people walk in with open hearts, some not even sure what to expect, but ready to experience something meaningful.

The focus the whole time was on Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. We spent a good chunk of the service just worshiping, letting the songs carry our prayers and praise. The atmosphere was heavy—in the best way. You could feel God moving.

We took time to meditate on Jesus’ final words from the cross—words that still speak to us today:

“Father, forgive them…”
“Today you will be with Me in paradise…”
“This is your son… this is your mother…”
“My God, why have You forsaken Me?”
“I’m thirsty…”
“It is finished.”
“Into Your hands I commend My spirit.”

Each one of those hit differently. They weren’t just part of the Easter story—they were personal. They reminded us of just how deep His love goes, and how much He gave for us.

Then Pastor Saleem shared a powerful, heartfelt message that really brought everything into focus. He broke down why Jesus was wounded the way He was:

  • His hands, because of the wrong things we’ve done with our hands.
  • His feet, because of the sinful paths we’ve walked.
  • His head, because of the thoughts that run through our minds.
  • His side, to prove He really died, and when blood and water flowed separately, it fulfilled prophecy and showed just how complete His sacrifice was.

It was one of those messages that really hits you in the gut—in a good way. You could see it on people’s faces… they were taking it all in, and it was touching something deep inside.

And then we did something powerful—we each carried a wooden cross through the sanctuary, just like Jesus said in Luke 9:23“Take up your cross daily and follow Me.”. It wasn’t just symbolic. It was real. A reminder that following Jesus is about more than just Sunday mornings—it’s about giving Him our whole lives.

But the most beautiful moment?
When a whole family gave their lives to Jesus.

They came in as guests, not really knowing what to expect. But during the worship and the message, something shifted. They saw what Jesus went through, and it hit them—they realized it was all for them. Tears started flowing, and by the end of the service, they surrendered their hearts to Jesus. All of them. It was so powerful. That’s why we do what we do. That’s the Gospel. That’s love.

We’re still blown away by how God moved. So many hearts were touched. So many seeds were planted. And we’re believing this is just the beginning of what God wants to do in our community.

Thank You, Jesus, for the cross.
Thank You for never giving up on us.
And thank You for still changing lives—one heart at a time.