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Why is Good Friday “Good”? 

By: Alex Shipley on | Comments: 0

Good Friday is a day of remembrance and reflection for Christians around the world. It is the day on which Jesus Christ was crucified, and it is a significant event in Christian theology. Despite the somber nature of the day, it is known as "Good Friday." This may seem strange, as the events that occurred on that day were anything but good. However, there are several reasons why Good Friday can truly be considered "good."

First and foremost, Good Friday is good because it represents the ultimate sacrifice. We as Christians believe Jesus Christ died the death we deserved on the cross. He willingly gave up his life so that others could be forgiven and have eternal life with him. While he did die a gruesome death, without it we would have no hope, so his death is good for us. This act of selflessness and love is considered the ultimate expression of God's grace and mercy.

Secondly, Good Friday is good because it represents victory over death. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ was not the end of the story. Praise God! Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, which we celebrate as Easter Sunday. This resurrection is the ultimate symbol of hope and triumph over death. Without his resurrection, his death would have been meaningless and God would not have kept his promise to us. But Christ did what no one else could do - rise again after becoming the ultimate sacrifice that would finally satisfy God’s justice. That’s why Jesus shouted “It is finished!” as he breathed his last breath on the cross. 

Finally, Good Friday is good because it reminds us of the depth of God's love. We may think - how can God sending his son to die a painful death on the cross be good? The events of Good Friday demonstrate the extent to which God was willing to go to save humanity. It shows that God's love is not conditional, but is freely given to all who seek it. Because of Jesus’ death, the gift of salvation is extended to each and every one of us who chooses to believe and trust in Him. We could not earn this on our own, but Christ paid that price for us. What a gift! 
Today, we at GiveSendGo ask you to join us in reflecting on Good Friday as we bend our knees in prayer to the one who paid it all for us on the cross!
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Palm Sunday: Celebrating the Triumphal Entry of Jesus

By: Alex Shipley on | Comments: 0

As a society, we're accustomed to seeing the glitz and glamour of celebrities walking the red carpet, adorned in often outrageous designer outfits, to receive recognition and applause from their peers, professionals, and fans worldwide. But the true story of Palm Sunday tells of a different kind of "red carpet" moment for Jesus. Though he was a king, he arrived not in regal robes but as a humble servant, riding on a donkey. The same crowds who joyously welcomed him into Jerusalem soon turned against him, and he would ultimately give his life for us on the cross (which was God’s plan all along). Despite this, Palm Sunday remains a vital celebration and reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus and the importance of humility and service in our lives.

Palm Sunday commemorates the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, which is recorded in the four Gospels of the New Testament. This event marks the beginning of Holy Week, which ends with Easter Sunday - the day of Jesus' resurrection.

The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem is significant because it fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah, who had prophesied about a coming king who would enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). The people of Jerusalem saw Jesus' entry as the fulfillment of this prophecy and laid down palm branches and their cloaks on the ground to honor him, shouting "Hosanna!" which means "Save us, we pray!".Today, Palm Sunday is celebrated in churches around the world with the waving of palm branches or other branches, such as olive branches or willow branches, and the reading of the Gospel accounts of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

At GiveSendGo, we believe that Palm Sunday is a reminder of the importance of humility and faith in our lives. Despite being hailed as a king, Jesus came to serve and not to be served. He humbly rode on a donkey and did not demand glory or recognition. Instead, he sought to fulfill God's plan for salvation by giving his life in our place. As we celebrate Palm Sunday, we are reminded of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us, which bought us our freedom, and the importance of spreading love, peace, and hope in our communities. This Palm Sunday, let us reflect on the significance of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and praise Jesus as our King and Savior!
 
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How Can You Help With Earthquake Relief?

By: GiveSendGo on | Comments: 0

When disaster strikes… such as a deadly earthquake, how can you help? You might feel like there’s no way someone like you can make an impact. I mean, look at the facts, the earthquake that affected Turkey and Syria happened thousands of miles away this past week,, in a place where you probably know no one! If you’re the type of person who’s ready to defy all odds for the sake of helping people in need, read on! 
First thing you can do for people affected by the earthquake is PRAY for them. A few specific things you can pray for are to ask for quick healing over the sick and wounded. Remember God’s heart for the people He’s mourning and mourn with Him. Ask for provision of needs for the earthquake victims, especially that people will have water and food. Ask for more faith and truth in God and proclaim that you trust in Him! “Jesus we TRUST you and know that you are moving!” He always has and will continue to keep His promises. This devastating event isn't too big for Him. There are many other things to pray for. Comment on this blog about what you are praying for so we can pray with you!
Secondly, you can give! Do you know someone with a GiveSendGo campaign you can give to? If not, do a quick search on our site and you’ll find several campaigns already started on our site for the people of Turkey and Syria. 
In fact, GiveSendGo Charities has already started a campaign for earthquake relief that you can pray for and give to - https://www.givesendgo.com/EarthquakeHelp. 
Using the money you donate, they’ll send resources to organizations on site in the country actively making an impact to see families and communities recover AND all donations are considered tax-deductible. 
Our charity branch is constantly on the lookout for causes they can raise money for or support. Their Send Network - a network of trusted, verified people they’ve already built relationships with - receives the funds and distributes the resources from your donations to the exact specifications of what the campaign says the money will be used for! 
GiveSendGo’s goal is to have a safe and reliable platform where people can have their material and spiritual needs met. People can give to causes they trust and care about and raise money for what they believe in. 
You can learn more about GiveSendGo Charities at www.GiveSendGo.org. 
Thirdly, if you DO know someone in Turkey or Syria you can start a campaign on GiveSendGo to support them or others who have been affected. Our platform is free to use and because of our lower payment processing fee, you’re able to use and do more with the money you raise. 
Remember, it takes one person to make a difference in this world! Will it be you? 
 
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