Love Wins

Reflection Date: April 03, 2026 | Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion 
Daily Readings: Isaiah 52:13—53:12; Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9; John 18:1—19:42

Children of God:
In the Philippines, one place carries a unique story about Good Friday observance.

The island of Bantayan in Cebu received a special indult from the Church more than a century ago.

A papal indult is a formal permission issued by the Pope that authorizes an act not generally permitted under Church law.

Pope Leo XII granted the concession on July 27, 1824  due to the island’s geographic isolation and dietary realities: year-round dependence on seafood, and the need for meat as an alternative during the religious observance when no fishing activity is done.

Remember: during this time, there was no refrigerator yet. This was also the time when the island was still so remote and food supplies were limited

The indult allowed the locals to consume meat during Lent and Holy Week, exempting them from fasting and abstinence practices.

The indult was later extended and remained in effect until 1843.

Today, visitors often hear about Bantayan as the only place where eating meat on Good Friday is permitted.

Yet, I personally experienced Good Friday in Bantayan, and the devotion of the faithful there remains very strong.

And locals would tell you that they don’t serve meat on the their tables anymore during Holy Week observance.

The catechesis among the people clearly teaches that the day is about remembering the sacrifice of Christ, not about taking advantage of the privilege.

In the gospel story of John, the narrative of the passion unfolded with solemn intensity.

Jesus went to the garden where soldiers came to arrest him.

He faced interrogation, rejection, and the judgment of political authorities.

The crowd demanded his crucifixion, and he carried the cross toward the place called Golgotha.

There he was crucified between two others.

At the end of the narrative, he declared, “It is finished.”

What are our inspirations for today?

First, True love remains faithful even in suffering.

The passion story revealed the depth of Jesus’ commitment to his mission.

He faced betrayal, denial, injustice, and physical pain.

Yet through all these events, Jesus remained faithful to the will of the Father.

His words and actions reflected a love that did not retreat in the face of suffering.

In our own lives, love is also tested by challenges and hardships.

The example of Jesus encourages us to remain faithful in relationships, responsibilities, and commitments even when the path becomes difficult.

Second, True devotion zooms in on the meaning behind traditions.

True devotion is not measured by external practices alone.

Faith becomes meaningful when people understand the reason behind their traditions.

Good Friday calls believers to reflect on the sacrifice of Christ and respond with gratitude and renewed commitment.

As we reflect today, we ask ourselves: Do I understand the deeper meaning of Good Friday beyond its external practices? When I face suffering or difficulty, do I remain faithful in love and trust? How can I make my faith more meaningful through reflection, prayer, and compassion for others?

Children of God:
Good Friday stands as one of the most solemn moments in the Christian calendar.

The story of Jesus’ passion reveals the depth of God’s love for humanity.

It shows how sacrifice and suffering can carry a deeper purpose.

Traditions and practices may vary across places and cultures, but the central message remains constant.

Christ gave his life out of love for the world.

This day invites us to pause and reflect on the cost of redemption.

As we stand before the cross, we remember that love proved stronger than suffering.