On Good Friday, after an exhausting eighteen-hour period of ministry shepherding the flock at All Nations, I found myself physically drained and spiritually stretched. I had planned to accomplish several tasks, but both my mind and body could not cooperate. Instead, I chose to rest—to simply be part of the flock.
That afternoon, my wife and I made a meaningful journey to the iconic Cross in Groom, Texas—recognized as the largest cross in the Western Hemisphere. What followed became a deeply moving spiritual encounter that embodied the true meaning of Easter.
A Moving Encounter at the Stations of the Cross
Upon arrival, we found a Catholic priest leading a congregation through the Stations of the Cross. We quietly joined the group, walking in reflection and reverence.
One moment stood out profoundly—the depiction of Jesus Christ falling three times while carrying the cross. The priest emphasized that Christ did not symbolically fall; He was completely exhausted. This powerful truth resonated deeply: in life, when we carry our own crosses and fall—especially the third time—we often need help from others to rise again.
This message speaks directly to the Christian journey, reminding believers that faith is not a solitary walk but one sustained through community, compassion, and shared strength.
Symbol of Victory: Archangel Michael and the Dragon
After completing the Stations of the Cross, we visited the striking statue of Archangel Michael defeating the dragon. The image of divine power overcoming evil filled us with reassurance, strength, and a renewed sense of spiritual security.
It was a vivid reminder that, despite life’s battles, victory belongs to God.
A Divine Surprise: Experiencing God’s Provision
Following this spiritual nourishment, we went to a nearby restaurant for a meal. After eating, we waited for our bill—but it never came.
When we asked the waitress, she surprised us with unexpected news:
“Someone has already paid for your meal.”
We were overwhelmed. The people who paid had already left, leaving us unable to thank them personally.
In that moment, we recognized it as more than coincidence—it was a divine gesture. We had been fed both spiritually at the Cross and physically through the kindness of strangers. It was, without doubt, a “Surprise of the Risen Lord.”
Lessons from the Easter Community
This experience revealed three powerful truths about the Easter community and Christian living:
1. The Easter Community is Nourished by the Good Shepherd
After His resurrection, Jesus continued to demonstrate His role as the Good Shepherd by feeding His followers. From the miraculous catch of 153 fish to preparing breakfast for His disciples, Christ showed that He provides both physically and spiritually.
As written in John 10:27-29, He assures believers of eternal life, protection, and security—no one can snatch them from His hand.
2. The Easter Community is Transformed and Inclusive
The resurrection brought transformation—not only spiritually but socially. When Peter visited the house of a Gentile, he declared that no one should be considered impure or unclean.
The Easter message breaks barriers. It embraces people of all races, nationalities, and backgrounds, forming a truly inclusive global community of believers.
3. The Easter Community Spreads Peace and Good News
An Easter-centered life is grounded in peace, truth, and righteousness. It rejects gossip, negativity, and division.
Instead, believers are called to focus on what is true, noble, pure, and praiseworthy—living out the teachings of Philippians 4:4-9. Through prayer, gratitude, and faith, they experience a peace that surpasses all understanding.
Easter Reflection: The Three Keys to a Fulfilled Life
From this Good Friday and Easter experience, three guiding principles emerge:
- Forgiveness
- Giving
- Thanksgiving
These values form the foundation of a vibrant Easter community.
As the Psalmist declares in Psalm 103:
“Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”
Conclusion
The journey to the Groom Cross became more than a Good Friday visit—it was a divine encounter filled with reflection, revelation, and unexpected blessings.
From the humility of Christ’s suffering to the kindness of strangers, the message is clear:
God continues to feed, guide, and surprise His people in profound ways.
By Patriarch John Githiga | Amarillo, Texas
