When you think about it, Good Friday wasn't that "good" for Jesus. As he suffered an excruciating death, only Barabbas and the soldiers who won his clothing came out ahead. Since we know how the story ends on Sunday, we sometimes downplay the sadness, agony and confusion that is wrapped up in this day. After being scourged and carrying the cross, for Jesus to ensure three hours of crucifixion, ranks him as one of the toughest men in history.
Lest we forget the words of the Creed, "for us and our salvation," today is also "good" for us. God became man, suffered and died to undo the sin that a man had committed. Although today is sad, it is not without hope for us...and for our salvation.
Even though we are unable to celebrate Good Friday publically, it
is still a day of
Fast and Abstinence.