Life and death stand side by side as we enter into Good Friday. In John's passion account, Jesus reveals he power and glory of God, even as He is put on trial and sentenced to death. Standing with the disciples at the foot of the cross, we pray for the whole world in ancient bidding prayer, as Christ's death offers life to all. We gather in solemn devotion, but always with the promise that the tree around which we assemble is indeed a tree of life.