Stardate 04.03.2026
Some people wonder why it’s called Good Friday.
They see the suffering. The betrayal. The cross. And they struggle to connect that to anything good.
But what Jesus did on this day over 2,000 years ago stands as the ultimate act of love. Through His suffering came the opening of a door that none of us could open on our own. What looked like loss became the pathway to life.
That’s why it’s good.
Last night, I listened closely as my pastor led the Holy Thursday service. The theme was simple: service. Just as Jesus washed the feet of His followers, we are called to serve others with the same humility and love.
That message stayed with me.
Because I’ve been watching something quietly come full circle in my own life.
About a year ago, I met the person who oversees the Children’s Miracle Network connection at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. At the time, it felt like a simple conversation — a seed planted for something that might happen someday.
Now, that “someday” is beginning to take shape.
I’m preparing to introduce a coloring book created specifically for patients at the hospital. A small offering meant to bring comfort and distraction during difficult days.
A few weeks ago, my pastor mentioned that part of his calling is visiting these same patients, representing Jesus in their rooms. And as it turns out, my original contact is connected to this same circle of chaplains and caregivers.
Even more surprising, the very group that gathers funds to support this work is now helping spread the word about the coloring book.
And I wasn’t even in the room when these connections came together.
Others were speaking. Doors were opening. Threads were weaving.
I’m simply watching it happen.
On Good Friday, I’m reminded that sometimes God is working behind the scenes long before we understand the pattern. What once looked like separate conversations, separate ideas, separate people are revealing themselves to have been connected all along.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” — Romans 8:28
Just as Jesus opened the door to Heaven through His sacrifice, I’m watching doors open here on earth through quiet acts of service and faithfulness.
I’m thankful for Good Friday.
I’m thankful for momentum in this mission.
And I’m thankful to be walking this journey one step at a time.
Join me here:
https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong
Captain’s Addendum
Spock: “Captain, it appears the connections were established long before you perceived them.”
Bones: “Funny how the pieces come together when you weren’t even looking.”
I’m learning that God often builds the path ahead of us while we’re simply taking the next faithful step. And for that, I’m deeply grateful today.
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