In the Good Friday 2024 sermon "The Ninth Hour", Pastor Mike McKinney dissects the final hours of Jesus' life suggestive of the unanticipated challenges faced by people today. Drawing from Matthew's account of the crucifixion, Pastor Mike explains the disturbing darkness that fell upon the land during Jesus' last hours, symbolizing God's dismay. He further extrapolates Jesus's anguish at feeling forsaken despite understanding the criticality of his sacrifice. Pastor Mike compares these moments to modern-day struggles, labeling them as the "ninth hour", where knowledge and emotional torment contradict, leading to doubt and uncertainty. However, what is reassuringly highlighted is Jesus' understanding and empathy during such trials, articulated in Jude 1:22. Expanding further on the concept of the "ninth hour", Pastor Mike teaches that Jesus' sacrificial ordeal guarantees us compassion in our struggles, as well as assures us of God's love. He explains that even though hardships may appear to be God's wrath, they are enigmatic manifestations of grace that serve to strengthen our bond with God. Moreover, Jesus' crucifixion serves as evidence of his willingness to endure our warranted punishment for sins, ensuring that we are not forsaken. Therefore, in moments of doubt or hardship, believers can remain hopeful and assured by His sacrifice. In his closing remarks, Pastor Mike urges those yet to have faith in Jesus, highlighting His infinite sacrifice as key to avoiding God's wrath. Through faith in Jesus, believers gain access to the boundless wealth of God's grace and eternal kindness, offering the perfect shield against life's trials and tribulations.