Preparing for Holy Week?
Traditionally, the Christian church has used the 40-day period of Lent from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday to prepare spiritually for Holy Week. It is a time of reflection, fasting, and prayer following in the path of Jesus. Just as each spring the earth is renewed with budding trees and plants coming up from the dark cold soil, we too need regular times of renewal. Times we can prune from our lives that which is spiritually dead, and strengthen our roots in Christ for a new season of growth and fruitfulness.
A Rhythm: Repent and Believe
This rhythm of repenting and believing is at the very heart of the good news of Christ. The story in John 11 of Jesus responding to the death of Lazarus just prior to his own death, serves as a guide for the posture we are to have in this season. We recognize the need of our present condition while at the same time affirming the hope that we have in Christ.
The Way of the Cross
One thing is clear from the scriptures, Jesus made a very deliberate decision to go to Jerusalem despite the agony and suffering he knew he would have to endure. His disciples begged him not to go back there. Yet, Jesus was driven by a passion for God’s glory and by compassion for those he loved. The guiding question was never what path would be the most comfortable, enjoyable, or absent of sorrow. When faced with hardship and challenges, Jesus instead saw opportunities to bring glory to God.
When he came to the home of Martha and Mary after their brother Lazarus had died, he too felt their grief and sadness. Jesus wept. As we journey with Jesus let us too seek the path that will lead us to the cross. Let us not be afraid to examine our own hearts and to acknowledge our need for grace and healing. It is only at the cross that we can see the true state of our souls. Let us also be open to hear the cries of those who are suffering and hurting. Let us weep for ourselves and others. Let us weep with Jesus.
Meet the Resurrected Christ
Jesus comforted Martha with his the words, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Jesus saw beyond the cross and the grave. He had faith in the power of God to defeat all his enemies, even death. He spoke words of hope into the present in view of the abundant life yet to come. This transforming power is not the natural outcome of death and decay, but instead it flows from the life of Christ himself. As we come to the cross it is not to wallow alone in our shame. Rather it is to meet the resurrected Christ and to trust in him. May you too place your hope in Christ and be renewed by his power in your life even now.
Good News Worth Sharing
As you prepare your heart for Holy Week, is there anyone God has put on your heart to invite? The message of Christ’s love for us and his resurrection power is truly good news that others need to hear and experience. When we gather before the cross on Good Friday and celebrate Christ’s resurrection power on Easter Sunday, how much more meaningful it would be if we used this season as an opportunity to share the hope of Christ with others!
You can share the posts on facebook or personally give an invitation card (available in the foyer) to invite someone else to the celebration.
