Holiest of Weeks
OK - here we go... Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian calendar. This week begins with Palm Sunday (last weeks blog), and ends on Easter Sunday, celebrating Jesus' victory over sin and death.
Throughout Holy Week, I want to reflect on each day by adding more to this blog post. I want to give you some details of what was going on in the city and with Jesus and the disciples. From Jesus cleansing the temple, to His betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection, every moment reveals God’s grace and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Hold on - it will be an adventure!
New here? Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, Click Bible icon at the Bottom, then click Plan. After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Throughout Holy Week, I want to reflect on each day by adding more to this blog post. I want to give you some details of what was going on in the city and with Jesus and the disciples. From Jesus cleansing the temple, to His betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection, every moment reveals God’s grace and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Hold on - it will be an adventure!
New here? Read the scripture first in the CMC App. To get there, Click Bible icon at the Bottom, then click Plan. After reading the NT and OT verses for the day, come back here for discussion.
Monday – Jesus Cleanses the Temple
Key Scripture: Luke 19:45-46
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 56:7
I hope the Sunday Sermon or even the Bulletin yesterday gave you some context for geography and political tension. Today is now Monday of Holy Week.
The city will be packed with people. Passover is a few days away, and Jewish pilgrims from all over the Roman Empire have come to the city to celebrate. Jerusalem is buzzing with life—streets are crowded, families are reconnecting, and the temple is at the center of it all.
The temple wasn’t just a building; it was THE place for worship, sacrifice, and connection with God. It was enormous— imagine 35 acres of courtyards, colonnades, and holy spaces. Herod the Great had expanded and beautified it. The Temple was one of the most magnificent structures in the ancient world. But by Jesus’ time, something had gone terribly wrong.
Instead of being a “house of prayer,” the temple had become a marketplace. Here’s how it worked: pilgrims would come to the temple to offer sacrifices, but many couldn’t bring animals with them on the long journey. So, merchants set up shop in the temple courts, selling animals for sacrifice—at inflated prices, of course. And if you wanted to pay the temple tax, you had to use temple currency, which meant exchanging your coins for a hefty fee. It was a racket, and the religious leaders were in on it.
Jesus walks into this chaos, He knows what he will find but I’m sure His heart breaks. This was supposed to be a sacred space, but greed and corruption had taken over. So, what does He do? He flips tables.
“It is written,” He says, “‘My house will be a house of prayer’; but you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’” (Luke 19:46)
It’s a bold move, and it sends a message: worship is not for sale. Jesus isn’t just flipping tables—He’s flipping the entire system. He’s calling out hypocrisy, greed, and the way people had turned something holy into something hollow.
But remember those nervous Sanhedrin leaders and Pharisees. They can’t have any ruckus with Pilate now in town. So they have to figure out a way to get rid of Jesus once and for all!
A Little History Lesson
By the way, this wasn’t the first time the temple needed cleansing. Hundreds of years earlier, the prophet Isaiah had warned about this kind of corruption. That’s why Jesus quotes Isaiah 56:7: “For my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”
The temple was supposed to be a beacon of hope for ALL people, not just a select few. Its very location—the top of Mount Moriah—was meant to remind people of God’s faithfulness, stretching back to Abraham and Isaac. But instead of being a place where people encountered God, it had become just another place where the rich exploited the poor.
Reflection
So, let’s bring it home for today. If Jesus came into your house what would He find? I mean, what tables might Jesus want to flip in your life?
Maybe it’s the table of busyness, where you’ve let your schedule crowd out your time with Him.
Maybe it’s the table of pride, where you’ve been trying to control everything instead of surrendering it to God.
Whatever it is, don’t be afraid to let Him clean house.
Because here’s the good news: when Jesus cleanses the temple, it’s not about punishment—it’s about restoration. He’s making space for something better.
Key Scripture: Luke 19:45-46
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 56:7
I hope the Sunday Sermon or even the Bulletin yesterday gave you some context for geography and political tension. Today is now Monday of Holy Week.
The city will be packed with people. Passover is a few days away, and Jewish pilgrims from all over the Roman Empire have come to the city to celebrate. Jerusalem is buzzing with life—streets are crowded, families are reconnecting, and the temple is at the center of it all.
The temple wasn’t just a building; it was THE place for worship, sacrifice, and connection with God. It was enormous— imagine 35 acres of courtyards, colonnades, and holy spaces. Herod the Great had expanded and beautified it. The Temple was one of the most magnificent structures in the ancient world. But by Jesus’ time, something had gone terribly wrong.
Instead of being a “house of prayer,” the temple had become a marketplace. Here’s how it worked: pilgrims would come to the temple to offer sacrifices, but many couldn’t bring animals with them on the long journey. So, merchants set up shop in the temple courts, selling animals for sacrifice—at inflated prices, of course. And if you wanted to pay the temple tax, you had to use temple currency, which meant exchanging your coins for a hefty fee. It was a racket, and the religious leaders were in on it.
Jesus walks into this chaos, He knows what he will find but I’m sure His heart breaks. This was supposed to be a sacred space, but greed and corruption had taken over. So, what does He do? He flips tables.
“It is written,” He says, “‘My house will be a house of prayer’; but you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’” (Luke 19:46)
It’s a bold move, and it sends a message: worship is not for sale. Jesus isn’t just flipping tables—He’s flipping the entire system. He’s calling out hypocrisy, greed, and the way people had turned something holy into something hollow.
But remember those nervous Sanhedrin leaders and Pharisees. They can’t have any ruckus with Pilate now in town. So they have to figure out a way to get rid of Jesus once and for all!
A Little History Lesson
By the way, this wasn’t the first time the temple needed cleansing. Hundreds of years earlier, the prophet Isaiah had warned about this kind of corruption. That’s why Jesus quotes Isaiah 56:7: “For my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”
The temple was supposed to be a beacon of hope for ALL people, not just a select few. Its very location—the top of Mount Moriah—was meant to remind people of God’s faithfulness, stretching back to Abraham and Isaac. But instead of being a place where people encountered God, it had become just another place where the rich exploited the poor.
Reflection
So, let’s bring it home for today. If Jesus came into your house what would He find? I mean, what tables might Jesus want to flip in your life?
Maybe it’s the table of busyness, where you’ve let your schedule crowd out your time with Him.
Maybe it’s the table of pride, where you’ve been trying to control everything instead of surrendering it to God.
Whatever it is, don’t be afraid to let Him clean house.
Because here’s the good news: when Jesus cleanses the temple, it’s not about punishment—it’s about restoration. He’s making space for something better.
Tuesday – Jesus Confronts the Critics
Key Scripture: Luke 20:1-8
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 118:22-23
OK, it’s Tuesday of Holy Week, and Jerusalem is still buzzing. Pilgrims are pouring into the city, and the temple courts are packed. This is where Jesus spends most of His day, teaching, debating, and ruffling a few feathers.
The temple courts were like a public square. It was a massive open space with colonnades around the edges. Besides worship, this was also where people gathered to discuss theology, politics, and everything in between. And on this particular Tuesday, all eyes are on Jesus.
But first, a little about Jerusalem’s leaders
The chief priests were part of the Sadducees, a wealthy, elite group who controlled the temple. They weren’t just religious leaders—they were political power players. They had everything to lose if Jesus’ message took hold.
The scribes and elders, on the other hand, were more aligned with the Pharisees. They were experts in the law, people who prided themselves on knowing every rule and tradition. But in their obsession with rules, they missed the heart of God’s message.
The chief priests, scribes, and elders aren’t thrilled about Jesus stealing their spotlight, and they’re determined to put Him in His place. They are also worried that, with His popularity comes a growing descension against Herod, and then unruly mobs - and then upset Romans. In their eyes, it was a lose, lose, lose situation for them. So, they march up to Him and ask: “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things. Who gave you this authority?” (Luke 20:2)
Let’s be clear—they’re not asking because they want to learn. They’re asking because they want to trap Him. If Jesus says His authority comes from God, they’ll accuse Him of blasphemy. If He says it’s His own authority, they’ll discredit Him as a fraud.
But Jesus doesn’t take the bait. Instead, He flips the question back on them and asks about John the Baptist’s authority. They’re stuck. If they say John was sent by God, they’ll expose their own hypocrisy. If they deny John, the crowd will turn on them. So, they hem and haw and finally say, “We don’t know.”
Jesus responds with an ancient mic drop: “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
The Cornerstone
This moment ties back to Psalm 118: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” The religious leaders rejected Jesus, but their rejection didn’t change who He was. He IS the cornerstone—the foundation of everything God is building.
So here’s the question: What about you?
Reflection
Are there areas where you’ve resisted Jesus’ authority? Maybe it’s that voice in your heart saying, “Who gave you the right to tell me what to do?”
Here’s the truth: Jesus doesn’t need your permission to be Lord—He already is. The question is, will you let Him take His rightful place as the cornerstone of your life?
Key Scripture: Luke 20:1-8
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 118:22-23
OK, it’s Tuesday of Holy Week, and Jerusalem is still buzzing. Pilgrims are pouring into the city, and the temple courts are packed. This is where Jesus spends most of His day, teaching, debating, and ruffling a few feathers.
The temple courts were like a public square. It was a massive open space with colonnades around the edges. Besides worship, this was also where people gathered to discuss theology, politics, and everything in between. And on this particular Tuesday, all eyes are on Jesus.
But first, a little about Jerusalem’s leaders
The chief priests were part of the Sadducees, a wealthy, elite group who controlled the temple. They weren’t just religious leaders—they were political power players. They had everything to lose if Jesus’ message took hold.
The scribes and elders, on the other hand, were more aligned with the Pharisees. They were experts in the law, people who prided themselves on knowing every rule and tradition. But in their obsession with rules, they missed the heart of God’s message.
The chief priests, scribes, and elders aren’t thrilled about Jesus stealing their spotlight, and they’re determined to put Him in His place. They are also worried that, with His popularity comes a growing descension against Herod, and then unruly mobs - and then upset Romans. In their eyes, it was a lose, lose, lose situation for them. So, they march up to Him and ask: “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things. Who gave you this authority?” (Luke 20:2)
Let’s be clear—they’re not asking because they want to learn. They’re asking because they want to trap Him. If Jesus says His authority comes from God, they’ll accuse Him of blasphemy. If He says it’s His own authority, they’ll discredit Him as a fraud.
But Jesus doesn’t take the bait. Instead, He flips the question back on them and asks about John the Baptist’s authority. They’re stuck. If they say John was sent by God, they’ll expose their own hypocrisy. If they deny John, the crowd will turn on them. So, they hem and haw and finally say, “We don’t know.”
Jesus responds with an ancient mic drop: “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
The Cornerstone
This moment ties back to Psalm 118: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” The religious leaders rejected Jesus, but their rejection didn’t change who He was. He IS the cornerstone—the foundation of everything God is building.
So here’s the question: What about you?
Reflection
Are there areas where you’ve resisted Jesus’ authority? Maybe it’s that voice in your heart saying, “Who gave you the right to tell me what to do?”
Here’s the truth: Jesus doesn’t need your permission to be Lord—He already is. The question is, will you let Him take His rightful place as the cornerstone of your life?
Wednesday – The Plot to Betray Jesus
Key Scripture: Luke 22:1-6
Parallel OT Scripture: Zechariah 11:12-13
By Wednesday of Holy Week, the tension is palpable. Jesus has been teaching in the temple, challenging the religious leaders, and speaking about the kingdom of God. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, a dark plot is unfolding.
The chief priests and scribes are desperate to silence Him. They’ve watched the crowds grow more captivated by His words, and they see their influence slipping away. But there’s a problem—they fear the people. Arresting Jesus in public could cause an uproar.
That’s when Judas, one of Jesus’ own disciples, enters the picture. “They were delighted and agreed to give him money.” (Luke 22:5)
Wait – let’s back up. There is this verse… “Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve.” Where else in the Bible do you see this happening. God took the holy spirit away from Saul back in 1 Samuel (I think it was 1).
Let me linger a moment. With the Holy Spirit in you, Satan cannot enter! If God removes it – it’s the Devil’s playground. John Wesley talks about backsliding and that there is no such thing as once saved – always saved. This separates Methodist from many other Protestant traditions and lands right in these passages.
Back to the story. For thirty pieces of silver, Judas agrees to betray Jesus. The amount is significant—it fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy: “So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’—the handsome price at which they valued me!” (Zechariah 11:12-13)
Sorry – one more interruption because it is important. Greed and disillusionment clouded Judas’ heart – and brain. What was Judah’s tipping point? I encourage you to visit John 12 to see what ticked Judas’ off. Read that and then look at all the space between that day and today. That is what grudges do; they grow. Hard hearts make bad decisions.
It’s “heartbreaking” to think about. Judas had walked with Jesus for three years. He had seen the miracles, heard the teachings, and broken bread with Him. And one disagreement over how money was spent (my take) and it was his chance to slide back into the conformity of the world. Or as I say, Between the Sundays!
A Little Context
Thirty pieces of silver wasn’t a fortune. In fact, it was the standard price for a slave. And when Zechariah mentions throwing the money to the potter, it foreshadows how Judas’ betrayal would end—with regret, despair, and the silver coins being thrown into the temple and used to buy a potter’s field.
Reflection
Wednesday is the Judas’ story - not Jesus. It's also about all us! It's a sobering reminder of how misplaced priorities can lead us astray. Are there areas in your life where you’ve let greed, pride, or selfish desires overshadow your devotion to Jesus?
Take some time to reflect and ask Him to align your heart with His.
Key Scripture: Luke 22:1-6
Parallel OT Scripture: Zechariah 11:12-13
By Wednesday of Holy Week, the tension is palpable. Jesus has been teaching in the temple, challenging the religious leaders, and speaking about the kingdom of God. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, a dark plot is unfolding.
The chief priests and scribes are desperate to silence Him. They’ve watched the crowds grow more captivated by His words, and they see their influence slipping away. But there’s a problem—they fear the people. Arresting Jesus in public could cause an uproar.
That’s when Judas, one of Jesus’ own disciples, enters the picture. “They were delighted and agreed to give him money.” (Luke 22:5)
Wait – let’s back up. There is this verse… “Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve.” Where else in the Bible do you see this happening. God took the holy spirit away from Saul back in 1 Samuel (I think it was 1).
Let me linger a moment. With the Holy Spirit in you, Satan cannot enter! If God removes it – it’s the Devil’s playground. John Wesley talks about backsliding and that there is no such thing as once saved – always saved. This separates Methodist from many other Protestant traditions and lands right in these passages.
Back to the story. For thirty pieces of silver, Judas agrees to betray Jesus. The amount is significant—it fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy: “So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’—the handsome price at which they valued me!” (Zechariah 11:12-13)
Sorry – one more interruption because it is important. Greed and disillusionment clouded Judas’ heart – and brain. What was Judah’s tipping point? I encourage you to visit John 12 to see what ticked Judas’ off. Read that and then look at all the space between that day and today. That is what grudges do; they grow. Hard hearts make bad decisions.
It’s “heartbreaking” to think about. Judas had walked with Jesus for three years. He had seen the miracles, heard the teachings, and broken bread with Him. And one disagreement over how money was spent (my take) and it was his chance to slide back into the conformity of the world. Or as I say, Between the Sundays!
A Little Context
Thirty pieces of silver wasn’t a fortune. In fact, it was the standard price for a slave. And when Zechariah mentions throwing the money to the potter, it foreshadows how Judas’ betrayal would end—with regret, despair, and the silver coins being thrown into the temple and used to buy a potter’s field.
Reflection
Wednesday is the Judas’ story - not Jesus. It's also about all us! It's a sobering reminder of how misplaced priorities can lead us astray. Are there areas in your life where you’ve let greed, pride, or selfish desires overshadow your devotion to Jesus?
Take some time to reflect and ask Him to align your heart with His.
Thursday – The Last Supper
Key Scripture: Luke 22:14-20
Parallel OT Scripture: Exodus 12:21-23
Holy Thursday is a day of deep meaning and powerful lessons. It’s the night Jesus gathered His disciples for the Last Supper, washed their feet, and gave them a glimpse of His ultimate act of love. Let me show you the lessons they hold for us today.
The Last Supper: A New Covenant
The evening begins with a familiar tradition: the Passover meal. For centuries, Jews celebrated Passover to remember how God delivered them from slavery in Egypt. But this night, Jesus gives it a whole new meaning. The following is our communion covenant we recite each month! (I'd do it more.)
Breaking bread, He says:
“This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)
Then lifting the cup, He declares:
“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:20)
After supper, Jesus shocks His disciples by kneeling to wash their feet. This wasn’t just a kind gesture—it was a radical act of humility. If you have not caught on yet - this is what Luke is trying to convey to us in his entire gospel - the radical presence of Jesus!
Why does Jesus wash their feet? Why do we wash hands?
Fun Fact:
Foot washing was a job for the lowest servant in the house. For the disciples, seeing their Teacher and Lord take on this role was both shocking and unforgettable. Imagine your dentist or doctor washing your feet. It is this radical!
It's also a night of betrayal... so much to cover today!
The room is heavy with emotion as Jesus drops a bombshell:
“Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.” (John 13:21)
The disciples are stunned. They look at one another, whispering, “Is it me?” Judas knows the answer, yet Jesus doesn’t expose him. Instead, He continues to extend love and grace.
Did You Know, that sharing a meal in ancient times was a sign of deep friendship. By including Judas, Jesus gives him one last chance to turn back. (This is about all of us! We all get the same chance as Judas!)
All done for today - Here is our iInvitation to Live Differently
Holy Thursday reminds us of Jesus’ love, humility, and sacrifice. It’s a night that changed everything, and it invites us to live in a new way.
As you reflect on this sacred day, ask yourself, How will I serve others? Am I ready to receive Christ’s grace? Please come to the hand washing tonight - it is transformative!
Lastly, this day begs my favorite question is, How can I love like Jesus? THIS IS WHAT YOU LEARN ON Maundy Thursday!
I hope to see all of you tonight. If you are reading this another time.. well, you missed it! See you next year!
Key Scripture: Luke 22:14-20
Parallel OT Scripture: Exodus 12:21-23
Holy Thursday is a day of deep meaning and powerful lessons. It’s the night Jesus gathered His disciples for the Last Supper, washed their feet, and gave them a glimpse of His ultimate act of love. Let me show you the lessons they hold for us today.
The Last Supper: A New Covenant
The evening begins with a familiar tradition: the Passover meal. For centuries, Jews celebrated Passover to remember how God delivered them from slavery in Egypt. But this night, Jesus gives it a whole new meaning. The following is our communion covenant we recite each month! (I'd do it more.)
Breaking bread, He says:
“This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)
Then lifting the cup, He declares:
“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:20)
After supper, Jesus shocks His disciples by kneeling to wash their feet. This wasn’t just a kind gesture—it was a radical act of humility. If you have not caught on yet - this is what Luke is trying to convey to us in his entire gospel - the radical presence of Jesus!
Why does Jesus wash their feet? Why do we wash hands?
- To Teach True Greatness
In a world obsessed with status, Jesus flips the script. True greatness, He shows, is found in serving others. we are called to reflect His greatness - To Symbolize Cleansing
As Jesus explains to Peter, this act points to the deeper spiritual cleansing He offers:
“Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” (John 13:8). This is really really important to understand - we have to be "cleansed" (through baptism and living). - To Show Unconditional Love
Here’s the amazing part: Jesus washes Judas’ feet, knowing Judas is about to betray Him. I shutter every time I consider what He did. For me, now way Jose!
Fun Fact:
Foot washing was a job for the lowest servant in the house. For the disciples, seeing their Teacher and Lord take on this role was both shocking and unforgettable. Imagine your dentist or doctor washing your feet. It is this radical!
It's also a night of betrayal... so much to cover today!
The room is heavy with emotion as Jesus drops a bombshell:
“Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.” (John 13:21)
The disciples are stunned. They look at one another, whispering, “Is it me?” Judas knows the answer, yet Jesus doesn’t expose him. Instead, He continues to extend love and grace.
Did You Know, that sharing a meal in ancient times was a sign of deep friendship. By including Judas, Jesus gives him one last chance to turn back. (This is about all of us! We all get the same chance as Judas!)
All done for today - Here is our iInvitation to Live Differently
Holy Thursday reminds us of Jesus’ love, humility, and sacrifice. It’s a night that changed everything, and it invites us to live in a new way.
As you reflect on this sacred day, ask yourself, How will I serve others? Am I ready to receive Christ’s grace? Please come to the hand washing tonight - it is transformative!
Lastly, this day begs my favorite question is, How can I love like Jesus? THIS IS WHAT YOU LEARN ON Maundy Thursday!
I hope to see all of you tonight. If you are reading this another time.. well, you missed it! See you next year!
Friday – The Crucifixion
Key Scripture: Luke 23:44-49
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 53:5
Good Friday. The darkest day in history. So, this will be a bit long. No apologies (except for misspellings and grammar).
By now, the city of Jerusalem is a whirlwind of rumors, emotions, and dread. The same crowd that shouted “Hosanna!” on Sunday is now crying, “Crucify Him!” The disciples are scattered, confused, and afraid. And Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, is led to the cross.
Luke tells us that at around noon, darkness fell over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
“For the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.” (Luke 23:45)
The physical darkness mirrors the spiritual weight of this moment – even today. The Son of God is bearing the sin of the world. Every lie, every betrayal, every act of violence, every sin—yours and mine—is placed on Him. Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled: “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5). I think this is what makes today so heavy!
With His final breaths, Jesus cries out, “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit.” And then He dies. The earth shakes, rocks split, and the temple curtain—the symbolic barrier between God and humanity—is torn from top to bottom.
But Why Did Jesus Have to Die?
This is one of the most profound questions of our faith. Why the cross?
Why this gruesome death?
N.T. Wright, is my favorite New Testament scholar. I like how he describes it:
"When Jesus wanted to explain to His disciples what His death was all about, He didn’t give them a theory. He gave them a meal."
The cross wasn’t just a transaction or a theory about sin; it was the ultimate act of love and self-giving. Wright continues:
"The cross is the means by which God’s covenantal purposes are fulfilled, through which the power of evil is broken, and through which God’s new creation is launched in the midst of the old one."
The promise of God for a new covenant had to come someway – somehow - through someone. So God came himself, Christ of the tripartite self.
Jesus’ death wasn’t just about forgiving individual sins (though that’s part of it); it was about defeating the powers of sin, death, and evil that hold the entire world captive. So many people fail to understand this part. By defeating sin and death and let Evil know that it is constrained, God prepares a new Kingdom for those who believe in the Son!
It doesn’t mean we don’t quit sinning – who can. It means we have a reset button to use in our lives for when we do sin and are swayed by the malevolent forces (principalities) of this world. Evil and death and sin all still exist. But WE have a way to minimize it in our lives – IF we believe!
It was the way God kept His promise to set the world right, to rescue humanity, and to restore creation.
As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:21:
“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Deep Reflection for Friday – I’m glad it’s a holiday!
Good Friday invites us to sit in the weight of this sacrifice. Before we rush to the joy of Easter Sunday, let’s linger at the foot of the cross.
This is a day of mourning, yes, but it’s also a day of gratitude. Because of Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin. We are free.
As friend reflected this morning on an encounter she had with evil. She described how, all she had to do was turn and say, “In the name of Jesus Christ, I command you to leave!” Gone!
But it only worked because she believes! That is what the cross was all about!
A Little Challenge
Take some time today to reflect on the cross. Read Luke 23:44-49 slowly. Imagine yourself standing there, watching the sky grow dark and feeling the earth tremble. What would you be thinking? What would you say to Jesus?
It’s a day off – or your retired - you have time for this challenge. It may not be fun.
Then bring all this awareness with you to the "Service of Darkness” tonight. Listen to the choir, and the narration, and live the moment - then leave in the darkness knowing what He did for you!
Key Scripture: Luke 23:44-49
Parallel OT Scripture: Isaiah 53:5
Good Friday. The darkest day in history. So, this will be a bit long. No apologies (except for misspellings and grammar).
By now, the city of Jerusalem is a whirlwind of rumors, emotions, and dread. The same crowd that shouted “Hosanna!” on Sunday is now crying, “Crucify Him!” The disciples are scattered, confused, and afraid. And Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, is led to the cross.
Luke tells us that at around noon, darkness fell over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
“For the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.” (Luke 23:45)
The physical darkness mirrors the spiritual weight of this moment – even today. The Son of God is bearing the sin of the world. Every lie, every betrayal, every act of violence, every sin—yours and mine—is placed on Him. Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled: “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5). I think this is what makes today so heavy!
With His final breaths, Jesus cries out, “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit.” And then He dies. The earth shakes, rocks split, and the temple curtain—the symbolic barrier between God and humanity—is torn from top to bottom.
But Why Did Jesus Have to Die?
This is one of the most profound questions of our faith. Why the cross?
Why this gruesome death?
N.T. Wright, is my favorite New Testament scholar. I like how he describes it:
"When Jesus wanted to explain to His disciples what His death was all about, He didn’t give them a theory. He gave them a meal."
The cross wasn’t just a transaction or a theory about sin; it was the ultimate act of love and self-giving. Wright continues:
"The cross is the means by which God’s covenantal purposes are fulfilled, through which the power of evil is broken, and through which God’s new creation is launched in the midst of the old one."
The promise of God for a new covenant had to come someway – somehow - through someone. So God came himself, Christ of the tripartite self.
Jesus’ death wasn’t just about forgiving individual sins (though that’s part of it); it was about defeating the powers of sin, death, and evil that hold the entire world captive. So many people fail to understand this part. By defeating sin and death and let Evil know that it is constrained, God prepares a new Kingdom for those who believe in the Son!
It doesn’t mean we don’t quit sinning – who can. It means we have a reset button to use in our lives for when we do sin and are swayed by the malevolent forces (principalities) of this world. Evil and death and sin all still exist. But WE have a way to minimize it in our lives – IF we believe!
It was the way God kept His promise to set the world right, to rescue humanity, and to restore creation.
As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:21:
“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Deep Reflection for Friday – I’m glad it’s a holiday!
Good Friday invites us to sit in the weight of this sacrifice. Before we rush to the joy of Easter Sunday, let’s linger at the foot of the cross.
- What does the cross mean to you?
- Are there sins you need to lay down today?
- Have you taken the time to fully grasp the depth of God’s love for you?
This is a day of mourning, yes, but it’s also a day of gratitude. Because of Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin. We are free.
As friend reflected this morning on an encounter she had with evil. She described how, all she had to do was turn and say, “In the name of Jesus Christ, I command you to leave!” Gone!
But it only worked because she believes! That is what the cross was all about!
A Little Challenge
Take some time today to reflect on the cross. Read Luke 23:44-49 slowly. Imagine yourself standing there, watching the sky grow dark and feeling the earth tremble. What would you be thinking? What would you say to Jesus?
It’s a day off – or your retired - you have time for this challenge. It may not be fun.
Then bring all this awareness with you to the "Service of Darkness” tonight. Listen to the choir, and the narration, and live the moment - then leave in the darkness knowing what He did for you!
Saturday – The Silence of the Tomb
Key Scripture: Luke 23:55-56
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 16:9-10
For such a quiet day I am going to go a bit long here....
Imagine the longest, most agonizing day of your life—one where hope feels lost, and you’re left with nothing but silence. That’s what Holy Saturday was like for Jesus’ followers. Their Teacher was dead, His body sealed in a tomb. Everything they thought they knew had come crashing down. And to make it worse, it was the Sabbath—a day meant for rest but one that must have felt unbearable in their grief. (BTW - this is why I call them knuckleheads - Jesus told them how many times this would happen?)
So what did they do? Luke 23:56 tells us, “But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.” Rest? Not sure how one rests when your heart is broken?
The women who had followed Jesus had prepared spices and perfumes to honor His body (Luke 23:55). But Jewish law forbade them from returning to the tomb until the Sabbath was over. So, they had no choice but to wait. Outwardly, the city was quiet, but inwardly? Their minds must have been racing with questions: Was He really gone? Had we been wrong about Him? What now? Everyone was waiting - but for what - for most it was peril and persecution. They had not been listening to Jesus.
Meanwhile, in Jerusalem…
While Jesus’ followers grieved in silence, the city was far from still. Holy Saturday fell during the middle of Passover, one of the busiest times of the year. Pilgrims packed the streets, families gathered for meals, and worship continued at the Temple. On the surface, it was business as usual. But just beneath the surface, things were tense. The religious leaders weren’t ready to relax yet. According to Matthew 27:62-66, they went to Pilate and asked for guards to secure Jesus’ tomb. Why? They were afraid His disciples might steal the body and claim He had risen. Even in death, Jesus unsettled them.
And let’s not forget the Romans. Passover was always a tricky time for them. With so many people gathered in Jerusalem, the potential for rebellion was high. Roman soldiers were on high alert, watching for any signs of unrest.
The city might have looked calm, but it was buzzing with tension—political, religious, and spiritual.
Why the Silence?
So, why the silence? Why didn’t God act immediately after Jesus’ death? From our perspective, silence feels like a void, a waiting room where nothing seems to happen. But in God’s story, silence is never empty. Psalm 16:10 gives us a hint at what was happening behind the scenes: “You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.”
Yah, but - What Was Jesus Doing?
While Jesus’ body lay in the tomb, His spirit was not inactive. Early Christian tradition and Scripture suggest that Jesus descended to the realm of the dead. The Apostles' Creed affirms this: “He descended to the dead” (or “into hell” in some versions). But what does that mean?
1 Peter 3:18-20 explains that after His death, Jesus “went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits.” This wasn’t a second chance for the dead but a declaration of His victory over sin, death, and the powers of evil.
Some traditions call this “the harrowing of hell”—the moment when Jesus freed the righteous (see the picture) who had died before His resurrection, such as Abraham, Moses, and David, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption for all time.
Ok - wrapping it up. If you are reading this blog on a Saturday -bless you!
Ok - so what does Holy Saturday teach us.
If you’ve ever felt like God is silent, you’re not alone. Holy Saturday is a reminder that silence doesn’t mean God isn’t working. The disciples couldn’t see it yet, but Sunday was coming.
Are you in a season of waiting? Do you feel stuck in the silence, wondering if God hears you? Rest in the truth that His story isn’t over. What feels like an ending might actually be the setup for something extraordinary.
The silence of Saturday was just the prelude to the victory of Sunday.
Key Scripture: Luke 23:55-56
Parallel OT Scripture: Psalm 16:9-10
For such a quiet day I am going to go a bit long here....
Imagine the longest, most agonizing day of your life—one where hope feels lost, and you’re left with nothing but silence. That’s what Holy Saturday was like for Jesus’ followers. Their Teacher was dead, His body sealed in a tomb. Everything they thought they knew had come crashing down. And to make it worse, it was the Sabbath—a day meant for rest but one that must have felt unbearable in their grief. (BTW - this is why I call them knuckleheads - Jesus told them how many times this would happen?)
So what did they do? Luke 23:56 tells us, “But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.” Rest? Not sure how one rests when your heart is broken?
The women who had followed Jesus had prepared spices and perfumes to honor His body (Luke 23:55). But Jewish law forbade them from returning to the tomb until the Sabbath was over. So, they had no choice but to wait. Outwardly, the city was quiet, but inwardly? Their minds must have been racing with questions: Was He really gone? Had we been wrong about Him? What now? Everyone was waiting - but for what - for most it was peril and persecution. They had not been listening to Jesus.
Meanwhile, in Jerusalem…
While Jesus’ followers grieved in silence, the city was far from still. Holy Saturday fell during the middle of Passover, one of the busiest times of the year. Pilgrims packed the streets, families gathered for meals, and worship continued at the Temple. On the surface, it was business as usual. But just beneath the surface, things were tense. The religious leaders weren’t ready to relax yet. According to Matthew 27:62-66, they went to Pilate and asked for guards to secure Jesus’ tomb. Why? They were afraid His disciples might steal the body and claim He had risen. Even in death, Jesus unsettled them.
And let’s not forget the Romans. Passover was always a tricky time for them. With so many people gathered in Jerusalem, the potential for rebellion was high. Roman soldiers were on high alert, watching for any signs of unrest.
The city might have looked calm, but it was buzzing with tension—political, religious, and spiritual.
Why the Silence?
So, why the silence? Why didn’t God act immediately after Jesus’ death? From our perspective, silence feels like a void, a waiting room where nothing seems to happen. But in God’s story, silence is never empty. Psalm 16:10 gives us a hint at what was happening behind the scenes: “You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.”
Yah, but - What Was Jesus Doing?
While Jesus’ body lay in the tomb, His spirit was not inactive. Early Christian tradition and Scripture suggest that Jesus descended to the realm of the dead. The Apostles' Creed affirms this: “He descended to the dead” (or “into hell” in some versions). But what does that mean?
1 Peter 3:18-20 explains that after His death, Jesus “went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits.” This wasn’t a second chance for the dead but a declaration of His victory over sin, death, and the powers of evil.
Some traditions call this “the harrowing of hell”—the moment when Jesus freed the righteous (see the picture) who had died before His resurrection, such as Abraham, Moses, and David, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption for all time.
Ok - wrapping it up. If you are reading this blog on a Saturday -bless you!
Ok - so what does Holy Saturday teach us.
If you’ve ever felt like God is silent, you’re not alone. Holy Saturday is a reminder that silence doesn’t mean God isn’t working. The disciples couldn’t see it yet, but Sunday was coming.
Are you in a season of waiting? Do you feel stuck in the silence, wondering if God hears you? Rest in the truth that His story isn’t over. What feels like an ending might actually be the setup for something extraordinary.
The silence of Saturday was just the prelude to the victory of Sunday.
Day 7: He Has Risen!!
Key Scripture: Luke 24:1-6
Parallel OT Scripture: Hosea 6:2
He has Risen!
What, did you expect more? Two services today, pick one and come rejoice!
He has Risen, Indeed!
Key Scripture: Luke 24:1-6
Parallel OT Scripture: Hosea 6:2
He has Risen!
What, did you expect more? Two services today, pick one and come rejoice!
He has Risen, Indeed!
2 Comments
Priceless readings and blog! Even though we read and study this story of our King each Easter season - it just comes Alive as you walk us through this Holy Week. Thank you for your passion and giving us deep thoughts to reflect upon. God bless you Pastor
nI actually read this each day as you planned. I understand a bit clearer and appreciate your time spent doing this as it is helping me appreciate this season and Easter better.