This week marks the journey from Palm Sunday to Easter—what we call Holy Week. As a Christian, Easter Sunday is the most important and exciting day of the year.
I still have vivid memories of sitting in Sunday school as a little girl, looking at poster board photos of Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem, the weight of the crucifixion, the heavy stone at the grave, and finally, the illustration of the empty tomb.
As I’ve grown, those stories have moved from the poster board to my heart. The more mature I become in my relationship with Jesus, the more passionate and compassionate I feel when I read the account of everything my Savior went through for me.
I sat down and read through all four Gospels to see Holy Week through the eyes of those who witnessed it. Even though each gospel brings a different “flavor” and insight to the story, I’m always struck by how the Bible is God-breathed and entirely true.
While reading, I focused on the specific characteristics Jesus displayed each day. I found that reading God’s Word out loud makes it feel even more alive. I want to encourage you to do the same: spend time with the Man who died for you and reflect on your relationship with Him.
Palm Sunday: The Humble King
- Humble: He entered not on a warhorse, but a donkey. (Matthew 21:5, John 12:15)
- True: He was sure of His words and the plan ahead. (Mark 11:2-3, Matthew 21:2-3, Luke 19:30-32)
- Heartbroken: He wept for those who were not yet saved. (Luke 19:41-44)
Monday: The Passionate Protector
- Passionate: He cleared the temple with divine authority. (Matthew 21:12-13, Luke 19:45-46)
- Captivating: The crowds were spellbound by His teaching. (Mark 11:18, Luke 19:48)
Tuesday: The Wise Teacher
- Truthful: Even His enemies recognized His integrity. (Matthew 22:16, Mark 12:14, Luke 20:21)
- Servant–Hearted: He reminded us that the greatest must be a servant. (Matthew 23:11)
- Hopeful & Forgiving: Even while speaking of the end times, He preached hope and the necessity of forgiveness. (Matthew 24:4-14, Mark 11:25)
Wednesday: The Treasured Son
- Treasured: Jesus is anointed with expensive oil, a beautiful act of devotion. (Mark 14:3-9, Matthew 26:6-13)
Thursday: The Prayerful Servant
- Truthful: He spoke openly about what was to come. (Matthew 26:21, 34)
- Prayerful: In the Garden of Gethsemane, He showed us why we pray: to resist temptation. (Matthew 26:36-41, John 17)
- Confident: He submitted fully to the Father’s will. (Matthew 26:39, 53-54)
Good Friday: The Courageous Savior
- Calm & Courageous: He stood silent and brave before His accusers. (Matthew 27:11-44, Luke 23)
- Forgiving & Comforting: Even from the cross, He offered grace to those around Him. (Luke 23:34, 43)
Holy Saturday: The Quiet Sabbath
The scriptures are quiet regarding Jesus’ characteristics while in the tomb. While much was happening on earth, that time was between Him and His Father.
Easter Sunday: The Risen Lord!
- Alive!: The tomb is empty! (Matthew 28:1-15, John 20:1-8)
- Captivating: He walked with His disciples, making their hearts burn within them. (Luke 24:32)
- Relatable: I love that the Gospels mention He was hungry after the resurrection—something I can definitely relate to! (Luke 24:41)
As you read through the Gospels this week, I’m sure you’ll find even more adjectives to describe Him. I’m ready to reread and fall more in love with Jesus, my Savior. I pray that you dive into God’s Word and soak Him up! Be a sponge, be reflective, and be blessed.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie