Holy Week

Today is Palm Sunday, the traditional start of Holy Week. Think about the range of emotions evoked in the events of this week. It started with excitement, joy, expectation, hope, exultation, triumph. Shouts of "Hosanna!" rang out. The crowds were celebrating because they were expecting something totally different than what their Champion had in mind.

By Thursday evening, the mood was more somber. Questioning, confusion, maybe even a little doubt.

Friday was a dark day. Defeat, despair, and paralyzing fear morphed into sorrow and mourning. A dreadful loss. A crisis of faith.

(Good Friday 2019)

(Good Friday 2020)

Last year, most churches were closed due to covid, or got creative holding Holy Week services online or outside. Our church observed Good Friday outside. A member had a stage, cross, and tomb constructed. We all stayed in our cars on a beautiful evening, taking communion as the sun set in the west. Covid was still mysterious and reports were confusing. Nobody ever imagined not being able to gather together in our churches for the most important week of the year. But now, as I look at these pictures, I remember it as a special time. Funny how trials and challenges really make you appreciate the things you always took for granted.

And then the Resurrection. Amazement and wonder mixed with a bit of doubtful reservation.

I love this week of the liturgical calendar. It's a time to pause, really pause, and reflect on the events that took place over 2,000 years ago, yet are remembered today even by those who don't embrace what faith in Jesus Christ is all about.

These images are from my files of pictures I've taken at some local churches over the last few years. I love symbolism. It's a tool dating from ancient times, when people were uneducated, to help them understand the profound divine. Now we have a wealth of knowledge and understanding. This was prophesied in Daniel 12:4. But traditions, symbolic objects, and sacred ceremonies are still important today because they pull us out of the daily - the mundane but necessary routines of life - and help us put our attention on things beyond our tiny selves.

I found a good article you might enjoy to begin your own week of meditation and reflection.

https://www.danwilt.com/the-10-emotions-of-easter/

"But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
and He will stand upon the earth at last."
~ Job 19:25