“For to me, to live is Christ” – Philippians 1:21
Throughout most of church history, Christians everywhere have set aside these eight days—Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday—as a time of solemn focus and reflection. And there’s good reason for it. These eight days contain the greatest, most dramatic, wholly transformative events in all of human history. They are the epic climax to what is commonly known as “The Greatest Story Ever Told.”
This week, sometimes referred to as Passion Week, is particularly epic. The events of this week have global and universal impact. Yet they also affect us individually and personally. They changed the course of history, as well as that of our own individual lives. These are the days of our redemption, as it was divinely accomplished in time and space. They were the final days on earth of the long-awaited Messiah, the Savior of the world.
Every year, these eight days provide an opportunity for us to pause and focus attentively on what really matters. Regardless of how many times we may have heard it, this story is worth revisiting again and again. It’s through these events we come to appreciate the enormity of the price and sacrifice that had to be made in order for us to receive the greatest gift the world has ever known.
Let’s devote this week to “fixing our eyes on Jesus,”[i] as he resolutely sets out toward Jerusalem.[ii] Let’s identify with him, as he identifies with us on the cross. Let’s rise with him, as he leaves the tomb behind, breaking the power of sin and death. Let’s live for him with passion, because he lives for us in Glory!
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