The lesson of Job mimics the Passion of Christ, who remained faithful to God even as He was being betrayed, mocked, tortured, and crucified.  These seven days are called Holy Week because without the crucifixion, there would have been no Resurrection Sunday. Had Christ not hung on the cross, taken on our sins, and defeated Satan’s power, His rising again would not have been as meaningful. We know how the story ends, but try not to jump ahead in your mind and heart. Each day, put yourself in the moment and take the place of Jesus, of the disciples, of the Roman soldiers and, if you dare, of Judas. Live it as it unfolds. 

 

Day 1.     Luke 22:1-22

Reflect: What do you think was behind Judas’ betrayal of Jesus? How did Jesus feel about it? What was Jesus saying about Passover in verses 15-16? What is the old and new covenant?

Apply:   The cup Jesus offered is referred to in many ways—the cup of salvation, blessing, suffering, forgiveness, sanctification. How do you see His cup? Is Jesus showing you a new way?

Pray:      Spotless Lamb of God, I worship You for all You are and for all You have done to bring loving reconciliation and eternal hope to the human race. Thank You for Your complete obedience and unending compassion.

 

Day 2       Luke 22:39-54

Reflect: What is Jesus teaching us about prayer? In what other ways do we betray Jesus (verse 48)? How do you see Jesus’ humanity and divinity? What speaks loudest?

Apply:   How has prayer helped you in times of temptation? Times of suffering? How have angels ministered to you (verse 43)? How have you attempted to defend Jesus (verse 49)? 

Pray:      Father, the more I try to imagine what it was like that night in Gethsemane, the more I weep for You and Jesus. Teach me to pray; to continually submit and entrust my life to You for this day and with an eternal perspective for a glorious future. Make me like Jesus. 

 

Day 3       Luke 23:1-25 

Reflect: What did the leaders think Jesus wanted?  Why didn’t Jesus answer Herod? What do you think of Pilate? Why would the people rather have violent Barabbas than peaceful Jesus? 

Apply:   Why do people oppose Jesus today? How do you explain the passion they had for Jesus to be crucified? How have you been ridiculed and mocked for your faith in Jesus Christ? 

Pray:     God, help me to never base my life on the will of the crowd, but to have courage to live Your way. Holy Spirit, empower me to be ready to give an answer for the hope I have in Christ.

 

Day 4      Luke 23:26-46 

Reflect: What do you make of Jesus’ response to the women following Him? Why did Jesus not say, “I forgive them,” but “Father, forgive them”? How do you see grace versus works in action? 

Apply:   Consider how you feel about this statement—Jesus died because He deserved it. (See 2 Corinthians 5:21) How do you sacrifice for your faith? What does the torn curtain mean to you?

Pray:     Jesus, thank You for Your example and the price you paid to provide grace for me. O Holy Spirit, fill and empower me to have the same trust during my struggles as my Lord displayed as he faced his trials and death.

 

Day 5       Luke 23:50-24:8

Reflect: What details stand out as you read this text? Why was what Joseph did an act of courage? Notice the word must (verse 7). What things do you feel you must do for the Lord?   

Apply:   Are there situations when you feel afraid to show that you follow Jesus? What difference does Jesus’ death and resurrection make in your life? How have you died to self?

Pray:     Jesus, give me courage to face the difficult times in my life. Give me the faith to live according to Your Word, and the discipline and the will to honor You in simple obedience. 

 

Put It Into Practice!

Week 7   Holy Week

Jesus modeled the discipline of prayer and fasting in His life. This week, consider fasting one meal on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. As you meditate on the day’s meaning, seek deeper intimacy with the Lord.