The Only Way is Through
Holy Week, the most sacred time in the Christian calendar, commemorates the final days of Jesus Christ leading to His crucifixion and resurrection, one of the key events leading up to Holy Week was the raising of Lazarus from the dead. This miraculous act, performed in Bethany, not only demonstrated Jesus’ divine power over life and death but also intensified the hostility of the Jewish authorities. The chief priests and Pharisees, fearing His growing influence, began plotting to kill Him, believing that His popularity could lead to unrest and Roman intervention.
As Jesus traveled toward Jerusalem, He stopped in Jericho, where He encountered Zacchaeus, a tax collector. This meeting symbolized Jesus’ mission of salvation for sinners, as He declared, “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). His teachings on humility, servanthood, and the kingdom of God became more urgent, preparing His disciples for what was to come. Meanwhile, the growing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders reached a breaking point, making His arrival in Jerusalem even more dramatic.
Before entering the city, Jesus would visit Bethany again, where He was anointed by Mary, the sister of Lazarus. This act of devotion foreshadowed His burial, as He stated, “She has anointed my body beforehand for burial” (Mark 14:8). The extravagant display of love contrasted sharply with Judas Iscariot’s growing disillusionment, which would later lead to his betrayal. With Passover approaching, the stage was set for Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week.
These events highlight the mounting anticipation, opposition, and deep spiritual significance of Jesus’ final days before His passion. His miracles, teachings, and prophetic actions not only revealed His identity as the Messiah but also fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. As He entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, the people shouted “Hosanna!” unaware that in just a few days, the same crowd would call for His crucifixion. The journey to the cross had begun, and Holy Week would soon unfold in all its divine purpose.
Peace,
Nathan Bentley