Reflection - Holy Week

Holy Week reveals a dual peak: the depth of human suffering and the height of divine glorification. Good Friday marks the extreme suffering of the ‘Son of Man.’ Easter Sunday shows the supreme triumph of the ‘Son of God.’

Pilate brought Jesus, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple cloak, before the crowds, and said, “Behold, the man.”

His appearance was so disfigured by scourging and torture that he scarcely resembled a human being. Yet, instead of showing sympathy and compassion, the crowd cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him.” He was crucified. Those present beheld him praying for his enemies, shedding his blood for salvation, and offering his life to the Father.

On Easter Sunday, the disciples beheld him in glory and power as the Son of God. The risen Jesus revealed himself to those he chose, granting them joy, strength, mission, and guidance. He commanded them to go to the ends of the earth, proclaim the Good News, and make disciples.

In this Holy Week, 2.5 billion Christians worldwide walk this journey with Jesus. On Palm Sunday, they process triumphantly. On Holy Thursday, they sit at table with him at the Lord’s Supper, partaking of the Holy Eucharist. On Good Friday, they stand at the foot of the Cross with Mary, John, and the other disciples, gazing upon the excruciating pain, the ultimate sacrifice, and the perfect offering to God the Father. On Holy Saturday, a deep stillness falls upon them; with all creation, they silently await new beginnings. That night, they participate in the celebration of light and life at the Easter Vigil. At the dawn of Easter Sunday, they rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus, sharing in his joy and peace.

Let us join them—the Church Militant (on earth) and the Church Suffering (in purgatory), together with the Church Triumphant (in heaven)—in our journey with Jesus during this Holy Week. We learn humility at the Lord’s Supper, self-sacrifice at the foot of the Cross, and the power of light over darkness at the Easter Vigil. At the dawn of Easter Sunday, we receive the fruits of salvation.