Four Thoughts Leading to Holy Week

by Katie Harding on April 4, 2022

Next Sunday is Palm Sunday, so this morning I studied Jesus’ time prior to His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. As I focused on Mark 8-10, I realized Jesus told His disciples not once, not twice, but three times about His upcoming suffering, death and resurrection. In reflecting on those three instances, I had four observations.

There are some messages Jesus has for us privately.
Even though there were often others around, when Jesus wanted to teach His disciples what was about to happen, He took the twelve aside by themselves. Not everything Jesus tells us is for everybody. There are times Jesus wants to speak to us strictly for our benefit.

Sometimes we fear what Jesus has to tell us.
When Jesus foretold His death and resurrection, His disciples had different reactions. Peter took Jesus aside to rebuke Him. The disciples argued about who was the greatest, and James and John requested special privileges. Our fear and avoidance doesn’t make Jesus’ truth any less true.

Jesus will often tell us something more than once.
Three different times Jesus told His disciples about His death, so they could recall His words later. When we have a thought during prayer and hear the same thing from a friend or see it in print, write it down. It can be easy to forget what Jesus wants us to remember.

Following Jesus is not about being first.
Each time Jesus shared about His future, He also shared His perspective for us as followers. It could be summarized by these two words: “Deny ourselves.” Following Jesus is not about getting, but giving. It’s not a position of privilege, but one of service. “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve…”

As we approach Holy Week, I encourage you to re-read these words of Jesus, sit with them, and listen to what He might be saying to you. I would love to hear your thoughts.