The word “Passion” is used to describe the final events of Jesus’ life. Namely his suffering and crucifixion. Although the word itself comes from the Greek and Latin, it is interesting to note that for us in English “passion” is also a word that denotes powerful and compelling feelings, especially feelings of love. How appropriate that that word would describe these events.
We are now into Holy Week. It is a time for us to revisit the story of Jesus' passion. Not in order to be morbid and to feel bad. It is not meant to manipulate your feelings and make you feel guilty. Instead, see it as a reminder of the great love that our God has for you. See it as a chance to be immersed in the story anew and fresh knowing that Jesus wasn’t tricked into this. But he willing chose to do this. He did not have to. At any point he could have called upon legions of angels to come to his rescue. He did this for you.
Out of his great love for you, and his desire to be with you, he endured these events. This story is ultimately a love story. It is very real, very personal and very much for you. This week you will have opportunities to spend some time immersing yourself in this story. You will hear it read. You will see it in the worship services of the week. You will hear it in the music that is sung.
It is my prayer that this time would prepare you for the upcoming celebration of Easter. That you would find in this Holy Week a new understanding of God’s great love for you. That you would be reassured of his forgiveness and mercy and the life that he gives to you for the sake of Jesus. That you would be renewed in your desire to live your life in a way that reflects his love and grace and mercy in how you see yourself and how you see others in your lives.
Jesus endured his Passion out of the passion that he feels for you. May the story be a great blessing to you as we find ourselves immersed in it today, this week, and beyond.
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