“Jesus said: I am the Way; I am Truth and Life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father too. From this moment you know him and have seen him.” – John 14:6-7

In the face of doubt, hopelessness, and unkindness – how did you respond? Jesus experienced all these and so much more on the road to Calvary. Christ became obedient unto death on the cross for us. He bore the sins of the world to give us new life – not in the distant past, but today.

Let’s pause and think about those who have betrayed your trust, misunderstood you, passed judgement on you, or scoffed at your best efforts. There are definitely parallels to be drawn between Jesus’s road to Calvary and how we carry our own crosses in life.

In fact, contrary to a popular saying, God will give you more than you can handle. “For this is how God loved the world: he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life” (John 3:16). God our Father is telling us not to rely on our own strength, but to turn to him. This is an invitation to follow him and believe in God’s providence in his time.

During this Lenten season, how have you journeyed with Him in preparation for Good Friday and Easter? Let’s look at some of the ways you can prepare for Holy Week:

Fast and spend quiet time with God

Light a candle and reflect on Psalm 22.

Meditate on The Way of the Cross (Via Crucis)

This year, the Church dedicates space to young people at the Synod in October. Pope Francis has asked that the Passion of Christ to be meditated upon by the new generation. A group of 15 students, led by Prof. Andrea Monda will write the Way of the Cross meditations for Good Friday at the Colosseum in Rome. Join these youths in meditating on the way of the cross and pray for those who need God most.

Pray the Act of Reparation

Pray the Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in your daily devotion leading up to Easter.

Listen to Holy Week Hymns and Worship Songs

Why by Nicole Nordeman

It Took a Lamb by Geron Davis

We are the Reason by Avalon

Worthy is the Lamb by Hillsongs

Above All by Michael W. Smith

Lamb of God by Twila Paris

Jesus Remember Me by Taize

Wait for the Lord by Taize

Bring a friend to observe Palm Sunday and the Triduum

Beginning with Palm Sunday, bring a friend to church and introduce him/her to Holy Week. Share the importance of the Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Vigil) in our faith and your Lenten journey with them.

By Charlene Sng