The last week of Jesus’ life is known as the Holy Week or the Passion Week. It was a significant time for Christians as it marked the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Let’s take a closer look at what Jesus did during this week.
Palm Sunday
On Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, and his followers welcomed him by laying palm branches and their cloaks on the ground. This event is known as the Triumphal Entry.
Monday
On Monday, Jesus went to the temple and drove out the money changers and merchants who were selling goods there. He said, “My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.'” (Matthew 21:13)
Tuesday
On Tuesday, Jesus taught in the temple and had several confrontations with religious leaders who were trying to trap him with their questions. He also gave his disciples instructions about his return and the end times (Matthew 24).
Wednesday
There is no record of what Jesus did on Wednesday. Some scholars believe that he spent this day resting in Bethany.
Maundy Thursday
On Maundy Thursday, Jesus shared his Last Supper with his disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem. During this meal, he instituted the sacrament of Communion or Eucharist, where bread represents his body and wine represents his blood. He also washed his disciples’ feet as an act of humility and service.
Good Friday
On Good Friday, Jesus was arrested in Gethsemane after praying for strength to face his impending death. He was then tried by Jewish and Roman authorities and sentenced to death by crucifixion.
He carried his cross through the streets of Jerusalem to the place of his execution, Golgotha or Calvary. He was then crucified along with two thieves.
Easter Sunday
On Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead, and his resurrection is celebrated as the most significant event in Christian history. His resurrection fulfilled the prophecies about the Messiah and proved that he was indeed the Son of God.
Conclusion
The last week of Jesus’ life was a time of intense activity and emotion. He fulfilled his mission by offering himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity and rising from the dead to give us eternal life. As we reflect on this holy week, let us remember Jesus’ love for us and strive to live our lives in a way that honors him.