The week leading up to Easter is a busy and emotional time for the church. Pastors and leaders prepare for extra services—maybe Maundy Thursday, maybe Good Friday. Extra volunteers are scheduled for nursery. Preparations are made for communion. We think about how to welcome our neighbors. The church is busy.
We are busy as individuals too. We make plans to attend special services. We find something nice to wear on Easter Sunday. We go to the grocery store, preparing food for friends and family.
In the middle of the busy, we remember the Holy. We read through the Gospels, soaking up the detail of each account. We spend time in reflection and prayer. We come to the foot of the cross, brought to tears at the high cost of our sin. We turn down the lights and sing songs of suffering, songs of pain. But days later it is Easter and we arrive to find the empty tomb. We celebrate the best news the world will ever receive. Death has been defeated, we serve a risen Savior! We sing songs of hope, songs of joy. We open the windows and let in the light. What a week!
As we go through Holy Week and celebrate Easter Sunday, I'd love to know: What traditions and/or parts of the week are most meaningful to you?
I'll get us started by sharing something meaningful to me in the comments below.