This week marks the beginning of the most sacred time in the church year. I never tire of the traditions established centuries ago to remember the sacrifice of the Son of Man-Jesus the Christ. The services conducted on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday, bring the reality of God’s love for us into focus. Yes, these services require a level of sacrifice on our part to attend and participate, but the value is worth the price.

I often wonder how so many people can just go about their everyday business on these special days. Why aren’t all churches which recognize and commemorate these holy days crammed with believers like they are on Christmas Eve and Morn?

The story told during Holy Week is the central belief of all Christians. It is the greatest gift of our God. The God who came to earth in the human form to save us from the finality of death. He suffered a cruel and inhumane death as a sacrifice for all people out of the pure unconditional love which He has for all of us.

Twelve Step Programs talk about “keeping the memory green”. That’s what Holy Week does for me. It keeps me mindful that there is proof positive of God’s love for me. God’s desire to share eternal life with Him is demonstrated each time I read the Holy Week gospels and reflect on the amazing events that occurred during that time over two thousand years ago.

May the blessings of this special time be with all of you and your loved ones. Read Luke 22 and remember that God loves you unconditionally.

Terri