The last few days of Holy Week are packed with so much. On Thursday, He washed His disciples’ feet as a servant would. The institution of the Lord’s Supper occurred – a miracle meal that continues today. Jesus prepared His followers for what was about to happen. He foretold His betrayal and denial. He gave them a new commandment to follow – to love one another as He first loved. They went to the Garden of Gethsemane – a place of refuge for Jesus. He prayed feverishly that His Father would change His plans. A mob entered the garden, led by Judas, who betrayed his master with a kiss. Peter tried to fend off the assailants by cutting off the ear of a servant, Malchus. The Messiah gave us one more miracle, by restoring that ear. Jesus was arrested, His followers fled. He was bound and taken to the house of the high priest to be judged. These events were all intricate parts of God’s greater plan of salvation through His only begotten Son. The events of the next day would prove to be anything but good.

I try to imagine what it was like to be alive during this time in history. The events of Holy Week are clearly written in the Bible, so we have proof, because the Bible is God’s inspired voice. He has given us a clear picture of what happened and why it did. Jesus wasn’t destined to become a martyr. He came with a specific mission. All these things needed to happen in order for His Father’s plan to reach fruition. The redemption of mankind would be achieved as promised.

The time was right. The setting was filled with the richness of a thriving metropolis, much like today. There was no internet, no technology, no concert halls where He could speak. His ministry took place in the countryside – at a friend’s wedding – in the streets where the neediest resided. He traveled by foot. He fished for His dinner. He weathered storms. He got tired. He was like any other human being, yet He never was overtaken by sin.

What an amazing gift our God has blessed us with. The promised Messiah came to live with His creation. He suffered and died for us. He conquered death. He returned to Heaven and has prepared a place for each of us. I know that my Redeemer lives.