THE HEART OF HOLY WEEK

 What makes Holy Week holy?

Jesus’ seven last words, spoken just before his death on a cross, offer us a concise summary of what he believed (and practiced). In short, it's what makes Holy Week holy. Here’s what he said accompanied by one interpretation of each "last word."

“Father, forgive them for they know not what they are doing.” (Lk 23:34)
Let’s practice forgiveness as one of the personal hallmarks of our way of being in the world. The world (and we) will be better for it.

“I thirst.” (Jn 19:28) 
Let’s practice recognizing we are humans with physical bodies, which have real needs that, if and when addressed, will teach us how to live healthy, transformative lives.

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mt 27:46)
Let’s commit ourselves to practicing deep honesty—even when it comes to acknowledging our doubts about God.

“Today you shall be with me in paradise.” (Lk 23:43)
Let’s practice speaking genuine words of hope to others, especially when they are in crisis, feeling fearful or deeply troubled.

“Woman, behold your son. Son, behold your mother.” (Jn 19:26-27) 
Let’s practice the kind of compassion that is more than an emotion—a compassion that reveals itself in proactively identifying and addressing the needs of those around us.

“It is finished.” (Jn 19:30) 
Let’s practice affirming and celebrating that our lives include a spiritual dimension—and that each (and every) person is integral to the much larger picture of God’s love for all of creation.

“Into your hands I commend my spirit.” (Lk 23:46) 
Let’s practice courageously entrusting our whole lives—past, present, future—to God’s grace-grounded love...and do so beginning with this very moment.

The seven last words of Christ are not just at the heart of Holy Week. They reveal the heart of Jesus Christ. After all, he is the heart of Holy Week. Practicing his words throughout our lives is what makes this—and every other week—holy.