Mar 29

Lenten Message- Holy Week

I remember taking my mother to the movie The Passion of the Christ when it first came out. It was a movie she wanted to see and so we went. As a cradle Catholic, I’ve heard the passion story for as long as I can remember, but when I saw this version play on the big screen, it provided me a deeper understanding. Hollywood aside, the movie graphically depicted the brutality of the events leading up to and including the crucifixion. I still remember the hush in the theatre at the conclusion of the movie.

The treatment of Jesus was inhuman to say the least. There was so much hatred and gang mentality. Even with the gospel readings and the various art depictions of the crucifixion, one can only slightly imagine the suffering Christ endured for us. And yet, that is exactly what we must remember as we begin this Holy Week and final journey before the wondrous season of Easter. Christ suffered for us, died for us and rose from the dead, all for us!

We all have our own crosses but they pale in comparison to the one that Christ carried for us. Think closely at Jesus washing the feet of twelve of his closest friends knowing they would all desert him in his hour of need. Remember the taunting and the beating he endured. Reflect on the long walk carrying a heavy wooden cross. And finally, imagine the nails piercing his hands and his feet. Here is the picture of our Lord in all his vulnerability. That is suffering! No matter the sacrifices we made this past Lent, it does not compare to His sacrifice.

As we enter this Holy Week, may we be reminded of this journey of the cross. May we die a little with Christ on Friday only to be reborn again with him on Easter Sunday. And finally, may God bless you this coming Easter Season!

 

Chris Smeaton

After nearly a 35 year career in education, I retired as the Superintendent of Schools in January 2020. While in the role as superintendent, I sat on two national committees, ERDI and C21 and also was an adjunct professor for Gonzaga University. I now work as a leadership consultant supporting the work of school boards, system and school leaders.

4 Comments

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    • Catherine Sikina on March 29, 2015 at 6:40 PM
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    Dear Chris
    I just wanted to let you know that i have enjoyed reading your LENTEN MESSAGES, they have given me food for thought and lots to reflect upon these past weeks.
    May God Bless You and Your Family on Holy Easter Sunday and Keep You In His Loving Care Each Step Along Life’s Way.
    Catherine Sikina
    F.L.V.T.
    Kindergarten PUF

    1. Thank you Catherine for your comments! I’m glad that they have been helpful for you. They were certainly challenging for me but I’m very happy that I took the risk to write them. Have a Blessed Easter!

    • Colin Desnoyers on March 29, 2015 at 6:56 PM
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    Enjoyed reading your posts the past few weeks. So accurate and to the point. I love it when a Christian doesn’t pull any punches and says it directly from the heart and with grace. Great job. I wrote in my blog yesterday about surrendering and what that may or may not look like as we see His disciples scatter when push came to shove. http://colindesnoyers.tumblr.com Have a great Holy Week!

    1. Thanks Colin, I appreciate your remarks. I just read your blog and that was a wonderful read! I hope you share it with many as it provides a powerful message. Thanks again for keeping tabs on your old teacher! Take care and God bless!

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