From Grief to Joy — The Surprise of Easter
A short reflection on Jesus' Last Week
Stories about the events of Holy Week fill a significant portion of every gospel. They are important to us as Christians and our responses to them help shape our faith. Yet these stories are full of surprises, and as we read about Jesus’ final days, his death, and his resurrection, it’s clear these events were anything but predictable.
Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, leading a demonstration, but isn’t arrested right away. The Sanhedrin holds Jesus’ trial at night, breaking their own laws. Pilate, usually ruthless, lets the crowd choose between Jesus and Barabbas. A Roman centurion – not a Jew – is the first to recognise Jesus as the Son of God. And while most crucified people were left to rot, Jesus receives a dignified burial.
We can imagine and identify with what some of the key figures were feeling. Jesus’ anger at the traders in the Temple. Peter’s fear causing him to deny Jesus three times. Despair when Jesus cries out from the cross, feeling abandoned by God. Thomas’ doubt when he hears about Jesus’ appearance to the others.
For me the pivotal moment is when Jesus appears to his disciples. Their grief at the loss of their friend and leader turns to joy. Their belief that Jesus is truly alive fills them with courage to carry on his mission of building God’s Kingdom.
As we hear these stories again, may we feel that same joy and courage. The Good News is alive, “Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed!”
Ngā mihi
Philip
20 April 2025