Holy Week
Sheena Wade
Written by:
Sheena Wade
Sheena Wade is the creator behind Abiding with Intent. A a faith-centered space built on the love and Word of Jesus Christ to help women grow in their faith and be consistent in their prayer life.
Did You Know These Hidden Facts About Holy Week?
More Than a Week... A Journey of Faith
Holy Week is one of the most meaningful times in the Christian faith, yet for many of us, the days between Palm Sunday and Resurrection Sunday can start to blur together into names and traditions we've heard but never fully unpacked. This year, let's slow down and walk through what each day actually means, so you can reflect more deeply and carry it with you into Easter.
Palm Sunday: A King Who Chose Peace
The Insight:
Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, but what often gets overlooked is how He entered. He rode on a donkey.
In biblical times, this was not random. A king riding a horse symbolized war. A king riding a donkey symbolized peace.
What This Means for You:
Jesus didn’t come to conquer people, instead He came to save them.
This moment reminds us that His kingdom is built on humility, not force.
Scripture to Read: Matthew 21:1–11
Source:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Palm-Sunday
Holy Wednesday: The Quiet Betrayal
The Insight:
Holy Wednesday is often called “Spy Wednesday.” This refers to Judas Iscariot agreeing to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. The word “spy” simply means someone secretly working against another.
What This Means for You:
Not every betrayal is loud. Some happen quietly.
This day invites reflection: Are we staying faithful, even when it’s hard?
Scripture to Read: Matthew 26:14–16
Source:
https://www.catholic.org/lent/spywednesday.php
Maundy Thursday: A Command to Love
The Insight:
The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning command. This refers to Jesus’ words:
“Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)
Simple Definition:
Mandatum = command or instruction
This is also the day Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. A powerful act of humility and service.
What This Means for You:
Love is not just a feeling, it’s an action.
True faith is shown through how we serve others.
Scripture to Read: John 13:1–17, 34–35
Source:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Maundy-Thursday
Good Friday: Why Is It Called “Good”?
The Insight:
At first glance, calling the day of Jesus’ crucifixion “good” can feel confusing. But historically, the word “good” meant holy or sacred.
Simple Definition:
Good (Old English) = holy or set apart
What This Means for You:
What looked like defeat was actually victory.
Jesus’ sacrifice made a way for redemption, forgiveness, and eternal life.
Scripture to Read: Matthew 27
Source:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/good-friday
Holy Saturday: The Day of Waiting
The Insight:
Holy Saturday is often called the “silent day.” It represents the time Jesus’ body was in the tomb. In many traditions, no major services are held during the day, symbolizing stillness and waiting.
There is also a historical belief called the “Harrowing of Hell”, which refers to Jesus descending to the realm of the dead.
Simple Definition:
Harrowing = to enter and overcome (in this context, victory over death)
What This Means for You:
Even when it feels like nothing is happening, God is still working.
This day reminds us that waiting is part of the process before breakthrough.
Scripture to Read: Matthew 27:57–66
Source:
https://nowthatimcatholic.com/2023/04/08/an-ancient-homily-on-holy-saturday/
https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/holy-week-and-easter/holy-saturd
Resurrection Sunday: The Victory That Changed Everything
The Insight:
Resurrection Sunday (often called Easter Sunday) celebrates the moment Jesus rose from the dead. After the silence of Saturday, the empty tomb changed everything.
Jesus didn’t just die, He conquered death.
Simple Definition:
Resurrection = being raised from the dead to life again
What This Means for You:
This is not just a historical moment, it’s a promise. What looked like the end was actually the beginning. What felt like loss became eternal victory.
Because Jesus lives, we have:
- hope in difficult seasons
- freedom from sin
- the promise of eternal life
Scripture to Read: Matthew 28:1–10
Source:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Easter-holiday
How to Study Holy Week for Yourself
If you want to go deeper, the most powerful thing you can do is read the full account of Holy Week directly in the Bible:
Take your time. Don’t rush it.
Read a little each day and reflect on what stands out to you.
A Simple Tool to Help You Stay Consistent
If you’ve ever struggled with knowing what to write down or how to study Scripture, having a structured guide can make a big difference.
Our Bible study worksheets are designed to help you:
- stay focused while reading
- understand Scripture more clearly
- reflect and apply what you’ve learned
- build a consistent study habit
You can explore our full collection here: https://www.abidingwithintent.com/collections/devotionals
These tools help you study Scripture with structure, reflect more deeply, and grow spiritually through intentional study.
To Sum It Up! From Reflection to Resurrection
Holy Week isn't just about remembering what happened. It's about carrying the weight of what it means, even now. Palm Sunday reminds us Jesus came in peace. Wednesday reminds us to stay faithful. Thursday calls us to love and serve. Friday reveals the depth of His sacrifice. Saturday teaches us to trust in the waiting. And Sunday declares the victory. Hope wins. Death is defeated. He is alive.
Quick Holy Week FAQs
What is the meaning of Holy Week?
Holy Week commemorates the final days of Jesus’ life, including His crucifixion and resurrection.
Why is Holy Week important for Christians?
It represents the foundation of the Christian faith. Jesus’ sacrifice and victory over death.
What should I read during Holy Week?
Read Matthew 21–28, Mark 11–16, Luke 19–24, and John 12–20 for the full account.
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