The last two weeks of Lent are known as Passiontide. During this time, Jesus experienced many momentous events, including:
- His visit with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus in Bethany.
- Entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday while riding on a young donkey.
- Teaching daily in the Temple until He was arrested.
- His crucifixion.
Through these events, we become aware of Jesus' incredible love for us. He not only endured physical torture, but also fought the spiritual battle against evil. As we contemplate the final weeks of Jesus' life, we experience many different emotions.
- We are filled with love because He first loved us.
- We are filled with compassion for the suffering which He endured for us.
- We are filled with repentance, knowing that we “fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) yet He still calls us in love.
- We are filled with reverence for Jesus, as Christ, our Saviour.
This leads us to our 2025 motto,
“It’s Time to do Good!” Jesus’ compassion and miracles touched all people, including the rich and poor, the Jews, the Samaritans, the Romans, and others. He even prayed for the forgiveness of those who crucified Him. However, His focus was not to impress people with miracles, but to provide the way to eternal life:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6)
As we journey through the two weeks of Passiontide, we are given a twofold calling. First, we are asked to give time and thought to our relationship with Christ, acknowledging His love for us and how it impacts our lives today and for all eternity. Second, we are called to show His love to others, that they may also be touched by His sacrifice and feel His love in their lives.