Why Holy Week Is a Life-Changing Journey 🌿| The Messiah's Mule

Holy Week is here—the most sacred and significant week in the history of the world. For centuries, it has marked a time of reflection, transformation, and celebration of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and victory over sin and death. But here's the profound truth: Holy Week is not just an ancient story; it’s a living, breathing journey that changes lives even today. 🌟

The Power of Holy Week: A Week of Expectation

There’s something extraordinary about this week. As shared during the service at City Church Rockford, the Holy Spirit confirmed multiple times that this Holy Week would be one of the most significant in the church’s history. What does that mean? We may not fully know yet, but it fills us with expectation for how God will move in and through us. 😊

At its heart, Holy Week invites us to celebrate Jesus’ victory over the world, flesh, and the devil. It’s a chance to reflect on how His hardest-fought battle—the cross—has given us the freedom to live lives that glorify God. This week, as we honor and embrace the themes of redemption, holiness, and transformation, we are reminded of how deeply loved and pursued we are by Him.

The Prophetic Significance of the Feasts

To understand the full weight of Holy Week, we must look back at the feasts celebrated in the Old Testament. These feasts, outlined in Leviticus 23, symbolized God’s redemptive plan for humanity. The three spring feasts—Passover, Unleavened Bread, and First Fruits—foretold the story of Jesus’ ultimate fulfillment of these events:

• 🌟 Passover: The lamb’s blood that set Israel free from Egypt foreshadows the sacrifice of Jesus, our Passover Lamb, who set us free from sin.

• 🌟 Unleavened Bread: Removing yeast symbolizes removing sin from our lives through Christ.

• 🌟 First Fruits: Celebrating the first harvest reminds us of Jesus as the first to rise from the dead, leading us into new life.

As 1 Corinthians 5:7 affirms: “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” These feasts not only pointed to Christ but also find their ultimate fulfillment in us, the church, as we live out their meaning in holiness and sincerity.

Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry of Jesus

Palm Sunday marks the kickoff of Holy Week with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This was no ordinary procession; it was a moment where history overlapped itself. Pilgrims gathered to celebrate the feasts without realizing that the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world, was among them. What a profound and strategic moment in history!

Jesus entered Jerusalem humbly, riding not one but two donkeys—a detail often overlooked but rich in symbolism. The older donkey represented the Old Covenant and the law—an external system that could not fully redeem humanity. The colt, which had never been ridden, symbolized the New Covenant: a transformative, internal work of grace through Jesus. As He transitioned from one to the other, He declared the arrival of a new era, fulfilling a prophecy spoken over 1,500 years earlier in Genesis 49.

The Messiah's Mule: A Call to Humility and Service

Jesus’ decision to ride a donkey wasn’t accidental. It reflects His servant-hearted mission. This choice has inspired the term “Messiah’s Mule,” which refers to someone who embraces a humble, servant-like attitude to do the work of God. Jesus, the King of all creation, lowered Himself to fight for the souls of humanity, redeeming us with His blood. 💔

When we see Jesus’ humility, we are challenged to follow His example. Are we willing to be “Messianic mules,” leveraging our lives, resources, and gifts to serve others and further His kingdom? True greatness, after all, is found at the bottom of the pile—serving with love and purpose.

A Word for Those Needing a Second Chance

Holy Week is also a time for restoration. Maybe you’ve felt like you’ve blown it too many times or gone too far from God. Here’s the good news: God is the God of second chances. Like the father in the story of the prodigal son, God runs to us with open arms, ready to restore us, forgive us, and shower us with grace. His love has no limits, and He has already paid for your redemption in full. All you have to do is come to Him. 🙏

Becoming Part of God’s Story

As we celebrate this Holy Week, let’s reflect on how Jesus’ triumphal entry and ultimate sacrifice transform our lives. Let’s embrace our role in this redemptive story by living as humble servants, boldly sharing His love, and trusting in His grace.

To those who feel the tug of the Spirit, take this moment to say, “Father, I come to You.” Whether it’s your first time or a return after wandering, God’s arms are open wide, ready to give you peace, hope, and a new beginning.

Conclusion: The Journey Continues

Holy Week is more than a remembrance; it’s an invitation to live in the reality of Jesus’ victory every single day. As we journey through this sacred week, let’s celebrate, serve, and surrender anew to the One who gave everything for us. Let’s be “Messianic mules,” carrying His message of hope and reconciliation to a world in need. 🌎

What does Holy Week mean to you? How can you live out its significance in your life this week? Reflect, pray, and take a step closer to the heart of God. You are part of His incredible story. 😊