Our Hearts Burn Within UsSample

Seek God's Face

Holy Week offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry. For the people of his time, that final week before the resurrection parallels our experiences of the hustle and bustle of preparing for a major holiday and its mixed emotions. Some feel the weight of depression or battle anxiety, seeking relief through alcohol or over-indulgence. Many are awestruck by the Temple’s beauty and the festivities of this momentous time. Some are joyfully excited at Jesus’ presence, while others plot in fear because of Him.

Amidst all this, Jesus focuses on people. So many are consumed by temporary distractions, losing sight of the eternal—the true foundation for meaning and life. Jesus reminds them that even heaven and earth will pass away, but his words never will. His word for them? “Be vigilant, watching for My return.” Jesus understands our tendency to be sidetracked by emotions and the fleeting things of the world, but He wants everyone to be ready for his return. So, every day, Jesus teaches in the Temple, and the people, their hearts burning with anticipation, come to him early.

Today, Jesus is still teaching. Come! The people sought Him early; let us do the same. Holy Week reveals our profound need for Jesus. We have all sinned, separating ourselves from God (lying, stealing, lusting, prioritizing things above God), yet His response is one of love. He willingly suffered and died for our sin, then rose from the dead to offer forgiveness to all who genuinely repent and follow Him.

Temptations arise to distract us from Jesus and his Kingdom. Jesus urges us to stay awake so His coming will not catch us off guard. How? Pray for strength. As we do, the Holy Spirit empowers us and reminds us of God's presence and our reliance on Jesus—not just for forgiveness but to live the life He intends for us, free from distractions and misplaced affections.

Holy Week is a time to renew our focus, affection, and gratitude for Jesus and His word. He is trustworthy, He is for you, and He suffered and died so we can truly live. His word will never pass away. Let us seek God’s face in his word. As we do, the Spirit accompanies us, Jesus meets us there, and His eventual coming will not be a trap but unimaginable joy.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are truth. Your words are spirit, and they are life. Thank you for your unwavering devotion to guide me in truth with words that endure forever. Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, I implore you for strength—strength to remain faithful, focused on you and the eternal, while remaining vigilant for your coming Kingdom. Come Holy Spirit, enflame my heart with the zeal of the Lord that I may seek Jesus ever more fervently and so be ready for his magnificent return. For your glory and my good. Amen.