Holy Week 2024: A Test of Faith and a Call for Forgiveness
This Holy Week, a moment of spiritual reflection clashes with a family challenge. Reflecting on the power of Jesus' sacrifice and the fight against temptation during Holy Week 20
3/29/20241 min read
Holy Week 2024 has been a powerful mix of spiritual renewal and personal challenges. It began beautifully, with my wife and I attending confession, feeling a sense of peace and cleansing. However, a shadow seemed to loom, a whisper that this day wouldn't be entirely serene.
This is where faith often intersects with family dynamics. My wife's niece, someone I've observed exhibiting questionable behavior, was spending Holy Thursday night outside our house, drinking with friends and disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. Their boisterous laughter late into the night, especially on such a holy occasion, tested my patience, as I typically wake up early to walk our (not even mine!) five dogs.
While my wife attempted to reason with her niece, the situation escalated my anger. As I was about to confront them, I noticed them leaving. This pause gave me a chance to reflect. Here I was, on Holy Thursday, a day commemorating the start of Jesus' sacrifice for humanity, succumbing to anger.
Could this be the work of Satan, furious at the impending triumph of good over evil? Holy Week reminds us that during this time 2,000 years ago, Jesus' betrayal and crucifixion marked the beginning of his ultimate victory. Satan, in his rage, must have tried his best to disrupt those observing this holy period. Sadly, for a moment, I became susceptible to his influence.
Holy Week 2024 serves as a powerful reminder: the path to salvation involves not just faith, but also self-reflection and forgiveness. While external circumstances can test our patience, it's crucial to remember the true meaning of this sacred week – Jesus' sacrifice and the importance of overcoming anger and negativity. This experience has become a call for me to work on managing my anger and responding with grace, even in trying situations.
This Holy Week, let's focus on the core message of Jesus' sacrifice – love, forgiveness, and the triumph of good over evil. Let us all strive to overcome our personal demons and embrace the peace and renewal that this sacred time offers.