THE WOMEN

Jesus’ journey to crucifixion is one of the most emotive events in the Bible. It’s the culmination of all we’ve read so far, and the fulfilment of what was prophesied long before He was born. 

One thing I find intriguing about Jesus’ journey is that He didn’t do it alone. Two years ago, I was in Jerusalem just before Easter. We toured the streets Jesus walked, visited the Garden of Gethsemane and saw where each of the Stations of the Cross is believed to have taken place. 

Beginning in the Garden, Jesus was with His disciples. They were His (sleepy) point guards as He prayed to God, wondering whether this cup could pass Him by. Then as Jesus was taken from the Garden to Pontius Pilate and ultimately to Golgotha, He had people by His side – praying, weeping, following and cursing. 

The streets in Jerusalem where Jesus walked are right in the centre of the city. Markets line the passageway, and I can only imagine in Jesus’ day all the stalls and workshops He passed by. 

Jesus’ greatest moment of pain wasn’t hidden from anyone. The shame His accusers thought they were heaping on Him by showcasing His trial only further publicised His act of sacrifice and fueled the fire of hope and sorrow in His followers.

I think we can all be encouraged that Jesus didn’t hide His worst moment from anyone. Certainly there was intention behind the spectacle made of Jesus, but He didn’t reject anyone who grieved over Him or traced His steps. 

What’s more inviting than a God who takes us into His triumph as well as His trial?

written by LAURA BENNETT