Every person who loves Christ now tries his or her best to remain close to the suffering Savior during the last hours of his earthly life. The liturgy places us directly in the midst of the recorded events and expects us to participate. During these next days, therefore, we will traverse each road with Jesus.

Yesterday (Friday) He came with His disciples from the desert village of Ephrem to Jericho. When near the Jordan, we hear from His lips the third prophecy of the crucifixion. Then Salome approached with her two sons, James and John, and begged important positions for them in the coming kingdom. This gave Jesus the opportunity to proclaim His wonderful teaching on humility. We stand close and listen. (Matt. Chapter 20 Ver. 20)

The Lord enters Jericho. I am Zacheus, (the chief publican, the little man who wants to see the Messiah from a tree). He looks up and says, "This day has salvation come to my house. He stays two nights with me, a despised publican!"

Over the Sabbath Jesus remains in Jericho. The next day (Sunday) He starts for Jerusalem at the head of a lordly caravan. Along the road there sits a blind beggar. It is I, again. "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me! He heals my eyes, I see, I am enlightened!"

In procession, we pass through Jericho’s inhospitable ravines up to Jerusalem. Night intervenes and Jesus stops at Bethany. He is joyously welcomed by Martha and Mary. Am I an active Martha or a meditating Mary? Possible it was on this Sunday evening that the memorable meal took place when, with Lazarus present and Martha as hostess, Mary poured the costly ointment for Jesus’ burial. It was the act which estranged Judas completely from his Master.

In solemn procession on Monday afternoon, the King of Israel comes to the top of Olivet, weeps over Jerusalem, and then continues on to the temple. We feel ourselves part of this festive procession. Waving palms in our hands, we accompany our King and watch Him drive the money-changers out of His Father’s house. Tuesday morning He returns with His disciples and while crossing Mt. Olivet curses the unfruitful fig tree, a figure of the Jewish people. This barren tree is likewise a warning for us.

Verbal encounters with the Jews take place in the temple courtyard until Wednesday afternoon when Christ hurls His eightfold curse upon the Pharisees, and leaves the temple forever. With His disciples He proceeds to the Mt. of Olives and delivers His powerful discourse on the end of the world and destruction of Jerusalem. Present in spirit, we hear this sermon and take to heart His final admonition, "Be vigilant!" Meanwhile, Judas has left the circle of disciples and offers his assistance to the chief priests.

Thursday morning, Christ sends Peter and John from Bethany into the city to make the needed preparation for the Passover meal. As evening falls, He bids farewell to His mother and His friends and goes with His apostles to the Upper Room in Jerusalem for His "Last Supper" with them.

In mind and in heart, we follow Our Lord closely during these sacred days of Holy Week.