28/03/2024
“Journey of Faith: Holy Week’s Reflection”
Within a charming village, the month of Holy Week is commemorated through a sequence of meaningful events, each holding its own importance. A young girl by the name, Angela, steps into the sacred church where devout worshipers assemble in anticipation of the upcoming holy days, showing deep respect and dedication. The week began on Palms Sunday, a day filled with exultation and hopes within the townspeople. Angela embarked on a small venture to sell newspapers but became captivated by the parade taking place on the street. She watched the enthusiastic crowds holding and waving palm branches, symbolizing the remembrance of Jesus's triumphal arrival in Jerusalem. She looked on in wonder, climbing onto a chair to get a better view and taking in the chants of the townspeople with fascination. She observed as children laughed and danced along with palm branches in their grasp, as elders smiled, reminiscing their youthful exuberance of the same phenomenon. Angela tip-toed cautiously as the chair wobbled, causing her to start losing her balance gradually.
Fortunately, a man quickly reached out to stabilize the chair just in time, prompting the young girl to express her gratitude. The man who was somehow in his late 80s wore a gentle smile as he spoke to the little girl perched precariously atop the chair. "You must be careful, child." he advised, his voice carrying a soothing tone that seemed to echo through the rustling space. Despite his age, his eyes sparkled with a youthful warmth, conveying both wisdom and kindness as he offered his
gentle counsel. "Why are people waving those trees?" The little girl inquired, bewildered by the crowd's branches as they waved it in the air. "Ah, you mean the Palm branches, dear," The old man replied in a soft voice, his words carrying a gentle wisdom. "The palm tree holds a significant symbolism, representing victory in ancient times. It is to commemorate the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem." Gazing at the little girl, the old man's face softened into a gentle, soothing smile. He did not respond once more, yet departed in silence, leaving the girl feeling disoriented. As the week progressed, the mood shifted to solemnity and reflection on Maundy Thursday. While helping her mother with dinner preparations for the family, Angela's sibling inquired, "What is Maundy Thursday?" Pausing from setting the table, their mother smiled gently. "It's a day dedicated to remembering Jesus Christ's Last Supper with his disciples before his crucifixion." The mother explained, emphasizing the values of being a leader requires humility, selflessness, and serving others. A moment of quiet reflection filled the room, as the mother continued by telling the story of how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. By washing their feet, he set an example, that they should do what he has done to them. While the mother recounted the tale, Angela lowered her head and proceeded to clean the table with a wet cloth, all the while engrossed in the story. As she narrated, her siblings were engaged in a playful fight, each trying to grab the other's toy, the mother continued, retrieving the toy from them, "And on that day, Jesus gave them a new commandment: to love one another as he had loved them." The two kids lowered their heads in dismay. "So, you must love one another
As the Holy Week neared its conclusion, Good Friday arrived, and Angela's family went to church to observe and remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a pivotal event symbolizing his suffering and death on the cross. Angela observed the place in solitude and saw a woman in tears. Maria, a devout woman renowned for her unwavering commitment, traversed the path with tear-filled eyes, sensing the gravity of sacrifice and redemption of their Lord Father. Angela simply watched in silence and sorrow for the woman's silent cries, and the mourning's of the townspeople's dreadful tears. Holy Saturday arrived, cloaked in anticipation and quiet contemplation. The church stood in solemn silence, as everyone draped in black, symbolizing the darkness before the dawn of
resurrection. Angela and her family spent the day in prayer and meditation, seeking spiritual
renewal and a deeper connection with her beliefs. Angela inquired her mother, "What's the purpose of this day?" Her mother smiled. "It is a solemn day when Christians await the joyous celebration of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus."
As Holy Week approached its end, Easter Sunday dawned. The ringing church bells echoed joyously, heralding the victory of life over death. Angela's family gathered at a location to witness the sunrise and commemorate Jesus' resurrection. The younger siblings grew increasingly excited,
exclaiming, "I can't wait to see the sunrise!" "Me too! Me too!" Their innocence cascading. While
they awaited the sunrise, Angela settled onto the floor, mesmerized by the gradual ascent of the sun’s horizon as it unfolded before her. Her features were illuminated by the glowing ray of light as cheers among the townspeople filled the air, celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Angela reflected on the transformative journey she had embarked upon. As each event, from Palm Sunday's exuberance to Easter Sunday's resurrection, had left an indelible mark on her soul. She resolved to carry the spirit of Holy Week with her throughout the years to pass, living out its
teachings of love, sacrifice, and redemption in her daily life.
🖌️: Dejaro, Justine and Letran, John Paul
✍️: Borja, Kirlyn Alexis
