Everything that happens during this week points to the crucifixion. We see Jesus move with his disciples through this week as he prepares the for his leaving. We witness his interactions, hear him make commands, offer encouragement as well as warning.
Below are the daily readings for this week along with some prayers provided by the Book of Daily prayer. I invite you to set aside some time for prayer and reflection this week as we move together toward the cross. If you have friends or family together, perhaps this would be good to do together. The gospel reading is written in separate voices so you can hear the exchange like the conversation it was. However you chose to engage these prayers and scriptures, I pray they offer you insight and wisdom as you move with Jesus to the cross.
Monday of Holy Week
OPENING SENTENCES
From the rising of the sun to its setting let the name of the Lord be praised.
PSALM READING Psalm 36:5-11
OLD TESTAMENT Isaiah 42:1-9
EPISTLE READING Hebrews 9:11-15
GOSPEL READING John 12:1-11
Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 2 There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. 3 Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, 5 ‘Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?’ 6 (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) 7 Jesus said, ‘Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. 8 You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.’
The Plot to Kill Lazarus
9 When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, 11 since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus.
THANKSGIVING AND INTERCESSION
I will call upon God, and the Lord will answer me.
Evening, morning, and at noon I offer my prayers, and the Lord will hear my voice.
(Prayers of thanksgiving and intercession are offered)
Blessed Savior, at this hour you hung upon the cross, stretching out your loving arms.
Grant that all the peoples of the earth may be drawn to your redeeming love; for your kingdom’s sake. Amen.
LORD’S PRAYER
BLESSING
May we continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Amen. Bless the Lord. The Lord’s name be praised.