What is Holy Week? A Guide for Understanding the Week of Easter

Holy Week is the events that took place between Palm Sunday and Resurrection Sunday—and it’s more than just the Easter story, it’s a journey we can go on reveling the love of God! A week that invites us to walk with Jesus day by day, from His entry into Jerusalem all the way to the empty tomb. If you're new to following Jesus, this is one of the most powerful times to pause, reflect, and experience the depth of God’s love for humanity.

Because here’s the truth: the resurrection didn’t just change history—it redefined eternity.
And every moment leading up to it reveals just how much God values a relationship with you. The more we learn about how much God loves us, the easier it gets to trust and surrender to His Kingdom call on our life today.

Let’s break down Holy Week day by day, with a key verse and a reflection to guide your heart.

Palm Sunday – The King Arrives (Matthew 21:9)

“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Jesus enters Jerusalem riding a donkey, and the crowds shout “Hosanna,” recognizing Him as King. But it’s a different kind of kingdom—one not built on power, but peace.

• God values humility and proximity. Jesus didn’t stay distant—He came close, approachable, and full of grace.
• Reflection: Jesus came into the city knowing what awaited Him. That’s love. That’s pursuit. He came for you.

Monday – Righteous Anger & Cleansing the Temple (Matthew 21:12-13)

“My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers.”

Jesus cleanses the temple, not out of rage, but out of righteous zeal for God's house and God’s people.

• God values authentic worship and justice. He’s passionate about removing anything that gets in the way of connection with Him.
• Reflection: What tables in your life need flipping so you can draw closer to God?

Tuesday – Teaching & Confrontation (Matthew 22:37-40)

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart... Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Jesus spends the day teaching in the temple, confronting religious leaders, and clarifying what matters most—love.

• God values truth spoken in love. Jesus wasn't afraid to challenge the status quo if it meant more people could see God clearly.
• Reflection: Jesus cares deeply about how we live. Love isn't optional; it's essential.

Wednesday – Silent Surrender (Matthew 26:14-16)

“Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests...”

Wednesday is quiet in the Gospel accounts, but behind the scenes, Judas plots to betray Jesus.

• God values free will. Even betrayal couldn’t stop God’s redemptive plan.
• Reflection: Jesus knew betrayal would come, yet He still chose to love. That’s the kind of love He offers you.

Maundy Thursday – The Last Supper & Servant Leadership (Luke 22:19-20)

“This is my body given for you... This cup is the new covenant in my blood...”

Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples, washes their feet, and introduces communion.

• God values communion and covenant. He initiates relationship and invites us to remember His love often.
• Reflection: Jesus served before He sacrificed. In your relationships, are you imitating His love?

Good Friday – The Cross (John 19:30)

“It is finished.”

Jesus is arrested, tried unjustly, and crucified. The sky goes dark. The veil is torn. The debt is paid.

• God values sacrificial love. He gave everything to restore what sin broke.
• Reflection: The cross proves how far God is willing to go for you. Let that truth silence every lie of unworthiness.

Silent Saturday – The Silence of Waiting (Matthew 27:59-60)

“Joseph took the body... and placed it in his own new tomb.”

Jesus’ body rests in the tomb. It’s the day of waiting, grieving, and wondering if hope is gone.

• God values process and trust. Even in silence, God is still working.
• Reflection: In the waiting seasons of life, we learn to trust that God writes the final chapter.

Resurrection Sunday – He Is Risen! (Matthew 28:6)

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said!”

The grave is empty. Death is defeated. Jesus is alive—and so is our hope.

• God values victory through relationship. The resurrection proves that nothing can separate us from His love.
• Reflection: The resurrection isn’t just good news. It’s personal news. Because Jesus rose, you can live fully alive.

So what does this reveal to us today?

• Holy Week is more than a ritual—it’s an invitation to go on journey of KNOWING GOD more.
• Each day reveals God’s heart: He values people. He values you.
• He didn’t send a prophet, a message, or a sign. He came Himself.

So this week, slow down. Reflect. Remember that everything Jesus did, He did to restore the relationship between heaven and humanity.

“For God so loved the world...” (John 3:16)

Watch Pastor Loras Palm Sunday Message: ["The Long Game"]

Looking for a church in Austin or searching for “churches near me”? Come experience the hope of the resurrection at Dreamer’s Church this Sunday. Bring a friend. Someone who needs new life. Because Easter changes everything.