INTRODUCTION
Our Christian beliefs are not just philosophical, abstract ideas. Our beliefs are grounded in history, events that happened in a place and time. That history largely began with the Patriarchs and continued through the life of Jesus in a place we call the “Holy Land.” There Jesus was born of a virgin, visited the Temple as a boy, and grew to be a man. There He walked, leaving footprints for us to follow. There He taught profound truths recorded in the Bible. And there He healed the physically and spiritually needy, leaving behind amazed, grateful believers.
What places did Jesus go during Passion Week, the final week of His ministry, leading up to His death on the cross and resurrection. Reflecting on these places and the people He engaged at each place can make the Easter story come alive. What did these places mean to Him, and what did He do at each one? Whom did He meet there? Friends? Unbelievers? Crowd followers? Enemies? What made Him angry? If you had been there, where would you have been in this story? Think about some of these questions as you read.
On the way to Jerusalem in Jesus’ last week, He and His disciples ate dinner in Bethany at the home of Simon the leper. His close friends Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (whom He had raised from the dead) were present. Martha served, and Mary anointed Jesus’ feet. There Jesus received hospitality and enjoyed fellowship. Here Jesus clearly told His disciples what would happen soon. Read about this visit in John 12:1-8.
Footsteps of Jesus
By Mary Bridges Canady Slade USA 1826-1882
Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling, “Come, follow Me!”
And we see where Thy footprints falling, lead us to Thee. [Refrain]
Though they lead o’er the cold dark mountains, seeking His sheep,
or along by Siloam’s fountains, helping the weak. [Refrain]
If they lead through the temple holy, preaching the Word,
or in homes of the poor and lowly, serving the Lord. [Refrain]
Then at last, when on high He sees us, our journey done,
we will rest where the steps of Jesus end at His throne. [Refrain]
Refrain:
Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow;
we will follow the steps of Jesus where’er they go.