Walking with Jesus Through Holy Week | The Rev. Susan Astarita

Mother Susan invites listeners to “walk with Jesus” through Holy Week, drawing on John’s Gospel and the spiritual “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me.” Reflecting on the passion narrative written decades after Jesus’ death, she emphasizes that the crucifixion was not a surprise but the completion of Jesus’ steadfast mission amid the clash between Roman violent power and a covenant of love. She recounts Jesus’ purposeful entry into Jerusalem alongside Pilate’s intimidating military display, Jesus’ arrest and abuse, and Pilate’s role in the death sentence. Citing “God so loved the world” and Jesus’ words “It is finished,” she presents the cross as a paradox: a horrific death that becomes a sign of God’s overflowing love, reconciliation, forgiveness, and the opening to eternal life, urging silent vigil on Holy Saturday and reflection on how to live this gift.00:00 Opening Prayer00:32 Choosing Jesus to Walk With01:28 John’s Passion Lens03:13 Jesus’ Mission and Purpose04:40 Palm Sunday Clash of Powers07:01 Arrest and Pilate’s Trial08:37 The Cross and It Is Finished10:39 Paradox of the Cross11:35 Holy Saturday Silence11:58 What Will We Do