What the World and the Church See During Holy Week

The events of Holy Week were evident for all Jerusalem to see; the entry into Jerusalem, the casting out of the money changers, the trial, and the crucifixion.  That is, up until Easter morning.  Everything up to Sunday morning were very public events.  Sunday morning was an event witnessed only by a few; those who were closest to Jesus

There is a metaphor here.  The world and the covenant community, the Church, both see the events of Holy Week leading up to Easter morning.  But because the Church encounters the risen Christ, the meaning of the events of Holy Week are transformed.  The world saw death, defeat, and humiliation.  The Church, knowing the reality of the resurrection sees Holy Week in this new light.  Christ's death is perceived in light of Christ's willingness to sacrifice for the world.  Christ's defeat is transformed into an awareness of our victory over sin.

The Church lives in the same world as Jerusalem.  But it has encountered the risen Christ and sees that same world through new eyes