This is Holy Week. Jesus knows his time on earth is ending, and throughout his three-year ministry, he left behind amazing examples of his unconditional love. Two stories in particular come to mind: the story of the Samaritan woman and the raising of Lazarus from the dead. His encounter with the Samaritan woman shows the world that he has come for all people, not just the ones to whom he was sent. She can’t understand why Jesus would bother with her because she’s not his kind…the disciples can’t understand why Jesus would bother with her because she’s not their kind. They talk past each other…and finally, he reveals himself to the woman, and she becomes an evangelist…simply because Jesus shows her who he is…the Messiah.

And Jesus’ final miracle is raising Lazarus from the dead. The story plays out much like the other: a few are believers, some are looking for what…they don’t know, others are anxious for what might come next…and almost no one—still—knows with whom they are dealing: Jesus, the Christ, the Son of God.

Both miracles were designed to show God’s love and power, yet Jesus was still nailed to a cross. But we know he went to the cross willingly…out of love for us so that we might live forever with him in heaven.

On these last days of Lent, thank Jesus for giving up his life so that you might live. And may you rejoice with him on Easter Sunday!