Historic calendars and liturgies have provided Scripture readings and prayers for observing Holy Week, the week between Palm Sunday and Easter morning. Although every congregation is not able to offer public worship every day, hymnals and prayer books have preserved much of ancient Christian tradition for observing the week. There is a variety of readings and prayers from which to choose, and the Gospel accounts of Christ's Passion are central. Keeping our focus on Scripture and this great worship heritage reduces the likelihood of weird, extravagant, or inappropriate observances.
Furthermore, the Reformation modified the old traditions to make them more Christ-centered. Focused on Scripture, we can respect the experiences of Christ's mother without focusing our devotion on her. We can contemplate the way of the Cross without depending on medieval legends. We can honor the Cross without letting extreme sentimentality or superstitious practices dominate. Thanks be to God for such a Gospel-centered heritage!
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