The Preparation for the Passion refers to the events and teachings of Jesus Christ leading up to His crucifixion, a central theme in the New Testament. This period is marked by Jesus' intentional actions and profound teachings that prepared His disciples and followers for the impending events of His suffering, death, and resurrection.

Prophecies and Predictions

Throughout His ministry, Jesus foretold His suffering and death, preparing His disciples for what was to come. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus explicitly predicts His Passion: "From that time on Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and that He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life" (Matthew 16:21). This prediction is repeated in the Synoptic Gospels, emphasizing its significance in Jesus' mission.

The Anointing at Bethany

A significant event in the preparation for the Passion is the anointing of Jesus at Bethany. In Matthew 26:6-13, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, an act that Jesus interprets as preparation for His burial: "When she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial" (Matthew 26:12). This act of devotion underscores the impending reality of His death and serves as a poignant reminder of His sacrificial role.

The Last Supper

The Last Supper is a pivotal moment in the preparation for the Passion. During this meal, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, offering bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood, which would be given for the forgiveness of sins. In Luke 22:19-20, Jesus says, "This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me... This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you" . This covenantal act foreshadows His sacrificial death and establishes a lasting ordinance for His followers.

The Garden of Gethsemane

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus experiences deep anguish as He prays to the Father, preparing Himself spiritually for the suffering He is about to endure. In Matthew 26:39, Jesus prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" . This moment of submission highlights His obedience to the Father's will and His readiness to fulfill His redemptive mission.

Betrayal and Arrest

The betrayal by Judas Iscariot and the subsequent arrest of Jesus mark the beginning of His Passion. In John 18:2-3, Judas leads a detachment of soldiers to Jesus, setting in motion the events that would lead to His crucifixion. This act of betrayal fulfills the Scriptures and demonstrates the unfolding of God's salvific plan.

Teachings on Servanthood and Sacrifice

Leading up to His Passion, Jesus emphasizes themes of servanthood and sacrifice. In Mark 10:45, He declares, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many" . This teaching prepares His disciples to understand the nature of His mission and the call to follow His example of selfless love.

The Triumphal Entry

The triumphal entry into Jerusalem, celebrated on Palm Sunday, is a significant event in the preparation for the Passion. Jesus enters the city riding on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 and symbolizing His role as the humble Messiah. The crowds acclaim Him with shouts of "Hosanna," recognizing Him as the promised King, yet unaware of the suffering He would soon endure.

Conclusion

The preparation for the Passion is a profound period in the life of Jesus, marked by His teachings, actions, and fulfillment of prophecy. Through these events, Jesus prepares His followers for the redemptive work He is about to accomplish, offering a model of obedience, sacrifice, and love that continues to inspire believers today.