Today, in the Armenian Church calendar, is called Red Sunday. We are reminded of the profound symbolism of red – the color of the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, spilled for our salvation, and the blood of countless martyrs who have laid down their lives in the faith of our Savior. This red speaks to us of sacrifice, of courage, and of the unwavering love of God.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells us, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). On this Red Sunday, we reflect deeply on these words. Our Lord Jesus did not only speak of great love; He showed us the greatest love through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. His blood was shed not out of obligation, nor out of defeat, but out of a boundless love for all of humanity—each and every one of us.
Just as the red today symbolizes this monumental sacrifice, it also calls us to recognize the sacrifices made by our martyrs. These were men and women who did not waver when faced with the prospect of death because they believed profoundly in the resurrection power of Jesus. They knew that though their bodies could be destroyed, their spirits were secure, forever held in the loving arms of God.
Living sacrificially doesn’t always mean dying for one’s beliefs. More often, it means living for them. It involves making daily choices that reflect our commitment to God and to others. It might look like giving up a little bit of comfort to help those who are less fortunate. It might mean speaking truth in love, even when it is not popular. It is about making justice, mercy, and humility the cornerstones of our lives (Micah 6:8).
So, let this Red Sunday remind us of the blood shed for us and the vibrant spirit of love that it represents. Let it inspire us to live boldly and sacrificially, as our Savior and many brothers and sisters have done before us. Let the color red ignite in our hearts a fire that pushes us forward to love without limits, serve without hesitation, and give without counting the cost.
