WEDNESDAY • APRIL 13
The last week of Lent is called Holy Week. During this week, we focus on the events of Jesus’ last days on Earth. This week’s readings will be the descriptions of the Crucifixion given by each Gospel writer. We focus on these particular passages not to wallow in the pain and suffering but to humbly acknowledge the lengths to which Jesus went for every one of us. This act of love and grace enables us to be reconciled to the God who loves us enough to sacrifice His own Son on our behalf.
Scriptures for this week:
Matthew 27:45-56, Mark 15:33-41, Luke 23:26-49, John 19:16-38
Death to Life
By: Carrie Koster (Preschool Coordinator)
In Jesus, we have hope that the process of dying and letting go is the first step into incredible new things from God. While reading this passage, it is clear that out of a heart full of trust and commitment to God, Jesus surrendered His life.
I cannot help but consider the seasons in my life where my hopes, dreams, and expectations needed to be surrendered fully to the Lord. Surrendering your hopes and dreams and dying to yourself can be painful, but there is always hope for a new life in Jesus. Jesus taught us in the Word that dying to yourself is essential for new life to come forth.
John 12:24 says, “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” Once we let go and surrender our lives and expectations to the Lord, we allow Him to bring us into new things that are exceedingly more than we can ask or imagine.
Questions for Reflection:
Think: In what ways did Jesus’ death bring about good things in the Bible and our world? How does Jesus’ death offer you hope for a better future?
Pray: Take a moment today to thank the Lord that because of Jesus, there is always hope for new life and new beginnings, no matter how dark the circumstances. Thank Him for specific ways this truth has been evident in your life.
Respond: Are there things in your life in this season that you need to let go of so that God can do something new? If you think of something, recruit a friend, family member, or small group member to pray for you as you seek to surrender it to the Lord and wait with open arms for what He has in store for you.