the
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L E N T D E V O T I O N A L 2 018
LENT
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HP PRES
February 14
ASH WEDNESDAY 12 & 6:30 PM sanctuary Imposition of ashes offered at both services
March 25
PALM SUNDAY 8:15 AM wynne chapel 9:30 & 11 AM sanctuary 11 AM elliott hall 11 AM all nations, gym
March 29
MAUNDY THURSDAY 12 & 7 PM sanctuary
March 30
GOOD FRIDAY 12 PM sanctuary The Chancel Choir and Orchestra commemorate the final moments of Jesus’s life through music with Michael John Trotta’s Seven Last Words.
April 1
EASTER SUNDAY 6:30 AM sunrise, goar park 8, 9:30, 11 AM sanctuary 11 AM hall worship, elliott hall 11 AM all nations, gym
HPPRES.ORG/LENT
the
CROSS
This cross is so familiar yet so foreign. It has become the background of everyday life as it adorns our homes, necks, and churches. It is a symbol for something and someone—Christian, salvation, Jesus. And as symbols become familiar, their meanings fade. To refamiliarize ourselves with this symbol, the cross, we are slowing down. We will pause and look more closely at one event on that Easter weekend over 2,000 years ago—the Crucifixion. Our pause will give us opportunity to look, consider, and reflect on that cross and the person who hung on it, because the only hope for the world hung on that cross. Good and evil battled, and an incomparable offering was made. Death seemed to reign for a moment, but God rules forever. As we grow in understanding of the Crucifixion, our understanding of the depth and length of God’s love will likewise move. We will be encouraged that even though Jesus was down, he was not out. He chose to go down in love, and we too follow his ways, choosing times in our life to surrender . We choose to know him, let go of power, and serve, so his love might go out to a world that desperately needs love.
Throughout this Lent Devotion Guide, you are invited to pause and look closely at your life, asking God to help you surrender to him so you and others might know his love. In Jesus, God goes before us, empowers us, and shows us how to be down but not out. As you study, read, reflect, pray, and trust, may the cross grow vivid, as the person of Jesus does, that you might share his love. Looking to the cross with you, Laura Murray Pastor of Spiritual Formation Sterling White Director of 5th & 6th Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. Hebrews 12:1–3
TABLE
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CONTENTS
THE HUMILIATION OF GOD
John 18:33–19:6
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THE LOVE OF GOD 1 7
John 19:17–24
THE TRIAL OF GOD 2 7
John 18:28-32; 19:6–16
THE NEW FAMILY OF GOD 3 7
John 19:24b–27
THE DEATH OF GOD 47
John 19:28–30
THE WRATH OF GOD
John 3:16–19
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THE BURIAL OF GOD 6 7
John 19: 38–42
THE VICTORY OF GOD 77
John 21:1–9
USING THIS GUIDE The spiritual practices (disciplines) have long been part of the Christian faith. Throughout the generations, people have opened their lives to the transformation of the Holy Spirit. Today, we continue these practices, and make space in our lives to hear the voice of God and respond in faith. Below you will find the practices used throughout this guide. This list is an all-too-brief summary of each practice. We hope it will provide any needed aid as you walk through this guide.
HELPFUL TOOLS A timer to have handy for practices with time frames.
CONFESSION Confessing before God the ways we have gone against him in word, thought, and/or action. purpose Growing in the freedom of forgiveness and living more fully in God’s grace. practice Allowing God to show us our sin, acknowledging our sin in sorrow, confessing it to God, and receiving the reminder of his forgiveness through Jesus. LISTENING Listening for the voice of the Holy Spirit in your life.
A quiet space where you will not be interrupted to read and work through the Lent Devotional Guide.
purpose
A Bible—the great story of God and his love—is one of the most transformative tools for your spiritual life. If you do not have a Bible, please stop by the Welcome Center and we will gladly give you one!
practice
The version used in this guide is the English Standard Version. People to walk through this devotion guide with, whether a friend, your family, or your small group.
RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL READING Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices that Transform Us Adele Calhoun Celebration of Discipline Richard Foster The Crucifixion Fleming Rutledge
Hearing God speak truth into your life and being reminded of his truth. Quieting your mind and heart, as well as the noise around you, in order to listen. His voice comes through Scripture, a truth you have read, truths people have spoken to you, and any other good things that align with God’s Word. MEDITATION Looking more deeply at God’s Word and works. purpose Deepening God’s truth within us and increasing our ability to pay attention to God. practice Looking at and mulling over smaller portions of God’s Word for longer periods, filling our minds with God’s truth.
PRAYER Having a conversation with God. You will find various opportunities to write prayers throughout the devotion guide. Two types of prayer are highlighted below. Centering Prayer Being quiet and listening for the Spirit. purpose Re-directing your mind with God’s truth when it gets distracted so you can hear from God. practice Sitting in silence and recentering your mind when it begins to stray. Corporate Prayer Praying the same prayer together with others. purpose Strengthening our personal prayers by uniting with others in prayer. practice Praying a corporate written prayer, knowing that others throughout our church, country, and world are praying with us.
SOLITUDE & SILENCE Having quiet and uninterrupted space and time with God. purpose Creating a quiet and uninterrupted space with God, in order to be present to what God wants to say to us. Silence and solitude are “container practices” that create the environment needed to engage in other spiritual practices. practice Setting aside a time and space where you are alone and have turned off all noise and potential distractions (TV, music, cell phone notifications, etc.). STUDY Making observations from the Scripture text. purpose Transforming our minds through the study of God’s Word. practice Looking closely at a passage of Scripture, making observations in order to understand it, and reflecting on its impact on our life.
John 18:33–19:6
THE HUMILIATION OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E H U M I L I AT I O N OF G O D
WEEK ONE Wednesday, Feb. 14
DUST AND DESIGN Our vision of value is tainted by this world and our sin. We see ourselves according to the picture painted by others, rather than God’s perfect design. We live as if our life is worthier than the next person’s. We treat others as tools for our own means, disregarding that they too are image bearers of God. We are simultaneously more than and less than what we think of ourselves. As we waver back and forth between pride and self-debasement, we need a picture of both dust and design. Dust that we are human and design that we are image bearers of the One True God. practice Find a place of silence and solitude. During this time make a list under two columns: Dust and Design. Ask God about the places where you need to be reminded you are dust (humbled) and places you need to be reminded of his design (worthy). Through the Dust list, confess to God out loud the places of pride and arrogance where you have mistreated and disregarded others. Remember his words to you, “In Christ, you are forgiven.” Through the Design list, praise God out loud for the ways he has created you and gifted you to live out your purposes in this world. Also, praise God for the ways he has created others, naming people by name with gratitude. dust
design
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WEEK ONE Thursday, Feb. 15
ON BEING HUMAN Our humanity is limited and we often live with misperceived strength and power. We shun weakness and vulnerability. We ignore physical pains and emotional pressures. We deny the shaping of our minds in favor of the destructive patterns of our world. Where do you feel weak? Out of control? Where do you take more control than you should? Where is God asking you to surrender power and trust in him? practice Read John 18:33–40. In this passage, how do you see power at work? How do you see surrender at work? In silence and solitude, meditate for 10 minutes on the power and the surrender you find in this passage. Write down whatever the Holy Spirit has brought to the forefront. Write a prayer, asking God to give you the courage and strength to take any next steps he is calling you to.
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WEEK ONE Friday, Feb. 16
MOCKED MAN “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” The sticks, stones, whip, crown, cross, and nails never broke Jesus’s bones but the words hurt. Jesus stood before those he loved and came to save while receiving their mocking words. On par with the physical pain was the pain of abandonment, attack, mockery, and humiliation. There are so many around us who are in this type of pain and we have opportunities to love them. We regularly have the choice to stand up for the vulnerable and speak up on behalf of those whose voices will not be heard. Sometimes we have to stand alone, yet we know we must stand. practice Again, find time for silence and solitude. Read John 19:1–6 and consider if you have ever been on the receiving end of mockery. What was that like? How did you feel? How do you wish that event were different? Have you ever watched someone being mocked? Did you intervene? Did you stay quiet? How do you wish that event were different? Ask God to show you opportunities to stand on behalf of another. Ask him for the courage to speak up and sacrifice for the sake of another.
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WEEK ONE Saturday, Feb. 17
MOVE IN We attribute value to others through the words we use. We define, describe, and assign value through our words and actions. We hold onto stereotypes and even caricatures of people rather than moving in to know them. We keep it surface-level to keep ourselves safe. What would happen if we moved in toward the mocked man who would prove to be our salvation and life? What if we moved in toward others rather than keeping a safe distance? How would our movements of humility show the love of Jesus to this world?
Gracious God, there are so many people who hurt quietly and do not say a word: those who have been left when they needed a friend or a parent; those who long for friendships yet remain outcast. Father, help us see through the masks of happiness, and the walls of protection. May we respond when the Holy Spirit prompts us to care for someone, defend people, and speak up for the voiceless. Give us great courage, boldness, and a heart of obedience to love those who are unacquainted with love. Amen.
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John 19:17–24
THE LOVE OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E LOV E OF G O D
WEEK TWO Sunday, Feb. 18
HEART OF THE CROSS For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him. Colossians 1:19–22 At the heart of the cross is the heart of God. And the heart of God is love: never-stopping, never-ending, forever-reaching love of God. This love is who God is. This love is what God is. This love is the longing of God to be reconciled back to his creation. The heart of Jesus longed, the body of Jesus extended, and the death of Jesus paid the way for us to know God once again. practice How would you answer the question, “Why did Jesus have to die?” What would you tell a person who had no idea who Jesus was? This is an enormous question with both a simple answer as well as complex realities. As you enter into this week, spend time in prayer, asking God to lead your reading and your study. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see what is true and good, that you might see Jesus, love others, and live as he is calling you. further reading 1 Corinthians 15:3–4
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WEEK TWO Monday, Feb. 19
A HARD WORLD “In our world, something is terribly wrong and must be put right.” (Rutledge, p. 143) We do not have to look far to recognize the things wrong with our world, big (death, pain, suffering, injustice, and evil) and small (selfishness, ignorance, laziness, white lies). Or so we think. There is no denying something is wrong, and it is difficult to ignore the incapability of humans to make things right. The powers are too strong and too vast. This power, sin, came into the world, and the world is broken because of it. practice Spend time in the reality of our broken world. List injustices, evils, personal selfishness, unkindness, etc. Reflect on your thoughts and feelings as you look over this list. In prayer, speak these thoughts and feelings to God. Ask him to heal, make right, and change the things on your list. Ask him to show you what needs to change in you. further reading Romans 8:20–21
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WEEK TWO Tuesday, Feb. 20
SLAVES I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins. John 8:24 We love our freedoms, and we have many of them. With these freedoms it is hard to believe we would be slaves to anything. Our freedoms deceive us into believing we have more power and control than we actually do. So, when we talk about slavery to sin, we find it hard to believe. Yet, Scripture tells us the sin of the first person trickled down to all of humanity and brought death into the entire world. It trickled down to us. We are born with it, and sin affects who we are and what we do. It is a dominion we live under and are powerless to bring ourselves out of. The depth of this brokenness makes us incapable of providing ourselves a way out from sin. There was only one person who could, a perfect person untainted by sin—God himself. On the cross, Jesus battled for our sake, to deliver us from the powers of sin and death. He saved us from this dominion and calls us into a new dominion of life. practice Write John 8:24 on a notecard or add it to your digital device. Place the notecard somewhere you regularly look or set a reminder on your digital device to look at the Scripture verse. Read it over and over again throughout the day. Allow the Scripture to soak into your mind and heart as you repeat it. Offer prayers throughout the day for people who need the hope and salvation of Jesus. further reading Romans 5:12–19, Romans 3:9
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WEEK TWO Wednesday, Feb. 21
HIS SURRENDER, OUR SALVATION “God’s righteousness leads him to all lengths to oppose what will destroy what he loves.” (Rutledge, p. 136) There are lengths to which we will go to for love and justice. We will exhaust ourselves, spend all our resources, and even give up our own lives for a select few. Death was the length Jesus went to for all. While on his way to the cross, he was met with abandonment, disbelief, humiliation, violence, and pain. As he hung on a tree, he endured the weight of both sin and redemption for the world. Why? Because he loves and would go to any length required for what he loves. practice Read John 17:1–3 and John 19:17–24. Write down your observations about the purpose and path of Jesus in these Scriptures. Meditate on these observations, and reflect on the salvation and reconciliation he brought between you and God. Write down and pray over any truths you want God to deepen in you. further reading Romans 5:6–11, 1 Peter 2:24, 1 John 1:7
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WEEK TWO Thursday, Feb. 22
COSMIC BAT TLE When we think of cosmic battles, we envision movies with aliens, superheroes, and gods of other worlds. We envision the setting in space with battleships, light speed aircrafts, and planets of various powers. Whatever we imagine, in that picture there is good and evil. And in our heart of hearts, we are cheering for good to win. The cross of Jesus was also a place of cosmic battle, yet it took place on earth, with aftereffects that extend beyond our finite imaginations. It was the place of cosmic battle in which the outcome was secure. Jesus would not fail. Satan would fall. practice Read John 12:27–33 and John 14:27–31. In these passages, what observations do you make about power? Who has it? How much of it do they have? What encouragements do these words of Jesus give you? Considering the power and promises of Jesus, is there a present situation you are facing where you need to be reminded of these truths? Allow the words of Jesus to minister to you today. further reading Ephesians 6:11–17, Revelation 20:10
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WEEK TWO Friday, Feb. 23
A NOBODY In a world filled with rankings, there are somebodies and nobodies. We rank according to beauty, money, intelligence, and abilities. With these rankings we then regard people, and consider whether they are worthy of our time, energy, and love. This way of the world is nothing new, yet Jesus calls us to a new way of living. Crucifixion was the way “nobodies” were killed. Their life was of no value, and this method of death illustrated their lack of worth. If you were crucified, you were the lowest. Yet the irony we find is that Jesus was the greatest somebody. This somebody was the only one who could take on the mission of saving the world. practice Think about a time you have treated someone like a “nobody.” Write down the person/people’s name(s) below. Confess to God the ways you treated them. Throughout your confession and movement in forgiveness, trust in the assurance, given to us by Jesus on the cross, that your sin is forgiven. Continue in prayer, talking to God about whether you should ask the person/people for forgiveness. Have the courage to do what he says.
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WEEK TWO Saturday, Feb. 24
Loving God, we only know glimpses of how to love. Our love extends to limited places and people, as we believe love is a scarcity. We have so much to learn from the way Jesus loves—with surrender, disregard for himself, humility, and abundance. We want to be people who love like Jesus. May we not fear as we love, for perfect love casts out all fear. May we be people who know your love, and live fearlessly and faithfully because of it. May we live with joy, as we live lives of sacrificial and unrelenting love. Amen.
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John 18:28–32 & 19:6–16
THE TRIAL OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E T R I A L OF G O D
WEEK THREE Sunday, Feb. 25
FINAL HOURS The crucial hour for every Jew and Gentile has arrived. Jesus is on trial for claiming to be the Son of God. As the Jews shout for him to be crucified, the climax of God’s plan begins to unveil with shouting, whipping, hatred, a judge, and the law. Jesus stands on trial for all the sin of the world— including our sin—even as the people shout and revolt. No matter the pain and mockery, Jesus remains faithful to God and his plan to save us. Jesus steps forward as our rightful king. practice Spend time reflecting on the trial of Jesus by reading John 18:28–32 and 19:6–16. Underline words or phrases that stand out or make you ask questions. Pray for God to use this week to help you better understand his trial and draw you closer to him. further reading Psalm 40:16–17
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WEEK THREE Monday, Feb. 26
WHERE’S YOUR FOCUS? Doorbells, text notifications, email buzzes… Today, hundreds of things and people will fight for our attention. Perhaps even in this moment, something is fighting for your focus. Our fast-paced world is filled with exams, sports games, kids, and meetings. We regularly lose our focus, getting wrapped up in things that are not that important. We forget that when Jesus is our focus, everything else falls to the background. When Jesus was on earth, the people around him lost focus just as we do today. Instead of seeing Jesus, they tried to get rid of him, shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” The people lost sight of the fact that Jesus was and is the true Son of God, even when he was right in front of them. practice Write down the things that are fighting for your focus right now. Spend time in confession, asking God to forgive you for prioritizing things and people over him. Ask God to help in prioritizing your relationship with him. What will be your first steps?
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WEEK THREE Tuesday, Feb. 27
I’VE GOT THE POWER As acts of violence take place and brokenness hits close to home, safety is a top concern for many of us. The desire to be in control and have power feels vital. We work to control our situations—where we live, the people around us, our position at work, our alarm systems—in hopes that control will lead to security. It becomes easy to believe the lie that we are in complete control. Yet, Scripture reveals that no matter how much power we hold, we are not in control. Power and control will not satisfy us or make us truly happy. We do not always know why or what God is up to, but we can trust that God is in control and allows certain things to happen for his glory. Power and control belong to God. practice Reflect on John 18:28–32 and 19:6–16, focusing on John 19:10–11. Who appears to have all the power? Imagine what it took for Jesus to say what he did and respond how he did. How does Jesus use his power? Whether is seems like it or not, do you believe Jesus has power? Confess to God the times you have not trusted him. Ask God to help you trust him more, so that you can be freed up to love and find rest. further reading Matthew 11:30
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WEEK THREE Wednesday, Feb. 28
GOD ’S PLAN > MY PLAN In life, there are seasons of joy, sorrow, love, and loss. In times of doubt and uncertainty, we are tempted to clench our fists and take on the weight of the world. We take hold of anything we can as the unknown surrounds us. God invites us to open our fists and trust in his provision. Between God creating the first man to the Son of God coming to Earth, God had an epic, incredible plan. When we read the trial of Jesus, it looks like random acts of human wickedness and no one knows what is going on. Yet, God in his sovereignty knows what he is doing. Through Jesus, God fulfills every prophecy spoken about him from the beginning of time. Through Jesus, God’s plan prevails. In the same way, God’s plan and provision are taking place in our lives today. practice Read Psalm 22:18 & John 19:23–24. Compare what was prophesied in Psalm 22:18 to what happened in John 19:23–24. Write down the truths you find about God’s faithfulness. Take 5–10 minutes to rest in the Lord’s presence. Go on a walk outside, sit on the porch, or kneel with palms open before the Lord. As you rest in the Lord’s presence, give all anxieties and stress to God. Rest in the truth you found in the Scriptures above, trusting God’s plan will prevail and God is faithful. further reading Matthew 26:56, Phil 1:6
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WEEK THREE Thursday, March 1
POINTING FINGERS Comparison quickly shifts our focus. As we look around, we begin to point a finger at someone else’s life and say how we would live our life differently if we were in their shoes. We think we could work harder, give a better speech, or lead the team if we only we were in their role. When we shift our focus, we ignore our responsibilities. We then begin to blame others for our discontentment and situation in life. We begin to put others down so that we can feel better about ourselves. This cycle can be difficult to stop. God’s Word challenges us to first look at our own hearts before pointing the finger. As we look at the trial, it is easy to point the finger and say what people “should” have done at the trial of Jesus. It’s harder to step back and realize that we are just as broken and sinful as the people at the trial. We desperately need Jesus. practice Read the people’s reaction to Jesus in John 19:6-16. What do you notice about their response? How do you think you would have responded? Take some deep breaths to slow your mind and heart. Write down the name of a person whom you have been comparing yourself to. Take a minute to breathe in God’s presence and breathe out any judgment or frustration you have with this person. Confess any wrongs you have committed or thought against this person. As you continue in prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your response the next time you interact with or see this person. further reading Luke 6:42
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WEEK THREE Friday, March 2
A MODEL TO FOLLOW Awkward conversations about politics can quickly arise, and we wonder how to respond. News reports come out about a political leader, and we question our response as believers in Christ. Even in the carpool line, topics come up that make us pause, hoping that we respond in the correct way. We understand our faith is in Jesus, but how do we live it out day to day amidst these conversations? Jesus gives us an example to follow for situations just like this. Jesus was in the middle of a political controversy. In fact, he was the controversy! Jesus was arrested, questioned by the government, and given an illegal trial. There was nothing fair about Jesus’s trial. After being whipped and questioned by the government, consider how Jesus responded. Jesus did not scream, yell, or spit at anyone; he maturely responded to questions, and did not overreact. He suffered and endured for us. Jesus knew God’s plan and the reason for the trial. Jesus set a pattern for us to follow as Christians when we face unavoidable conversations and even trials and persecution for our faith. practice What are your natural responses in an intense conversation? Do you withdraw or engage? Do you get quiet, angry, attack, etc? Read Mark 12:30–31. What are the commands? What do you think it takes to live out these commands? Take 10 minutes asking God to show you ways you can prioritize loving him first. Write down these priorities. Share one or two with a friend or group to help you live out these healthier rhythms of loving people.
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WEEK THREE Saturday, March 3
Gracious God, we desperately need you. In our conversation, in our day to day, we need you to be the center and focus of our lives. Life does not satisfy without you. We give you all power and control. We trust in you and your plan. Thank you for sacrificing so much for us through the gift of your Son. Thank you for being faithful even when we are not. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your plan. Use the Holy Spirit to continually reveal your character as we go throughout our day. Give us peace, trust, and focus as we go forward. Amen.
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John 19:24b–27
THE NEW FAMILY OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E N E W FA M I LY OF G O D
WEEK FOUR Sunday, March 4
TWO PERSPECTIVES Two groups of people stood beneath one cross: one group with faith in Jesus, and the other with none. Soldiers played a game of dice while the women drew near to Jesus. A sign above Jesus’s head read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” Little did the soldiers know, the Lamb of God hung above them, and their game of dice was fulfilling Scripture. These two groups give a snapshot of the world vs. the Church. All the while the Lamb of God sacrificed himself for us all. practice Read John 19:24b–27. Spend time in solitude and silence, reflecting on the two groups at the cross. Voice your gratitude that God was in control and used the faithful few to begin his church and be eyewitnesses for us. Pray for those in your life who do not know the meaning of the cross and that God might reveal himself to them. further reading Psalm 22:18, Isaiah 53
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WEEK FOUR Monday, March 5
FRONT ROW We want to be in the front row. At a sports game, we buy courtside seats to be close to the action. At a concert, we pay more to have first row tickets. At a children’s performance, we arrive early so we can be the closest to see our child perform. Whatever we love, we long to be near, especially in big moments. The closer we are shows our dedication and willingness to go “all in.” There is one moment, though, where we all need front row seats: the cross of Jesus. At the center of the crucifixion is the heart of God. In one defining moment, God reveals his true character and unconditional, selfless love for each of us. practice Take some time in silence and solitude to reflect on where you stand in relation to the cross, using the statements below. • Beyond the Cross: Thinking Jesus’s death on the cross is in the past; viewing yourself as super spiritual; seeing what you know as enough and not seeing a need for the cross today (1 Corinthians 14:37) • Above the Cross: Thinking pain and suffering is behind and beneath you; viewing yourself as a “super disciple”; boasting in your own stature and thinking you are superior to others (2 Corinthians 12:11) • Near the Cross: Understanding that God is active and present and at the center of the cross is the heart of God, causing all areas of life to be questioned in light of the cross (Rutledge, pg. 44) Read and reflect on John 19:25–27 and the points above. Spend time asking God to reveal what it means to stand near the cross. Confess the times you forget about the cross and what God did for you. Be encouraged that God forgives us and we can rest in his forgiveness through Christ Jesus.
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WEEK FOUR Tuesday, March 6
THE FAITHFUL FEW Faithfulness is hard. It takes time and commitment, and pushes us out of our comfort zone. It requires listening, rearranging plans, and putting aside our me-centered tendencies. In a culture where divorce abounds, job longevity is decreasing, and the fear of missing out prevails, faithfulness is uncommon among the people around us. As Jesus hung on the cross, many lost faith in him. Jesus preached to thousands, yet only a few stood nearby as he hung on the cross. They were not kings, high priests, or dignitaries, but ordinary people. As others laughed and mocked, only the faithful few stood near to Jesus. As they stood near, we can only guess what was going on within them— shock, confusion, uncertainty, pain. Even with their internal chaos, these women and John stayed by Jesus’s side. practice Write down a person in your life who has lived out faithfulness. What characteristics do you see in this person’s life that lead you to call them faithful? Read John 19:24b–27. Imagine what it took for John and the women to remain faithful to Jesus. What does it mean, for you, to be faithful to God? Faithful to others?
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WEEK FOUR Wednesday, March 7
THE DARKEST HOUR In the darkness and pain, we scream and shout out. We question and search for answers. It is hard to trust in what we cannot see when we do not know what lies ahead. The unknown is scary. When we do not know what the future holds, when we do not know why, we struggle with uncertainty. We clench our fists and demand answers. As Jesus hung on the cross, four faithful women stayed out of love and loyalty. Their faith extended even in the darkest hour, even in a moment when they were feeling deep loss. As Jesus hung on the cross, bloodied and in pain, they remained with God without knowing what the future held. practice Spend 10 minutes in silence with God. Turn off distractions and find a comfortable posture to listen for God’s voice. Consider any unknowns in your life. Are you afraid, uncertain, confused? Ask God to show you how and where to trust him in the darkness. Ask him for a friend to help you walk through the darkness. If a certain friend comes to mind, write their name down and ask them to walk with you. further reading 2 Corinthians 12:9
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T H E C R O SS : T H E N E W FA M I LY OF G O D
WEEK FOUR Thursday, March 8
REDEFINING FAMILY Who do you consider family? Beyond your biological family, perhaps you consider co-workers, people who live under your roof, the neighbor next door, or college buddies. As we live life and scroll through social media, we see how families come in all shapes and sizes. There is no one type of family. While Jesus hung from the cross, in two short phrases, he gave new meaning to the word “family.” Jesus encouraged the disciple, John, to take his mother into his home, thus creating a new family. The differences in personalities or backgrounds did not matter: what mattered was their common love for Jesus. They were both a part of God’s family through their love for Jesus. By believing in Jesus and his death on the cross for us, we enter into a new family, God’s family. It is not by accident that we were chosen to be part of God’s family. We do not have to work to earn God’s love—God meets us right where we are. practice As you sit in silence and solitude, read John 1:12–13 out loud. Read it two or three more times. Write it on a notecard or in a digital device and take it with you today. Set yourself a reminder to look at it hourly, allowing the Scripture to soak into your mind and heart. further reading Galatians 3:26, Ephesians 1:5
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T H E C R O SS : T H E N E W FA M I LY OF G O D
WEEK FOUR Friday, March 9
TRANSFORMATION IN COMMUNITY Ever noticed how easy it is to share… as long as people do not ask to borrow our favorite items? Or how joyful we are… as long as people around us are positive? Or how patient we are… as long as no one tests our limits? Or how faithful we are… as long as we receive what we want? In The Gospel-Centered Community, Thune and Walker write, “Every one of us is a saint in isolation! It’s in community that our real weaknesses, flaws, and sins are exposed.” (pg. 17) It is in community that we grow and sharpen one another, which is why community is essential to becoming transformed followers of Jesus. When God called us into fellowship in his family, he also called us into fellowship with others who trust Jesus for salvation. God shows us the importance of community, as he redefined family on the cross. practice Who is your faith community—the people walking with you in faith and helping you to follow Jesus? Do you have a community like this? If you have this type of community, how can they help you be transformed in certain areas of your life? Are there places you have made off limits from them? If you do not have a community like this, take steps to join one today. Go to hppres.org/connect to find the different groups we offer. Set aside time right now to explore what community God is inviting you to be part of; now is a good time to prioritize community. further reading 1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Corinthians 12:21, Proverbs 27:17
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T H E C R O SS : T H E N E W FA M I LY OF G O D
WEEK FOUR Saturday, March 10
Gracious God, you have given us the gift of a family that goes beyond shared names and cultures, beyond time and proximity. Once again, you remind us that you define things differently than we do, expanding our perspectives to see as you do. Help us to remain centered on Jesus, who brings this family together. May we love one another as he loves us. As we love one another, may people see this love and be drawn to your great love. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.
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John 19:28–30
THE DEATH OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Sunday, March 11
IT IS FINISHED Jesus was the greatest laborer on earth with the greatest task set before him. He completed his work with a victorious and beautiful, “It is finished.” All the toil, work, power, and love it took to fulfill his mission on earth was worth it. Relationship with humanity and creation were worth it. His finished work made way for our salvation and his victory over sin and death. His death put our sin to death. practice Read John 17:1–4 and John 19:28–30 and reflect on Jesus’s life and the lengths of his love. Voice your gratitude to God for your salvation through Jesus. Pray for those in your life who do not know the love of Jesus, that they might know him.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Monday, March 12
ENDINGS When something ends, we are left with a void. As we process our pain, we grieve what was and what could have been. It is hard to see beginnings during an ending. Nothing will ever fill that void. As God meets us with his comfort, grace, and strength, we are able to see the glimmer of a new beginning. Jesus, knowing the end of his life was near and his job done, fulfilled the Scripture, saying, “It is finished.” Yet, this end was just the beginning. It was the beginning of resurrection. It was the opening event to the conquering of death and hell. practice Read John 19:28–30. As you reflect on the finished end of Jesus’s life, what are you feeling? What thoughts are going through your mind? Sit in silence and solitude with this passage. Ask God to show you what he wants you to see about Jesus’s “end” and the power in his work.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Tuesday, March 13
CHOOSING DEATH Our choices typically revolve around comfort, relief, and security. The voluntary choice of discomfort, pain, and loss is not an easy one. Yet, we find that when we are compelled by something worthy, we choose the hard road. Love is the greatest motivator, and it compels us to do difficult things. Love is what compelled Jesus to choose death. During Jesus’s time, crucifixion was a form of death that slowly took a person’s life. Jesus chose to die this death, and he chose death when he handed over his spirit. In his choice to hand over his spirit, he showed death who had power. Death did not finish him—he chose it. practice Read John 10:17–18 and John 19:30. Notice the choices Jesus made. What power does he have? What power do others have in these passages? As you read about Jesus’s choice to do a very hard thing, how does this shape your life as you walk toward a hard thing? How will you choose to accomplish this task? In prayer, talk to God about this task and ask him to help you accomplish it. further reading Isaiah 53
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Wednesday, March 14
COMPLETION HOLDS Guilt motivates us to withhold forgiveness from ourselves. Whether we have hurt someone’s feelings, lied about something, or treated someone poorly, we want to do something to make things right. Even if the person has forgiven us and offered us grace, we still beat ourselves down and believe we must do something extra, additional, above, and beyond to make up for our selfishness. It is hard to receive grace. There may be consequences to our actions that we will receive, and we need to pay those consequences. Yet, it is often the internal torture of not forgiving ourselves that weighs us down. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” he meant it. Sin leads to death. And Jesus defeated sin and death. The power of sin and death is gone, yet we allow the shadow of death to linger. We feel like we need to do something for this gift of grace, but nothing can be added and nothing can be taken away from Jesus’s work on the cross. practice Read Hebrews 10:14–22 a few times. What word or phrase stands out for you? Write it down. Use this word to center you as you sit in centering prayer for 10 minutes. Allow the Lord to deepen the truth of the work Jesus completed through the cross.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Thursday, March 15
GLORIFYING GOD There are tasks we enjoy doing and then there are those which are merely chores. These take discipline, caffeine, and music in the background to complete. For most of us, our lives are a mixture of things we enjoy and those we must do. Jesus glorified God when he completed the task he was called to do. God calls us all to different tasks in different seasons of life. Whether great or small, any task can bring glory to God. Sometimes we need some help with our perspective and attitude as we serve him. What tasks has God given to you in this time in life? Who are the people he has called you to serve? What is your attitude toward these tasks? practice List out these tasks and responsibilities. Next to each one, write down whether it is difficult or easy to complete. As you look at your list, ask God to show you how to prioritize and organize your life to accomplish these tasks. Ask him how you need to incorporate him in each of the things he has called you to do. Try out any new ways of accomplishing these tasks and as you do, remember how any task, great or small, can bring glory to God.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Friday, March 16
WALKING IN THE SHADOWS Situations are not always as they seem. Neither are people. One person’s situation can look horrible, yet there is goodness and life coming forth. Another person’s life can look picture perfect, yet the picture is a facade. In the face of pain and suffering, what rises to the surface is discouragement, hopelessness, and futility. In the face of death on the cross, all there was to see was death and defeat. For those standing nearby, Jesus’s death on the cross looked anything but victorious. When we walk in the valley of the shadow of death, all we can see are shadows. And sometimes those shadows linger. practice Who do you know who is walking in shadows? Take time to consider one or two people going through a difficult time. Maybe they are hopelessly walking through a time of defeat and discouragement. As you do, ask God to help you love them well through listening, encouraging, and meeting them in the shadows. Ask how can you speak assurance and hope, and honor their suffering. Take the time to walk with them in the valley of the shadow of death.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E D E AT H OF G O D
WEEK FIVE Saturday, March 17
Gracious God, we do not always know what to do with endings. We would prefer to avoid them, delay them, and ignore them. We want to keep at a distance the change they demand, the pain that accompanies, and the unknowns that ensue. Yet Jesus, you did not avoid the pain and you did not ignore your call. As we look to you and your strength, may we have the same strength to do what we are called to. Whether it is a simple or grand task, may we live fully, live well, and trust that when endings come, you are with us. Thank you that we are not alone and may we be people who remind others that they are not alone. In Jesus’s name, we pray. Amen.
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John 3:16–19
THE WRATH OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Sunday, March 18
AVOIDING THE UNCOMFORTABLE Wrath is a word we avoid; it makes us squirm and look the other way. It is a term we are uncomfortable with and have a hard time believing it is an aspect of love. When we avoid wrath we ignore the aspect of God’s character that includes wrath. We cannot make sense of a loving God and wrath—it is irreconcilable. Yet we cannot ignore a term used throughout the Old and New Testament of God. We must engage and understand how God’s wrath is intertwined with his love. They cannot be separated. Since we cannot ignore it we’ll go back and define it in order to understand it. We do know this: God’s wrath is his response to sin in the world. It is active. And his love takes on the greatest wrath of this world. practice Read John 3:16–19. Reread verses 18–19 a couple of times. Write down what you observe in this text. How do these observations sit with you? What do they stir up in your heart? What questions arise in your mind? Write these down and talk to God about them in prayer. You may not receive answers today, but offer your honest questions to God in prayer.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Monday, March 19
CONFLICTING GODS When used in the same sentence, the words wrath and God seem like an oxymoron. How can a God of love be a God of wrath? At the same time, it is hard to deny there is a sense of injustice we feel when someone is wronged, a life is violated, and evil gets away. Some of us have experienced situations in which anger and a desire for justice are the appropriate response. What do we do with this sense of justice? Where did we get it from? Where does wrath fit in? Should we even use this word? Fleming Rutledge provides some insight to our struggle: “The wrath of God is not an emotion that flares up from time to time, as though God had temper tantrums; it is a way of describing his absolute enmity against all wrong and his coming to set matters right... Wrath is not an emotion; it is God’s righteous activity in setting right what is wrong.” (p. 130, 132) God’s wrath is unlike ours. God’s wrath is focused on making things right. He fights for what is right and true. It is impossible for God to ignore wrongs because his love compels him to make things right. If wrath is an activity rooted in love rather than a volatile emotion, how does this change our understanding of wrath and the love of God? practice Reread John 3:16–19 and then read Romans 1:18–25. While you read these passages and study them, ask God to meet you in any conflict of thought regarding his love and his wrath. The internal conflict may not be resolved today, but seeing the fuller picture of God begins with recognizing, praying, and asking him for help.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Tuesday, March 20
COMPLETING OUR THEOLOGY Talk to someone in another part of the world who regularly experiences grave injustices and assaults, and their theology might be more complete than ours. Even if we have not experienced regular injustices, most of us have experienced or seen situations where we felt anger, desired justice, and longed for the wrong to be made right. And we find ourselves at a loss of what to do with these strong senses. Most of us have not been taught or shown what to do with these strong responses. What do we do with the emotion of anger that indicates an injustice? How do we respond to the godly desire for a wrong to be made right? We find ourselves at a loss and often we do nothing. Yet God does something. He knows what to do, and we need his help understanding his way of making things right and the courage to join him. practice Spend time in prayer reflecting on what you have studied so far this week. Allow new definitions and ideas to sink in further. Meditate on Micah 6:8 and what it could mean for your life. Ask God to show you his truth, remind you of his grace, and give you the courage to act if that would be the right thing to do.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Wednesday, March 21
FINDING OUR VOICE Our experiences with anger vary. The value of self-control and quiet is encouraged. It is suppressed in children rather than encouraged in healthy expression. Anger is rightly engaged and matured when it is filtered through and led by God’s love and righteousness. When anger is engaged and matured it can be a catalyst to change and a voice to speak into injustices of the world. We need to find our voices again, for the sake of others in the world. practice Was there a time where you felt anger or injustice on behalf of another? Did you speak up or remain silent? Have you ever dismissed a sense of justice because it did not seem forgiving or kind? Have you ever let a bully or victimizer get away with something? Spend time speaking this confession to God. Be reminded of his forgiveness through Jesus. Be reminded that if you are in a position to make a difference and speak up, God is with you to give you the strength and courage to do justice.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Thursday, March 22
TAKING ON WRATH “No one could have imagined, however, that God would ultimately intervene by imposing himself… the wrath of God falls upon God himself, by God’s own choice, out of God’s own love.” (Rutledge, p. 132, 143) How beautiful is it that God’s response to what is wrong in this world would be himself? He who is perfect would take on the consequences of what is wrong in the world—sin. His love extended on the Cross—to offer his life to make right all that is wrong. He never did anything wrong, yet he took on all the wrongs of the world to make it right because he loves. And because he loves, the consequences of our wrongs did not fall on us. He chose for them to fall on him. This is how great the love of God is! God then leaves the option to us whether we will choose to receive this gracious gift of freedom from sin. For all of humanity, the offering of God is this: receive Jesus and his gift of salvation from sin and God’s wrath. practice Read Romans 5:6–11 and pay attention to any verse that stands out to you. Read the passage again, focusing on the verse that stood out to you. Write the verse somewhere where you will see it often throughout the day. Reread it throughout the day and try memorizing it. further reading 1 Peter 3:18–22, 1 Thessalonians 5:9
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T H E C R O SS : T H E W R AT H OF G O D
WEEK SIX Friday, March 23
WRATH FELL “Even more astonishingly, however, [Jesus] underwent helplessness and humiliation not only for the victimized but also for the perpetrators.” (Rutledge, p. 132) We reflect God’s sense of justice because we are made in God’s image. As his image bearers, we reflect this desire for things to be made right in the world. Yet we are a mere reflection of God’s image. Jesus is God’s perfect image, he is God himself, and took on God’s wrath for the sake of everyone. He did this for victims and victimizers. And we are both. We need justice, and we deserve justice. We sin against others, and we receive sin. Out of his great love, God takes care of both. Again, “the wrath of God falls upon God himself, by God’s own choice, out of God’s own love.” (Rutledge, p. 143) practice Spend time reflecting on an injustice. Maybe it is an unjust current event in the world, or a victim whose attacker did not receive justice. Even if it is uncomfortable, spend time imagining what it would be like to sit in an injustice and never be recognized as being a victim. In prayer, talk to God about these injustices and ask for his justice and love to pour out on those people. further reading Read Romans 3:21–26
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WEEK SIX Saturday, March 24
Gracious God, how we long for all things to be made right, made new, and for your perfect love to pour out over all. Today we pray for those who suffer injustices. We pray for those wrongly accused. We pray for those who have had benefits, rights, and opportunities taken away because of who they are and where they live. We pray your justice would rain down on those who lie, betray, exploit, and harm. We pray your love would also rain down on them, that they might see your love and turn from their sinful ways. We pray we would do the same. Holy Spirit, do the miraculous work of changing hearts. The work that only you can do. By your power, we pray. Amen.
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John 19:38–42
THE BURIAL OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Sunday, March 25
DEATH MOVES Death moves us in unexpected ways. Death simplifies our preferences, empowers our passion, and moves us in purpose. The reality of mortality serves as a reminder of our limited life on earth and provides opportunity to reflect on how we have lived. To come to the end of another’s life causes us to reflect on the totality of our own life. practice Read John 19:31–37. Imagine being there, watching the people involved, and what they did with Jesus’s body before its burial. As you take in the scene, meditate on the reality of what happened, as well as the Scripture fulfilled. Spend time in prayer and ask God to prepare your mind and heart for this week’s devotions.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Monday, March 26
INTERVENTION The move to intervene on behalf of another takes strength and courage. It can mean taking a stand when no one else does. It can lead to being ostracized from a group. It can raise up courage in another. Some of us have experienced the beauty of intervention and others have felt the sting of its absence. A man who loved Jesus, Joseph of Arimathea, intervened for Jesus. He used his position and power to save the body of Jesus from a criminal’s grave and gave him an honorable burial. practice Read John 19:38, Matthew 27:57–60, Mark 15:42–46, and Luke 23:50–53. List what you learn about the person of Joseph of Arimathea. What do you observe about who he is and the actions he took? Does anything stand out to you? What and how come?
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Tuesday, March 27
OUT OF THE SHADOWS Staying in the shadows seems safe. In these shadows is a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity. We remain hidden, controlling who can truly see us. Because of his great love, God often comes into our shadows to bring us to the light of his love and goodness. He offers to meet us in our uncertainties, fears, and questions so that we can come out of the shadows. The death of Jesus brought one man out of the shadows—Nicodemus. He first came to Jesus in the night, and now comes to Jesus in the day, honoring the Son of God with spices and gifts fit for a King. practice Meditate on John 19:39 and Nicodemus’s movement out of the shadows toward faith and honor. Is there a place in your life where you are remaining in the shadows? Maybe it is one area of life where you have not trusted God to meet you. Maybe it is a sin you are afraid of anyone knowing about. As you meditate on Nicodemus’s movement toward Jesus, consider how God is calling you out of the shadows and into the light. Write a prayer asking God to give you courage and faith to do so.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Wednesday, March 28
VULNERABILITY OF DEPENDENCE To depend is to be vulnerable. To depend is to trust that someone else will take care of things, will take care of you. To depend is to open ourselves to disappointment and pain. To depend is not automatic. When Jesus entered this world, he was fully dependent on a humble and righteous couple to care for him. When Jesus left this world, he was fully dependent on two righteous and wealthy men to lay his body to rest. This made him vulnerable in so many ways. Jesus chose to depend on people. He chose to trust in their care. practice Reflecting on this devotional guide so far, where have you been uncomfortable with Jesus’s vulnerability? Why? As you reflect on Jesus’s surrender and vulnerability, reflect on your own. Are you trying to do something on your own that you need help with? What is it? As God shows you these things, move forward in reaching out to him and others.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Thursday, March 29
FAITHFUL IN THE MOMENT There are moments we know we are called to. We cannot explain it or convince anyone of it, we just know. We do not always see these moments coming, but our lives have built up to these moments. All we know is we must do something. In the face of death, Joseph and Nicodemus took Jesus’s body, wrapped it with spices, and placed it in a virgin tomb. This was their moment of faith as they courageously stepped out, offering their gifts to Jesus. They did not know what would come next. They just knew now was their time and their moment. practice Ask the Holy Spirit to prepare your eyes and ears for what you are about to read. Read John 19:40–42 out loud. Read it slowly one more time. Read it even more slowly one last time. Is there a word or phrase that stands out to you or causes you to pause? Write it down. Use this word or phrase to lead your prayers. Write your prayers, and thank God for his faithfulness and trust he is doing a work in you through his Word.
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Friday, March 30
ADVOCATES Influence is a gift given to us. We have been given authority, voice, and power over people and circles. We can use it for our personal preferences and purposes, and we can use it for the sake of others. Here again, God gives us opportunities to bless and build up others. Jesus had all the power in the world, and he chose to release it for the sake of the world. The life he lived led others to do the same. Joseph and Nicodemus are merely two people in the story of Jesus’s life who chose to use their power and influence for the sake of another. practice Write down where God has given you influence and which spheres of authority. In prayer, ask God to show you the faces of people he wants you to serve. Write down their names, asking God how he wants to you practice generosity and service toward them. It could be advocating for them in a meeting, offering a resource or connection, or simply taking the time to get to know them and encourage them. As God shows you, go do it!
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T H E C R O SS : T H E B U R I A L OF G O D
WEEK SEVEN Saturday, March 31
Gracious God, you have given us far more than we can ask or imagine, the greatest gift being your Son, Jesus, and life through him. Thank you for the Holy Spirit, whose power lives in and through us to transform us and love the world. As we have learned of these two men, who came out of the shadows and loved courageously, would you give us heart, grit, and strength to love and serve those you have put in our lives? May we see our places of influences as gifts and graces, and seek to love generously. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.
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John 21:1–9
THE VICTORY OF GOD
T H E C R O SS : T H E V I C TO R Y OF G O D
EASTER Sunday, April 1
HE IS RISEN The day breaks, and Jesus is risen! He is not dead, he is alive! Through his life, we live, and as we live, we love those near and far. Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.� John 20:21 May we rejoice today and walk in his peace, doing the work he has called us to do.
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