Easter

March 23rd – 1 Peter 1:3

1 Peter 1:3

The Jews who followed Jesus were exiled and scattered across the lands. In need of great hope, Peter reminded them of the living hope we have in Jesus. A hope that springs eternal from the resurrection of Christ from the dead. This hope is not merely wishful thinking, but a confident assurance in the promises of God and the certainty of His faithfulness. The resurrection of Jesus serves as the cornerstone of our faith, providing us with unwavering confidence in God’s power to overcome sin and death. As we reflect on the hope of Easter, we find comfort in knowing that God is actively at work in our lives, orchestrating all things for our good and His glory. Even in the midst of trials and uncertainties, we cling to this living hope, knowing that our future is secure in the hands of our faithful Savior. So let our lips sing praises to the Lord! For His resurrection has transformed our lives.  And His sacrifice has given us a glorious inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us.

March 23rd – 1 Peter 1:3 Read More »

March 22nd – Philippians 4:4

Philippians 4:4

To rejoice is to experience an overwhelming sense of gladness and joy, often accompanied by expressions of celebration and gratitude. It’s a deep-seated happiness rooted in the goodness of God and His blessings in our lives. And Easter, where we celebrate the glorious Resurrection of Jesus and His victory over sin and death, gives us ample reason to rejoice. To praise God for His unfailing love and faithfulness. As we reflect on the empty tomb and the triumph of Christ, our hearts overflow with joy and gratitude for the salvation and eternal life He has secured for us. In every season and circumstance of life, we find comfort and strength in rejoicing in the Lord, knowing that His resurrection power is at work within us. Let us lift our voices in worship and adoration, offering up songs of praise for the mighty deeds of our risen Savior. With hearts filled with joy, let us declare His goodness and proclaim His victory to all the earth. For in Him, we have every reason to rejoice, now and forevermore.

 

March 22nd – Philippians 4:4 Read More »

March 21st – Judges 6:24

Judges 6:24

I can’t believe we’re already in March and close to Easter. Where has the time gone! This new year of 2024 has brought with it anything but peace. Conflict and warfare continue to ravage parts of the world, leaving behind devastation and heartache. Here at home it’s an election year, stirring up political divisions that seem to deepen with each passing day. Not to mention the decline of a society which glorifies all that is wicked, and seeks to remove God instead of turn to Him. No wonder people are feeling overwhelmed and disheartened. But as followers of Jesus, we can find comfort in the unwavering truth that our peace doesn’t depend on our circumstances. Instead our peace comes from the mighty “Yahweh Shalom,” the Lord is peace. The One who provides a peace that rises above all circumstances. A divine serenity that can bring healing and harmony to our hearts, our homes, and our world. For when we surrender to Him, our mighty “Yahweh Shalom” brings His people not only physical deliverance but also inner peace and security amidst every trial and challenge.

March 21st – Judges 6:24 Read More »

March 18th – Ephesians 1:11

Ephesians 1:11

In Ephesians 1:11, we are reminded of the unfathomable riches of God’s grace poured out upon us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His blood, shed on the cross, serves as the ultimate payment for the forgiveness of our sins and the restoration of our broken relationship with God. Impossible to do on our own, through Christ, we are redeemed, reconciled, and adopted as our heavenly Father’s beloved children. This divine act of love demonstrates the incomprehensible depths of God’s mercy and the boundless extent of His forgiveness. As we reflect on the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice, our hearts overflow with gratitude for His amazing grace. We stand in awe of the freedom we have been granted in Christ, liberated from the bondage of sin and death, and welcomed into the eternal inheritance of the saints. Let us, therefore, bow in humble adoration, thanking God for His immeasurable love and the redemption that is ours through Jesus’ precious blood.

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March 17th – Mark 16:15

Mark 16:15

The message of Easter, the triumph of Christ over sin and death, is too precious to keep to ourselves. It’s a message of hope, redemption, and eternal life. And one meant to be shared with everyone we encounter. That’s why in Mark we are given the call to go throughout the earth, sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. And to be living witnesses of His love and grace in our everyday lives. Whether it’s through sharing our testimonies, inviting others to church, or simply living out our faith with authenticity and compassion, we have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those around us. So in the spirit of Easter, let us pray for divine opportunities to share the hope and joy that we have found in Christ. To go forth, fulfilling the Great Commission boldly and courageously. Knowing that when we proclaim the Gospel and others receive Jesus as their Savior, lives will be changed, hearts will be transformed, and souls will be saved for the glory of God.

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March 16th – Psalm 101:2

Psalm 101:2

Christians around the world are celebrating Lent. Lasting from Ash Wednesday until Easter Sunday, for 40 days ( not counting Sundays) people fast, give up a bad habit, or restrict themselves in some other way. All done with the intent of repentance and restoration. But why do we need a religious holiday to lead such a life? Shouldn’t each day be an opportunity to rid our lives from things that cause us to stumble in our walk with God? David thought so. And in Psalm 101, he gives us practical ways and sound advice in removing our own obstacles. As a man after God’s own heart, (1 Sam. 13:14) David wanted to lead a life he could be proud of. One that glorified God. That meant behaving wisely, practicing self control, and walking with integrity. We too should have a desire to be free of all the garbage in our lives that keep us from walking closer with the Lord. And as the change of the season is almost upon us, what better time to do some spring cleaning, and sweep out the cobwebs of sin!

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March 15th – Romans 15:13

Romans 15:13

One of the apostle Paul’s deepest longings was that we as believers, experience the fullness of joy and peace that comes from the hope we have in Christ. A hope that is the very essence of Easter. When Christians around the world celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection, and the hope it brings for the future. For in Jesus we find assurance in the unyielding faithfulness of our Heavenly Father, who demonstrated His boundless love through the sacrificial death and triumphant Resurrection of His Son. Giving us a hope that isn’t fleeting or just wishful thinking. Instead it’s a steadfast confidence in the victory of Christ over sin and death, ensuring our redemption and eternal fellowship with God. A hope that sustains us in times of trouble, and one that reminds us how nothing can separate us from the love of God. A love manifested through Christ Jesus our Lord. So as we embrace the hope of Easter, may our hearts overflow with joy and peace, knowing that our future is secure in the hands of our faithful Savior.

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March 13th – Romans 5:8

Romans 5:8

The truth of the Gospel is a simple one. God, in His boundless love and grace, chose to send His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as a payment for the debt we owed. Once dead in our sins and eternally separated from God, through Jesus’ sacrificial death and triumphant Resurrection, we are reconciled back to our Heavenly Father. And even more wonderful, when we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we receive the gift of salvation. A gift not earned through our own efforts, but given freely from God’s love and grace. As we meditate on the profound significance of this truth, and get ready to celebrate Resurrection Day, may our hearts overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving. And may we be humbled by the fact that God’s love for us knows no bounds. How He willingly paid the ultimate price with the blood of His beloved Son to purchase us for His very own. So out of thankfulness, I pray our lives be a reflection of His love, as we seek to live in obedience and gratitude, forever transformed by the power of His grace.

March 13th – Romans 5:8 Read More »

March 8th – Luke 24:27

Luke 24:27

As Christian’s we have the comfort and joy of knowing we never walk alone. For as He did with His disciples, Jesus walks beside us, revealing Himself in wonderful and amazing ways. On the road to Emmaus, the disciples were broken hearted and confused at the death of Jesus. As they journeyed, the Lord joined them incognito, talking with them and revealing the mysteries of Scripture about Himself. It wasn’t until they sat down to share a meal, that their eyes were fully opened to recognize their beloved Friend and Savior. And just like He revealed Himself to the disciples through the Scriptures and the breaking of bread, Jesus continues to reveal Himself to us today through His Word and sacraments. When we study the Scriptures, and partake in the Lord’s Supper, He opens our eyes to His presence, truth, and grace. So as we walk our own road to Emmaus, may we each be attuned to His voice and presence, allowing Him to unveil His truth and resurrection power in our own lives.

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March 7th – Luke 24:6-7

Luke 24:6-7

Oh how Mary’s heart must have overflowed with joy as she discovered the empty tomb and encountered her beloved risen Savior. A joy that would ignite hope in the hearts of believers for generations to come. How wonderful to be greeted not with the lifeless body of Jesus, but by an angel happily declaring, “He is not here; He has risen!” This miraculous event stands as the cornerstone of our faith, a triumphant declaration of Christ’s victory over sin and death. Through His resurrection, Jesus shattered the chains of sin and conquered the grave, securing eternal life for all who believe in Him. The empty tomb is not a symbol of defeat but of unparalleled victory, and a beacon of hope that illuminates the darkness of despair. In Christ’s resurrection, we find assurance that death has been defeated and that new life is available to all who place their trust in Him. Let us all rejoice in the resurrection of our Savior. For in His triumph, we find hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.

March 7th – Luke 24:6-7 Read More »