THE ROAD TO EASTER

2018

Contributors

Larry Clark

Marlene Clark

Christine Dickinson

Jason Dickinson

Phyllis Lee

Dave Matteson

Dr. Robert Morris

Amy Wolfe

Brent Wolfe

Keith Yoder

How to Use This Guide

Roads are useful because they lead us from one place to another.

This devotional is filled with 22 (plus one bonus) signs that lead down one road — a road leading us to the most significant event of all time, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The selected passages and devotional thoughts were written to help engage and prepare our hearts and minds this Easter season as we walk the road that leads to Easter.

Our hope and prayer is that God will use this daily guide to open our eyes and refresh our minds of the implications that Jesus’ death and resurrection has on our lives. Our prayer as well is that the Spirit may apply these words to our daily lives that we may be “doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22).

The best way to use this devotional guide is:

1. Read the passage listed at the top of the page.

2. Take a few moments and think about the passage.

3. Read the devotional thoughts written by our faith family at Granger MC.

4. Pray for God to use what you’ve read to begin to reshape your life and shape the rest of your day.

“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus . . . equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through

Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)

Grace and peace,

Granger MC Family

Sunday, March 11th

John 14:1-3

A PLACE FOR YOU It was Passion Week in Jerusalem. At least that is what Christians call the final week of Jesus’ life on earth. Jesus knew He was going to the Cross. He had announced to His disciples that He was going to leave them. Soon His assuring words to them would be: “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) To their fear-flooded minds, unnerved spirits and disquieted hearts Jesus spoke calming words designed to hold them steady as they walked the Road to Easter. They had never experienced an “Easter.” He said to them: “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:2,3) Yes! A place! As we walk the Road to Easter may we hear the same words of comfort from Jesus as He faced the horrific trial and scourging, the bitter sting of the cross, but a fantastic Easter morning … and empty tomb! A place … prepared! Then, and only then can we know with certainty that place is for us too!

A place where the bitter hours of human loneliness have been eternally banished by the forever-presence of the Loving Savior; A place where the tears of broken hearts have been gently and forever wiped away by the tender touch of the Triumphant Savior; A place where the chilling fear of death at the end of life has faded forever into the eternal victory of the Resurrected Savior; A place where the crying of the bitter tears of earth’s heartaches have been silenced and then transformed into songs of adoration given to the Gracious Savior; A place where pain and suffering because of earth’s diseases, sicknesses, and tragedies will never again plague the immortal bodies of those redeemed by the Magnificent Savior; A place void of cowardice, unbelief, cruelty, hatred, murder, immorality, false worship, idolatry, and lying because these will be cast forever into the lake of fire and brimstone by the Mighty Savior; A place where the darkness of earth’s bitter moments of sorrow has faded forever before the brilliant light of the glory of the Eternal Savior; A place where the thirsting sons and daughters of earth will never have a longing for a drink of cool water, because the fountain of living water will flow from the hand of the Living Savior; A place where the pangs of hunger will never be felt as the redeemed of all the ages partake of the fruit of the tree of life in the midst of the Garden of Glory, planted by the Creating Savior; A place where the broken hearts of those who suffered earth’s tragedies have been healed by the loving touch of the Gentle Savior; A place where there is no longer any need for the sun, the moon, and the stars to light the heavens, for there is no night there, and heaven’s light is the glory of God and the Beautiful Savior; A place where the nations of earth will no longer fight their wars of jealousy, pride, and greed, where peace reigns from the throne of the Sovereign Savior; A place where those who overcome by the blood of the Lamb, whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, the redeemed from all the ages, from every nation, tribe, and tongue, from every village, hamlet, and city, from every forest and plain, from every mountain and valley will be there to join in singing the eternal praises: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing! Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever!” (Revelation 5:12, 13b)

Dr. Robert Morris

Monday, March 12th

Hebrews 12:2

FOR THE JOY

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews 12:2

I began in 2017 signing most of my emails with "Keeping my hand in His and Serving Him with JOY!" I was motivated by my need for His help doing the Sunday prayer sheets and desiring the front side of them to encourage, challenge, and bring commitment to our prayer lives. I had found my purpose in ministering in this way. I have experienced many times of JOY from His help doing these prayer sheets. An amazing experience giving me lots of JOY.

As Easter approaches, I'm also reminded that Jesus' death on the cross was for me. Only where was His JOY in doing that?

He offered himself as a sacrifice for the sins of us all. But his thoughts were of the coming JOY in the future. He was willing to look beyond the suffering, the shame, the sorrow, and the terrible punishment of his death on the cross. Jesus knew that JOY was yet to come. He also looked forward to the JOY that would come through each of us, as we become obedient to God as a result of his obedience to God in going to the cross. His purpose would become even more complete each time one of us asks him for forgiveness for our sins and welcome him into our hearts. From there we share the JOY together! The Bible says there is great JOY in heaven whenever a sinner repents. (Luke15:10)

As followers of Jesus, what is our purpose? Could a very large part of it be to bring him JOY? To glorify God through his Son? To do the good works from Ephesians 2, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." And as a result, we can look forward with JOY, to hearing these wonderful words of great JOY, "Well done my good and faithful servant." It is an amazing thought that we are able to give our almighty God JOY! As we walk through the days that we celebrate Easter and remember the road Jesus walked to get there; let's also remember that the biggest JOY we can bring Jesus today is helping others find Jesus' gift of JOY for themselves. That can be our purpose as we keep our hands in His and Serve Him with JOY!

1. What brings you great joy?

2. How have you brought joy to the Lord recently?

3. What brings you joy when you think about Jesus?

Jesus, help me to keep my focus on doing that which brings you JOY!

Marlene Clark

Tuesday, March 13th

Mark 10:13-16 When Jesus told his disciples to let the children come to him, I doubt that anyone would realize that through the ages this Scripture would maintain great meaning. But much like many other words that Jesus spoke, there is always more meaning than what is seen on the surface. When I think about teaching the children in Sunday school, I often think of these words knowing that Jesus would want us to be faithful in teaching His Word to them. It is always my prayer that we would see children come to Jesus for salvation as we teach. Jesus warned that we are to "receive the Kingdom of God" like a little child. He certainly didn't mean for us to be childish, but He did mean for us to have childlike faith. This would be exhibited in simple trust. A child doesn't worry about their next meal, he assumes it will be provided by his parents. The child assumes that his caretakers will always be there to care for him. It is sad to realize that for some children the sense of simple trust is lost when parents and/or caregivers resort to unforgivable acts of agony in the treatment of their children. So, what does simple trust look like for an adult? I believe that as we exhibit traits like humility, givers of mercy and forgiveness to others, we are living in simple trust. We know that Jesus will provide what we need just at the time we need it. Our hours are not spent in worry but rather in honest prayer to the Lord. We know that God has a plan for our lives and he will work to see that plan to completion. Jesus warned the disciples and all mankind to not hinder the children from coming to Jesus. Society today provides many things for children, but those things often hinder the children from finding Jesus. Some of the things hindering children are: an overload of activities that don't include church, exposure to acts of violence on television and in video games, and not receiving discipline when it is needed. Hopefully, as the adults in our church, we can help children find Jesus and help their parents to fulfill their roles. The most encouraging words in this passage of Scripture is verse 16 where it says, "And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them." How wonderful it would feel to have Jesus place his hands on us and bless us. I believe that he does that every time that we reach out to him in prayer or in praise. As we lift our hands to him, he reaches out to us to show his love and to bless us.

“Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong, they are weak, but he is strong.”

Phyllis Lee

Wednesday, March 14th

Matthew 27:62-65; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42

THE STONES THAT TALK!

One day I made an off-the-cuff remark. I referred to a certain instance in my life that made me appear “about as dumb as a box of rocks.” A kind Christian gentleman verbally chastised me, noting that in the Bible even the rocks know Jesus, and probably better than we know Him. Thinking that through for a little while I confessed the error of my foolish statement! Rocks DO talk, and they say A LOT! These lifeless pieces of granite seem to be hard and uninviting. But in Scripture they are often the focal point of praise and honor to God, and many of them have powerful messages. On our Road to Easter we will confront one extraordinary stone. It talks! It cries out! Its message is powerful! In Genesis 31:49 Laban and Jacob built a heap of stones, and they called it Mizpah, signifying the covenant between them, meaning: “May the LORD watch between you and me when we are absent one from another.” He is the trustworthy God who faithfully keeps His covenants with His people. After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, “Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of the Jordan, in the place where the feet of the priests who bore the ark of the covenant stood (Joshua 4:9). He said these stones would “be for a Memorial to the children of Israel forever (Joshua 4:7). The Bible recounts an event in the life of Samuel, when he “took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the LORD has helped us (1 Samuel 7:12). On our Road to Easter we watch as Jesus entered Jerusalem in what we call The Triumphal Entry, or Palm Sunday. The crowd cried out “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!” (Luke 19:38) The Pharisees were offended and asked Jesus to rebuke his followers. He replied: “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out. (Luke 19:40). Joseph of Arimathea received permission from Pilate and took the dead body of Jesus, “wrapped [it] in a clean linen cloth” (Matthew 27:59), and laid in the tomb that was “hewn out of the rock” (Mark 15:46). Joseph of Arimathea “rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb (Matthew 27:60). Pilate’s instructions were carried out, for “they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard (Matthew 27:66). Sunday morning came! “There was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it” (Matthew 28:2). We can join Mary Magdalene as she “… went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb” (John 20:1). We too can hear the angel from heaven sitting on that huge stone, saying: “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead. (Matthew 28:5-7). Never again would anyone need to ask: “Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us? (Mark 16:3) That stone that covered the tomb’s entry cries out, declaring: HE IS RISEN! And it is Simon Peter, fully reconciled to Jesus, accepting Jesus’ commission to preach the Gospel, who declares to all:

“As you come to Him, the living Stone – rejected by human beings but chosen by God and precious to Him - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.’ Now to you who believe, this stone is precious.” (1 Peter 2:4-7; TNIV)

God’s Word declares that we as believers are like “living stones,” who like the stone guarding Jesus’ tomb, are to proclaim by lip and by life that “HE IS RISEN AS HE SAID … GO QUICKLY AND TELL.”

Dr. Robert Morris

Thursday, March 15th

Psalm 96:2-4, Matthew 28:18 Have you ever felt like you were experiencing a spiritual deficit? Have you ever felt like you wanted to see God move in your life? There have been times in my life that I have felt like I could conquer anything for the Lord, and there have been times of I have struggled to allow His joy to be my strength. There have also been times in the middle of those two extremes, where my spiritual walk was steady, yet I have desired a greater intimacy with Him. Years ago, I was given some advice during one of those spiritual-low times that I have held on to for over two decades. I had been home for a while after returning from a mission trip. On this mission trip, there were 25-30 believers surrounding me who desired to share Christ with others. They encouraged me through prayer and had a passion for serving the Lord. After coming home from a spiritual mountaintop experience like that, we often go through a spiritual slump. I asked a good friend of mine, “How can I get my zeal back for the Lord that I once had?” She told me, “Go share your faith!” That advice was given to me over 25 years ago! I have found that there IS such joy in telling the Good News! When sharing my faith, I receive a blessing knowing I’m fulfilling God’s purpose in ministry. Also, during those times of stepping out in faith, I have to rely on His power, which brings me closer to my Savior. Psalm 96:2-4 says, “Sing to the LORD; praise his name. Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods. What a perfect time this Easter season to proclaim the greatest story of all time. He came for us. He died for us. He rose for us. And he wants a relationship with us. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus came to his disciples and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” We share everything in our lives on social media about the various activities we do with our friends, but we often fail to share the Greatest Friend of all. I challenge you today, share your faith. Ask God to give you the spiritual eyes to see, the spiritual ears to hear the hurting, the lost. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the courage you need and words to say.

We praise you Lord Jesus for the sacrifice you made. God, give us the courage we need

to tell your story. Give us your eyes to see those who need you in their lives.

Amy Wolfe

Friday, March 16th

GOD DOESN’T CARE

Have you ever heard someone make statements in the midst of their turmoil, disaster, or heartache, “God just doesn’t care about me or my problems,” or, “I am not worth anything and am so bad that God forgot about me and doesn’t care?” Some persons also lament that “I am such a sinner that I am beyond help and God forgot or does not care about me anymore.” Gospel Trio member and Songwriter, Chris Allman of Greater Vision has even written a song entitled, “God Doesn’t Care.” The reality is that God DOESN’T care about our PAST life, sins, and transgressions. God knows HOW we have lived. He knows what we are guilty of, how BAD our sins have been, and all the shame we have. HE just wants to LOVE us. He can reach our deepest despair, so no matter WHAT we have done, GOD DOESN’T CARE. It is hard for us to understand the way God loves us, but HIS GRACE has covered our sins in a way that we can never understand. We must stand beneath the cross of Jesus and let His flowing blood cleanse us. He CARES about our current pain that weighs us down and things that break our hearts, about the tears we shed, but what He DOESN’T CARE ABOUT is our past. HE just wants to LOVE US---NOW. Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, and resurrection attest to the fact that God LOVES us and DOES care for us so much that His Son went through the agony FOR US, and by HIS GRACE we can FORGET OUR PAST as GOD DOESN’T CARE about it any longer.

Isaiah 43:25 (NIV) “I am He who blots out your transgressions and remembers your sins no more.”

Psalms 103:12 (NIV) “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

Hebrew 8:12 (NIV) “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Keith Yoder

Saturday, March 17th

Matthew 27:32-44 I remember my thoughts as I first saw the car, "It's ugly." The auto repair shop I worked at had just received a vehicle from the local high-performance shop in town. We were to align the suspension of this vehicle to handle high speeds. "There's no way," I thought. This big, old, black box couldn't beat my lawnmower. It didn't even sound powerful. This was my first impression of the fully modified, Buick Grand National that sat on our lot. However, I could not have been more wrong. I was invited to ride along on the test drive after the alignment process. Skeptical, I agreed. I still remember the jet-sounding scream of the spooling turbo and the weight in my chest as my surroundings blurred past me. This is the kind of car we call a "sleeper" - a vehicle whose power is far greater than it looks. However, once I experienced the power of the vehicle, I never doubted it again. For the chief priests, scribes, and elders, Jesus hanging on the cross had the appearance of powerlessness. They mocked what they thought was weak saying, "He saved others; he cannot save himself." However, they could not have been more wrong. They didn't see that the power that held Jesus to the cross was far greater than the power it would have taken Jesus to come down from it. Here is what I mean. Does it generally take more power to do an easy thing or a hard thing? Would it have been harder for Jesus to simply come down from the cross or remain on the cross, enduring suffering and death? So then, it would seem that Jesus actually demonstrated more power by remaining on the cross in selfless love, then by coming down from the cross for selfish gain. Interestingly, these men mocked what they needed. They misunderstood the power they saw. Jesus was actually saving others by not saving himself. If he had saved himself, he would not have been able to save anyone else. If these men had only experienced that power motivated by this selfless love they would likely never have questioned it again. Now the question turns to us. As we follow Jesus, do we deny ourselves and do the harder thing by loving others? We can through the power of the Holy Spirit. The same power that held Jesus to the cross. Would you follow the example of Jesus and be a "sleeper" - surprising others with the power of selfless love?

Thank you, Jesus, for demonstrating power motivated by selfless love. Teach me to love others in the same way — to deny myself and love others in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Jason Dickinson

Sunday, March 18th

Matthew 26:36-46

THE LEGACY OF THE GARDEN

When we travel the Road to Easter we will walk with Jesus and His disciples into the quiet night shadows of the Garden of Gethsemane. Gethsemane means the oil press where the olives were crushed to extract the oil. There in the place of crushing the silence of the night shadows was broken by His praying to the Father in heaven. The Garden became a place of depression for Jesus. The Scripture states: "He began to be very sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, 'My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death." (vv 37, 38) The agony of His heart was real, as is ours at times! But that same Garden also became a place of desertion. After He had struggled in the darkness of the Garden and had spilled out the contents of His heart to His Father, He rose and returned to the disciples, only to find them asleep. He said to them: "Could you not watch with Me one hour?" (v 40) Sometimes even those closest to us seem to drift away, and we no longer feel their support. For Jesus, the Garden became a place of desperation. Matthew's account is clear: "He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words." (v 44) Hear Him as He pleads over and over again, "O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me." (v 39) Life's pressures often place us in a moment of desperation and we plead for release. But for Jesus, that same Garden became a place of deliverance. Not deliverance from, but deliverance to! Jesus said to the sleepy disciples, "Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand." (v 46) The quiet of the Garden was broken. Along the twisting trails, with their lanterns and torches like giant fireflies, and with swords and clubs, and the slinking Judas at the head, came the squadron of troops to assist the officers of the Temple to arrest Jesus. Strange that they needed lanterns and torches to find the Light of the World! He would now be delivered to Calvary where the last drop of soul-healing oil was crushed from the Son of God. That would not be the final destiny. For the first day of the week would come … now delivered from! An Empty Tomb! Hallelujah! Yes, it was in the Garden of Gethsemane, the place of crushing, where Jesus said to His Father, “… nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” In the English language Christians have many beautiful words they attach to their relationship with God, such as peace, joy, happiness, love, mercy, and grace, and many more. But the Legacy of the Garden is found in the most beautiful word in the entire scope of language. In the Authorized, or King James Version, it is Nevertheless! Some translations use the word Yet! Either translation of that little four-letter word in the Greek text will bring the same joy to our hearts. For without that one word all the other frequently used words would have very little real meaning. As we travel the Road to Easter, let’s walk along those same twisting trails in the Garden where He was crushed, and hear Him say again, “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will,” knowing that He alone paid the price that we might have eternal peace, joy, happiness, love, mercy and grace. That one word has become the Legacy of the Garden for us, delivering us from a life of sinfulness to a life of triumphant, overcoming victory.

Dr. Robert Morris

Monday, March 19th

1 Corinthians 15:1-5

THE BEDROCK FOUNDATION OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

The foundation of any building or structure is key to the ultimate success of the entire project. Will it stand the stress of freezing and thawing as the temperature soars or plunges? Will it support the weight of all that is intended to be ultimately carried there? Will the foundation allow the structure to stand un-movable in the fiercest storm, hurricane, or tornado?

Long before construction begins the architects and engineers have taken core samples, made extensive calculations and concluded that all possible risks have been fully calculated.

The Master Architect and Builder of the Christian Faith made the calculations in eternity past, knowing precisely the means and the cost to carry out His plans to redeem what He knew would become a compromised and fallen Creation.

The Apostle Paul expressed so beautifully and succinctly in I Corinthians 15:3-4, "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received:

1* “Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures,

2* He was buried,

3* He was raised on the third day according to the scriptures." NA5B

I go to I Corinthians 15 quite frequently, and I've marked in my mind and in my Bible those three affirmations as the "Bedrock Foundation of the Christian Faith.”

I can have a friendship with most anyone, but when I meet someone for the first time and in in a few brief moments of conversation find that the person is a fellow-believer, there is an instant bond that is best described as "fellowship" which goes way beyond just friendship! Those experiences are so special, and the relationships become "rock solid" too.

Dave Matteson

Tuesday, March 20th

Matthew 27:45

IT IS FINISHED

“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”

Matt. 27:45

Today it would be rare for someone not to know someone who has experienced cancer in some form.

Cancer does not seem to pick and choose whose body it’s going to invade. It is a diagnosed disease among all walks of life - both adults and children. Momentarily their lives seem so out of control. We have seen loved ones personally go through chemotherapy or radiation treatments riddled with bad side-effects. This is a life-changing disease that could attack their biblical faith and separate them from their source of strength. But for the believer, there was always hope of defeating this dreaded enemy.

What motivated them to go through those treatments? Was it most likely the hope of completing what was necessary to be a winner when it was finished? But even when they are declared cancer free, most find that the battle continues on in a new way, a battle with fear in their mind. The fear was, “What if the cancer returns?”

When Jesus walked the road to the cross, He was battling a life-threatening “cancer” called sin. Every living person has this form of cancer. Doctors cannot treat it with chemotherapy or radiation in order to cure it. The side-effects of this cancer when not treated effect the person and everyone around them. It puts them in a very dark place. One of the dangers of this cancer is that it can go undetected by the person for years. If no one tells them about this cancer in their lives and they never hear the “good news” of the one and only cure, they will live forever with the results of this cancer.

Jesus knew the purpose of his life on earth was to bring a “permanent cure.” His walking this road to the cross would lead to the coming of the Holy Spirit. Did he struggle with being the cure for this cancer? Yes, he did! You hear his heartfelt struggle in the words he cried out from the cross in Matt. 27:46, “From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?’--which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’”

The cure is Jesus, and it became available to everyone one of us when Jesus cried from the cross “IT IS FINISHED!” He gave us the Holy Spirit to keep us in remission.

1. What do you see as your responsibility to help others fight the cure for the cancer of sin?

2. Will you share how you’ve personally been cured of the sin-cancer?

3. Have you thanked Jesus for his walk to the cross?

Thank you, God, for sending us a permanent cure for our cancer.

Marlene Clark

Wednesday, March 21st

Mathew 6:25-34, Isaiah 53 PROVISION

Our children learn the different sounds of the letters of the alphabet through association. A is for apple, B is for bat, and C is for cat. But as we draw our thoughts to Christ and the Father, we see that P stands for provision. The one thing I hate more than any other chore around the house including dishes and laundry is paying bills. I can think of nothing more painstaking then that. When unexpected expenses hit the home, and the bills start to come in, our reaction sometimes is to question whether God is truly there. When we look around and see those around us seemingly doing well, having lots of toys, while we struggle to keep the heat on. We look around evaluating our situation by comparing ourselves to others. We often times miss the very fact that God has provided for us in his great love towards us. Having witnessed time and time again the faithfulness of God to provide for my family’s every need. Times when I couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, and lost sleep over things I couldn’t control; things like sickness, storms damaging the house, a leaky basement. “Time after time” to quote the famous theologian Cindy Lauper; God pulled us through. My trust was in him, his provision. I love what Matthew 6:31-32 says, “So do not worry saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What Shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly father knows that you need them.” God is not unaware of our needs. His provision goes way beyond meeting our physical needs. It reaches the very depths of our soul as he has made provision for our sins to be forgiven through his son Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53 is a passage of scripture known mostly for the image of a suffering servant. It is a picture of the greatest provision of all. It is the substitutionary work of Christ to take on not just our punishment for sin but the punishment of all sin for all time. There has never been or never will be a greater act of provision. Christ in John 15:13 reminds us that “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” How great is the love of God that he has provided everything that we could ever need! Today as you are going about your day, paying bills, taken the car to the shop, visiting the doctor, Remember to Thank God for his Provision in the past. Also acknowledge his provision for the present. And thank Jesus for his ultimate Provision which brings you eternal life!

Dear Jesus, I thank you that you have given me Life, and that abundantly. Help me to have a thankful heart that rejoices in you always. Even when you seem far away I will place my trust in you and your faithfulness. For

great is your faithfulness! Great is your faithfulness! Great things you have done! Lord, unto me!

Brent Wolfe

Thursday, March 22nd

Mark 14:66-72 Ah, the infamous passage that makes very pious follower of Christ shake their heads in shame at being counted among the likes of Peter. Peter's denial of Christ -- not one of his finer moments. (34)

Truth be told, most of us have the luxury of NOT having our most disappointing moments recorded down in the annuls of history for all generations to read. Yet those moments are there -- more moments in my life than I care to recall. (43)

First, let's look at the denial. As a pastor's wife, I must admit, it's rather difficult for me to outright deny any knowledge of The Lord Jesus Christ. But have I laughed at things I shouldn't in order to fit in? Yes. Have I agreed with unbiblical thinking or advice to fit in a little better? Sure. Have I ignored the Holy Spirit when He has prompted me to speak up just so that I wouldn't seem "weird"? You bet. And every time, it was as if I said, "You know, Jesus, You're really great in private, but let's not get crazy. Maybe we could be secret friends!" (108)

Now, let's look at Peter's only hope for recovery. What made Peter's story end differently from Judas's? Both were filled with remorse. Both certainly shed tears over their behavior. However, Judas took it a step further and denied Christ's POWER -- the power to forgive, the power to cleanse, and the power to employ the contrite spirit for His use. Mary Pickford once said, "Supposing you have tried and failed again and again. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down." (97)

Which camp do you find yourself in? Believe me, it is tempting to believe that God can't forgive you . . . again. But what glorious victory for the kingdom when a broken vessel chooses to believe that God can, and will, forgive.

Lord, thank You for being a God of second chances. Your kindness leads us to repentance. Please let us not believe the serpent's lies that we can be of no more use to You when we fall. Empower us by Your Holy Spirit

to rise up and claim victory in Your name. Amen.

Christine Dickinson

Friday, March 23rd

GOD CARES FOR YOU

Have you ever been stranded alone in a foreign country without adequate communications, sick, and wondering what to do, what will happen to you, and how should you go for help? I recently was in that situation when removed from a Cruise Ship for medical reasons to a small Hospital in small country thousands of miles away. While lying on a small ER cot, not knowing what would happen to me, and IF my wife and I would be able to return to the ship before it left the port, I was overwhelmed with thoughts of what would happen to us, and How I could care for my wife while in my condition. As she sobbed, and I quietly prayed for help and answers, God’s Holy Comforter suddenly spoke to my thoughts and said, “I will NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU” (Heb. 13:5), and with that a ‘Peace’ came over me as I have never experienced nor have since. I then also remembered I Peter 5:17, which told me to “Cast ALL your anxiety (cares) on Him because HE cares for you.” When Jesus was teaching his disciples and trying to instruct them concerning his upcoming departure from them and the need for his death, he told them that “It is for your GOOD that I go away, unless I go away the Counselor (Comforter, Holy Spirit) will NOT come, but IF I go, I WILL SEND HIM to you.” (John 16:7) Through His death, resurrection, and ascension back to Heaven, Jesus has provided us a means to be assured that HE cares for us and is watching over us in EVERYTHING that we do. He DOES CARE for us.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

Keith Yoder

Saturday, March 24th

Matthew 21:1-11 The Triumphal Entry -- a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma. If a king is going to enter a city, you would expect some preparation on the part of the people, wouldn't you? Maybe an Entry Planning Committee. Some well-fashioned flags, perhaps a choreographed dance. At least a decked-out camel. But no, our King comes in, riding on a rented donkey -- a beast of burden. And the people's response is spontaneous. There has been no preparation. So they throw down what they have -- palm branches and cloaks.

And let's listen to what the people are shouting. "Hosanna!" "Lord, save us!" Those fickle, fickle people. Oh, how those cries would change. I doubt they knew that in a few days, when Christ didnt overthrow the government and mete out justice for all, their shouts would turn to "Crucify Him!" But here's the amazing twist -- the ultimate "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20) -- He would save them. Despite their ignorance, malice, and hatred, He would save them. His very death would pay the price to purchase their salvation. It didn't come they way they had hoped or expected, but it came just the same.

How often is that true of us? We respond like the crowd. Life doesn't go the way we planned. People don't respond the way we expected. Circumstances don't line up according to our desires. And we flip. Fickle, fickle us. We go from shouting His praise to cursing His name. And all the while, He knows the outcome -- the good that is intended for us.

You do realize we get a second chance to get this whole entry thing right, don't you? Our King is coming again. This time riding on a white horse. Will you be ready?

Lord, you are the Almighty King of the ages. Please help me to recognize Your sovereignty every minute of every day. Keep my heart faithful, for You are so faithful to me.

Christine Dickinson

Sunday, March 25th

Matthew 26:51; Mark 14:47; Luke 22:50-51; John 18:1-10

THE MALCHUS EVENT: THE COMPASSIONATE CHRIST Jesus performed many miracles during His earthly ministry. One of those miracles was performed as Jesus walked the bitter road to Calvary. It happened in the Garden of Gethsemane just after His prayer of commitment to the Father’s will. He faced the angry mob sent to arrest Him. When we read the four Scripture passages at the heading of this devotional we find the story of the servant of the High Priest losing an ear! Only John the Beloved identifies the man Malchus as that servant. Further, it is only John who identifies Simon Peter as the disciple who whipped out his sword and severed the ear of Malchus. While the setting for the miracle that followed is found in each of the four Gospels, only the Beloved Physician Luke so beautifully calls attention to the unconditional compassion of Jesus as He healed the severed ear of Malchus. The major focus of this interesting entry in the record found in all four Gospels is not on a man named Peter whose impulsive attempt to defend Jesus flashed with lightning speed to cut off a man’s ear. No! The focus is on Jesus, the God Who cares! He was not an opportunist, doing something to prove His power in order to fend off the troops…just the God Who cares! His was not an act of desperation, diverting attention away from His accusers to avoid being arrested…just the God Who cares! The dynamic emphasis must focus on the caring, compassionate heart of Jesus. A man who was part of an entourage sent to arrest Jesus as He walked the bitter road to Calvary was now standing before Him, bleeding, hurting, and in all probability frightened. The compassionate heart of Jesus could not let him continue in that state. He gently touched the man’s ear and healed him. Can we imagine the report of the Captain of the troops as he reported to Caiaphas? The dialogue may have gone something like this: Caiaphas: “ I see you were successful in arresting that rabble-rouser from Nazareth! How did it go?” Captain: “Well, fine, I suppose, but something troubled me, and still does!” Caiaphas: “Just what is it that troubles you?” Captain: “Everything went according to plans, except for that ear.” Caiaphas: “What ear? What do you mean?” Captain: “Well, this big fellow, ‘Peter’ I think they call him, took out a sword…quick as lightning…and cut off the right ear of your servant Malchus. We might have expected some resistance, but it was not the resistance that bothers me. It’s that ear.” Caiaphas: “What do you mean…that ear?” Captain: “That fellow called ‘Jesus’ was calm and caring. He just picked up the ear and put it back on the servant’s head like it had never been cut off…no blood, no scar…Yes, Sir, I saw it! It’s that ear that bothers me! I can’t look at the servant Malchus without being troubled at just why we had to arrest Jesus Who healed that ear. Malchus is a man with a miracle ear.” Caiaphas: “Well…forget it…we have Him now!” Captain: “I can’t! It’s that ear…it troubles me! The Man Jesus was different. It was difficult to arrest Him. I can’t get over that ear…it still troubles me!” As we walk the Road to Easter, we too may be hurting, lonely, weary, frightened, perplexed … but remember Jesus IS the God Who cares! Reach out to Him… the Compassionate Christ.

Dr. Robert Morris

Monday, March 26th

Mark 14:32 – 37 The disciples lived in close contact with Jesus. They had accepted his call to follow him and do his ministry. Yet, when it came to Jesus asking them to “Stay here and keep watch” they failed to fulfill this request. Jesus knew that the road ahead of him would be filled with great suffering, so he wanted to call on God the Father to give him the strength to finish that for which he came to earth. It was also Jesus’ desire to have the disciples to keep watch or to pray just as he was praying. But the disciples could not stay awake in Gethsemane to pray at the most crucial time in the life of Jesus. How often do we find ourselves in situations where we know we need to “stay here and keep watch?” When we can do this, we will sense the Holy Spirit surrounding us and enabling us to cry out to the Lord for our needs or the needs of others. One day many years ago, I stood at the bedside of my infant niece as she struggled to live through the pneumonia and high fever that raged in her body. As I prayed, I suddenly felt a presence in the room. I opened my eyes and looked around, but no one was there. Then I heard a voice saying, “the baby will live.” At that point I recognized the Presence in the room was that of the Holy Spirit. Not all cries of agony are answered the same. Some years later I prayed for the same niece as she struggled through cancer and the additional attack of a flesh-eating bacteria that was bringing her to the brink of death. I wanted so badly to feel the Presence again. But it was not to happen, and she was taken home, hopefully to the arms of Jesus. Where is your “stay here and keep watch” place? Perhaps it is in your workplace, in your home with your family, in your church, in your mission field, or wherever you find yourself when a need is expressed. Each one of us needs to be in tune with what the Lord is asking us to do. When he wants us to keep watch and pray, we need to do as he asks. Praying is not easy work, but it is certainly rewarding work when we pray for the Lord’s will in every situation. If we aren’t in the practice of praying on a regular basis then it will be more difficult to pray at the crucial times of our lives.

Lord Jesus, may I come to you in prayer every day not to form a habit but to form a relationship with you. Then when you call me to “stay here and keep watch” I will be prepared. Forgive me when I have missed

these opportunities in the past. May each future opportunity be met with an obedient spirit in my heart. In Your Name, Amen.

Phyllis Lee

Tuesday, March 27th

Luke 23:33-37

FORGIVEN? REALLY??

Visualize the scene. The long procession-soldiers, condemned prisoners, the legalese, a few family and friends, enemies delighted to finally see "justice" carried out (and we always want that, of course). There is a huge cortege of thrill seekers, idle- "nothin' else to do today" and "wow! this is really a big deal today, isn't it!" Anyway, you get the picture. Before everybody gets to "The Skull" and fills the whole area, the soldiers have already carried out their assigned duties and three holes have been dug in the clay. Three men have been nailed (literally) to three wooden crosses; the crosses have been raised and dropped with a thud into the hole dug for each.

On the center cross Jesus hangs suspended between earth and heaven, blood flowing from the multiple untreated wounds inflicted by the horrific beatings. In these circumstances, in this condition the lips of the Man on the center cross begin to move...He has something to say. Does He actually have the physical strength remaining to give voice? A murmur, perhaps? Surely not full voice. Luke was there, and he recorded the unbelievable words for all who would hear:

"Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." As I ponder the scene and the words, questions tumble about in my mind:

With all that has transpired in the last 24 hours, how or why would He even make such a request?

Could or should this monstrous act ever be forgiven? Did the Father grant the Son's request?Were the perpetrators actually forgiven at that time? Were they forgiven later?

How could they possibly NOT KNOW what they were doing?

I'll leave those questions for you to think on.

Many, many years ago (think "cassette tapes;” I loved to listen to David and Dana Blue singing the refrain "There's room at the cross for you, there's room at the cross for you! Though millions have come, there's still room for one, yes, there's room at the cross for you."

The music, the message, and a very special memory of a conversation still echo in my mind and my heart. I'm one among those millions who found there was room for me! And still there is room!

Dave Matteson

Wednesday, March 28th

Luke 23:39 – 43 Matthew 28:18-20

WHICH CRIMINAL ARE YOU?

Have you ever wondered how it must have been for the two criminals who were hung on a cross on both sides of Jesus? I’m sure everyone communicated daily events just like we do today – not by television or telephone, but the word traveled with individuals sharing what they either saw or heard about things Jesus had done or was doing.

Throngs of people followed Jesus wherever he went, surely the criminals heard about Jesus healing the sick, the blind, the mute, a paraplegic, feeding five thousand people on a hillside, casting out demons, and raising people from the dead, maybe they even knew who Lazarus was, and these are only a few on the things they may have heart about.

But their personal contact with Jesus most likely came when they were sentenced to be hung on the cross for crimes they had committed. Crimes they knew they were guilty of.

As Jesus was suffering in His last hour, one of the criminal hurled insults saying, “Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!" The other criminal said, “Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he turned to Jesus and asked, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." To which Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

Even during Jesus’ crucifixion, God had opened the door for them to accept His Son, Jesus. Jesus’ life was still a testimony to those criminals. They both had a choice to make.

Now today, we too have a choice to make.How seriously do we take those instructions Jesus gave to the disciples of the Great Commission, we too are to follow their example, “Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."?

Father, my heart is heavy because I have loved ones I know that it you were to come today they would not be taken. Just like the criminal who hurled insults you gave him a free will to accept or reject Jesus. Help me be your disciple to plant a seed and through the working of the Holy Spirit, see the unsaved ask Jesus into their lives.

1. Do you know someone who mocks and scorns Jesus?

2. Name some ways you can be a disciple for Jesus.

Larry Clark

Thursday, March 29th

Matthew 26:30-35; 69-75; Mark 14:26-31; 66-72; Luke 22:31-34; 54-62; John 13:31-38; 18:15-27

THE CROWING OF THE ROOSTER

The dark shadows of yesterday began to slip away quietly as the light of the eastern sky began its trek over the horizon to announce in Jerusalem that another day was coming. But that new day would not be like any other. Jerusalem was alive with activity. The noisy streets were already busy with crowds of people talking about a serious event, the arrest of the Nazarene who was called Jesus. His close followers were not to be seen, that is all except Simon Peter. He stood in the darkness of the night near a fire observing what was happening to Jesus, and to get some warmth, for the night was chilly. To a young lady who thought she recognized him, Peter denied that he knew Jesus. To a part of the angry crowd he also denied knowing Jesus. And to a servant of the high priest and also a relative of Malchus whose ear Peter had severed but Jesus healed, Peter likewise denied knowing the Nazarene. High on the pinnacle of a nearby building or atop a tall fence post, that bugler of the barnyard heralded the dawning of a new day. The rooster crowed. Each of the four Gospels includes Jesus’ prediction that before the rooster would crow, Peter would deny Jesus three times. Likewise, each of the four Gospels records the three times that prophecy was fulfilled. It is the Beloved Physician Luke who expresses the account so clearly:

“While he (Peter) was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord … (and) Peter went out and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:60-62)

“A rooster crowed, and Peter remembered…” (Matthew 26:75) The Bible declares that Peter remembered the prophetic statement of Jesus to him: “…even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” (Mark 14:30) Yes, Peter remembered His authority … at the crowing of the rooster. Perhaps another scene raced into Peter’s memory. It was that night storm, with frightened disciples, and Jesus asleep in the stern of the small boat. They awakened Him, and “He arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace, be still!’ And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39) And Peter remembered His sovereignty … at the crowing of the rooster.Flashing through his mind there was surely that high moment when Jesus asked the disciples: “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” And then He asked: “But who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:13, 15) Yes, it was Peter who responded and said “You are the Christ, the son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16) In that moment Peter remembered His deity … at the crowing of the rooster. What else did Peter remember? Perhaps a mountain scene rushed through his memory … that day when Jesus took him, along with James and John, and on a high mountain “He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light.” (Matthew 17:2) And Peter remembered His glory … at the crowing of the rooster. And again, Peter could well have remembered that day, the Triumphal Entry, when Jesus entered into Jerusalem riding on the foal of a donkey, and the crowds shouted “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:9) Peter remembered His majesty … at the crowing of the rooster. Peter could never forget those words of Jesus to him: “Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” (Luke 22:31, 32) In that solemn moment when the eyes of Jesus focused on him, piercing his very heart, Peter remembered His unfailing love … at the crowing of the rooster. And may we too remember how He walks with us, talks to us, comforts us, strengthens us, encourages us, holds us, and loves us unconditionally! When the rooster crows, may God help us to remember!

Dr. Robert Morris

Friday, March 30th- Good Friday

Matthew 26:36-45

GETHSEMANE

Jesus knew his crucifixion was near. He knew Judas would betray him and he would be falsely arrested, he knew he would be flogged, mocked, and that a crown of thorns would be forced on his head. He knew the cross was ahead of him where he would be crucified. Jesus turned to PRAYER in his darkest hour.

We too also need to turn to PRAYER in our darkest hours.

His need of SUPPORT in that PRAYER was also shown in verses 36 – 37. Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."

Jesus clearly wanted their SUPPORT in his darkest hour. We too need the SUPPORT of other believers in our darkest hours.

Verses 38,39,42,44 are key verses in this portion of Scripture we need to ponder over.

“Then he said to them, ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’ Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will . . . “ He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." When

he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. 44So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. Notice in verse 39 Jesus says, “If it is possible may this cup be taken.” Then we read in verse 42 Jesus says, “If it is not possible, may your will be done.”

When Jesus went to the garden of Gethsemane with his disciples we learn just how important PRAYER and SUPPORT were to him and how important it should be to us.

1. Who do you know and could pray for that may be going through their darkest hours?

2. Why do you feel the Father wants us to pray in our darkest hours?

Father, thank you for the direct line we have with You through prayer. Anytime, anywhere you are there. As we continue our spiritual journey

through life, may we realize how important prayer is. Thank you, Jesus, for your example in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Larry Clark

Saturday, March 31st

John 14:19-21

WHERE IS GOD WHEN WE NEED HIM? In life’s most critical moments even those who walk closely with Jesus experience the temptation that flaunts itself in an indescribable fury: “Where is God when I need Him most?” Let me share from a Pastor’s heart a response to that question. I will never forget that morning when the tranquility of the day was shattered by a telephone call. Her husband had passed away, suddenly, without the normal notice created by a lingering illness. We left the quiet of our home and drove to the home of a grieving lady. We sat for a few moments in the solemn shadows of her sorrowing heart. The tears in her eyes magnified the hurt of her heart as she relayed to me the sudden death of one so close to her heart. Concluding her heart-breaking report she asked: “Where is God when I need Him?” My mind raced through all I had learned in College and Seminary and had experienced as a Pastor, in an attempt to find a consoling answer. Was there such an answer? I don’t know. But answer I must! My heart cried out to God, and I began to speak, knowing that my answer had come from the heart of God. My beloved wife and I held the hands of a broken-hearted lady and I began to speak. I recall it so well, for we returned to our home and I wrote it down, and I now share it with you. Where is God, you ask? He is in the same place He was when He watched the horror of His own Beloved Son bound with strong ropes, and being scourged mercilessly. He is in the same place He was when He watched cruel hands drive nails through the tender, compassionate hands…hands that embraced little children, hands that touched blind eyes, hands that broke bread and fish to feed thousands. He is in the same place He was when the mighty earth shook convulsively as its Creator hung His head and died. He is in the same place He was when the dark shadows of earth’s sorrow hung in silence over a stone grave that held the body of His Beloved Son. He is in the same place He was when the light of the morning dawn began to creep up the eastern horizon, and the shadows of the night slipped silently away to their resting place. He is in the same place He was when the stone guarding the grave rolled back and the Triumphant One walked out, never to die again. He is in the same place as He was when the Mighty Christ proved once for all His own prophecy:

“Because I live, you too shall live!” Where is God? He is on His throne in eternal glory, approachable, available, and always willing to touch our hearts with His comforting love, His sustaining grace, and His unfailing strength. Reach out! Let Him touch you. You’ll see! It’s true! He is with you, just as He said…always! There it is! In that moment the God of the broken heart stepped down, laid His mighty hand on the aching heart of that dear lady, and poured His comforting grace into her life. As we travel the Road to Easter, the words of the Resurrected Jesus pulsate through our hearts and lives in every situation. Hear Him over and over again and again: “Because I live, you too shall live!” He is alive and well, ministering grace to all who come to Him by faith, redeeming the penitent from the guilt and power of sin, assuring His followers of the promise He made: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Dr. Robert Morris

Sunday, April 1st - Resurrection Sunday

1 Corinthians 15:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 21:3-7; 22-23; 22:5

AND NOW CHRIST IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD

“The Lord is risen.” “He is risen indeed.” Those are historically the Easter morning greetings given by Christians to one another as they gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. There is such a paucity in the English language when it comes to embracing all that those words mean. But try we do. Usually we do so in tiny bits of eternal truth. We express them with joy and confidence. It is without reservation that we believe in the glorious resurrection of Jesus. We embrace what that means for all who have placed their faith and trust in and full reliance on His triumph over sin, death, and hell. We rest in our hearts because there is forgiveness for all our sordid past, peace to our troubled hearts and minds, strength to walk the pathways God has set before us, confidence in His provision and promise for our eternal life in glory … these and many more blessings are ours because He lives! As we walk the Road to Easter this year, let’s reflect on and cling to some of God’s provisions and promises for our tomorrows. After reading the Scripture references listed above, return to this part of the devotional and begin praising God. Because He lives … the voice of the Archangel will be heard around the universe; Because He lives … the trumpet of God will sound announcing His return for His own; Because He lives … eternal vibrations will be felt in every Christian grave; Because He lives … the grave of every Christian will be opened wide; Because He lives … the molecules and atoms of every Christian who died in faith will come together; Because He lives … the body of every Christian who died in faith will rise from his or her earthly grave; Because He lives … the dead in Christ will soar in the air to be united with their eternal souls and spirits; Because He lives … all remaining believers on earth will be caught up together with them in the air; Because He lives … all the saints of the ages will be united with Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords; Because He lives … all whose faith is in Jesus will all gather together in glory to sing Worthy is The Lamb; Because He lives … the eternal glory of heaven will be enjoyed by all who have put their faith in Jesus; Because He lives … all Christians will be the bride of Christ, and forever enjoy His magnificent presence; Because He lives … the redeemed people of God will live together, never again to be separated; Because He lives … all tears will be wiped away by the tender hand of the Lamb of God; Because He lives … there will never again be any pain, sorrow, sickness, or heartache; Because He lives … the believers of all the ages will live forever in the land of fadeless day; Because He lives … the light of the resurrected Lamb of God will shine forever for there is no night there. Because He lives … the saints of all the ages will join in singing Worthy is the Lamb to receive riches, and

glory, and power, now and forever more.

Dr. Robert Morris

Monday, April 2nd (Bonus) Revelation 1:12-18 Today’s passage paints a picture of the risen Jesus, although not the one where Jesus freshly emerges from the tomb. Still, this picture is directly connected to Easter. It’s a picture that none of us has seen, but one which all of us will one day be a part. So, take a minute, re-read the passage, close your eyes, and imagine the scene. What you see is an awesome picture of Jesus. This is not the picture of Jesus as a lowly peasant from an unknown little village; this is the picture of Jesus as the risen King! His shape resembles a man yet is wholly different. His hair is pure white suggesting he is all-wise. Nothing escapes the holy flame of his gaze, and he is as unshakable as the strongest foundation. His voice roars with the sound of authority, the very sound of Almighty God (Ezek. 43:2). He holds command over all the angels, and speaks and judges only what is true. The very sight of him is blinding and forces your gaze away. It is not long before your knees buckle before such a picture of power, position, and authority. This is not the picture of Jesus you remember from the flannel graph.

Yet while the picture of Jesus has changed, his character has remained the same. From your place in the dirt you feel the gentle touch of the hand that holds the universe together in conjunction with the most loving command you could hear, “Fear not.” Really? The very sight of his power lays you flat, the intensity of his holiness exposing every dark corner of your life, and you’re supposed to “Fear not?” This would make no sense if you hadn’t heard his next words, “I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.” As you lay as one dead, expecting the same, the One who lives forever reminds you that He has died so you don’t need to, and He lives forever and offers you life. It is he alone who is able to say to you in the face of death, in the face of life, in the face of a holy God, “Fear not.”

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

Jesus, we worship you.

Jason Dickinson

grangermc.com