Two men, who had incredible religious status in Jerusalem, chose to step out and identify with Jesus. After Jesus died, one of them requested of Pilot the body of Jesus so that He might honor Him with a proper burial. Pilot agreed to the request and these men respectfully brought Jesus to the grave. Their act of love would cost them their standing among their peers and leaves us a wonderful reminder of our need to identify with Jesus at home, at work and in our community.
Join us for our final part of the journey on Easter Sunday at 10:30am at watchGBC.com.
Today we travel to Calvary and remember the most loving and sacrificial event in all of human history. At Calvary, Jesus Christ bore in Himself the sin of all mankind and receiving the full wrath of God against sin. As we think of the incredible awful death that Christ died for us, may we respond with gratitude. If you have not yet received Christ, please trust in Him today. He is the only way to have your sins forgiven and to receive the free gift of eternal life. You can learn more about receiving Jesus in the book DONE.
In recent days we all have had our lives disrupted. Stores, restaurants and places we normally would visit are closed or greatly restricted leaving us with no option but to be home more. I am reminded that after busy seasons of ministry and activity, Jesus often led His disciples into a desert place away from everything for reflection, rest and prayer. Though we all look forward to this crisis passing, perhaps we should look at this as an opportunity to find a place away from everything to reflect, rest and draw closer to God. I wanted to suggest some books, internet radio stations and even a college course that might help you get the most out of this time at home.
While it is not clear from Scripture all that Jesus was doing on Monday and Tuesday of His Passion Week, it does seem that He spent time in Bethany on these days fellowshipping with friends like Simon the Leper, Lazarus and others. Among those friends was a woman who demonstrated extravagant love for her Savior. Though we do not know her name, her act lives on as a example for every believer. Jesus is worthy of our everything.
As we approach this Easter, it is my desire to take a special online journey with you through the passion week of Christ beginning with the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. That will be the subject of my Palm Sunday message. You can join us for that message at watchGBC.com at 10:30am (EST). Monday through Friday, I will post a video right here on my blog, at watchGBC.com and at our Facebook page. These videos will track the events of the passion week and give a brief devotional thought. I hope this journey will encourage you and motivate your love for Jesus Christ.
Those who garden know that growth requires a plan along with consistent care and effort. Spiritual growth is no different. As you prepare for 2020, may I encourage you to plan for spiritual growth. Remember, growth will not come easy. However, with some care and effort, it will come! Let me suggest some resources that you might find helpful for your spiritual growth in the New Year.
Josiah Kagin 