At the start of Jesus’ passion week, we’re told in John 13:1 that He did something that showed His disciples the “full extent” of His love. He…wait! What? There is a “full extent” of Jesus’ love? Jesus has a limit on love? John 13-17 is one of the most intimate stretches of Scripture with regard to Jesus’ ministry. … [Read more...]
Experience the Peace of Easter
It’s striking that the first word out of Jesus’ resurrected mouth to His disciples was simply “Peace.” It could have been a lot of things. It could have been admonishment. It certainly could have been “I told you so!” But…it was “Peace.” Yes, “Peace be with you” was a standard greeting in Jesus’ day. But we have no … [Read more...]
After-Easter Peace
Imagine the disciples’ situation that first Easter weekend. They’d followed Jesus for three years. They depended on Him for guidance, even for daily things like food. They found His teaching irresistible. They were moved by His mercy and compassion. And they’d just watched Him die—at the hands of an angry mob they thought might … [Read more...]
TEEN DEVO: #tpoCriiy!
Of all the miracles in the Bible, in your opinion, what is the best (or your favorite) display of God’s power? Or, if you can’t decide, what are your top three? Digging In You’ve gotta admit, God has a lot of power. But His daily go-to power isn’t seen in miraculous healings or in the suspension of natural laws. … [Read more...]
The Power Words of Good Friday and Holy Saturday
While the Passion Week had its share of physical busyness, Good Friday and Holy Saturday were theologically busy. The moment Jesus uttered those heart-wrenching words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” is the moment Jesus bore the weight of the sin, a weight so grievous that even God had to turn away. It’s like God had … [Read more...]
5 Creative Reminders About the Power of the Resurrection
It’s been said that if the Devil can’t get you to sin, he’ll get you busy. The quickest path to an ineffective, unfruitful faith is busy, daily living. A distraction-filled life robs us of the strength we gain through an intimate walk with God. Further, it keeps us from tapping into a power source that is IN us: the power of … [Read more...]