This Holy Week is an opportunity to reflect on Jesus and to consider if we are fully trusting and believing all that he said and, more, all that he did for us at the cross and at his resurrection. 

Holy Wednesday is another opportunity for confession and repentance. Are there areas of your life that you keep hidden that are not in line with the life of a follower of Christ?

As we move together through Holy Week, we have an opportunity to hear the words of Jesus with fresh ears.

We sometimes forget that Jesus felt many of the same emotions. Maybe he felt some of the joy and excitement of Palm Sunday, but the reality hit on Monday when he walked into the temple and confronted how little spiritual intensity was there.

Jesus’ call to “follow me” is about action, not personality type. God equips all types of people for ministry; our role is to imitate Jesus’ steps and respond in obedience.

Jesus’ ministry was marked by presence, engagement, and care. Before we seek to reach the nations, we’re called to notice the needs in our neighborhoods and act with love, patience, and compassion.

From withdrawing to grieve John the Baptist’s death to feeding thousands, Jesus showed intentionality in His time. By adopting a similar rhythm of rest, prayer, and service, we can minister effectively without burning out.

As Christ lives within us, we’re called to reflect His love—because we may be someone’s closest encounter with Him today.

Jesus promises that those who ask, seek, and knock will receive from their Heavenly Father. While our prayers are not always answered the way we expect, we can trust that God gives what is best. As the perfect giver, He lovingly provides exactly what we need.

In every generation, God’s people are called to reflect His light by loving Him completely and loving others as He first loved us.

The kingdom of God is not a destination but a way of life. When we repent and allow Jesus to reign as Lord, His ways shape our words, attitudes, and actions.

Matthew shows Jesus as the fulfillment of Moses, offering not just commandments but a transformed way of life. The Beatitudes call us to reject worldly values and embrace the counter-cultural path of God’s kingdom.

Remember, the enemy is subtle and seeks to confuse and distort God’s word. Whatever temptation, crisis, or burden we face next, our best path forward is to read the word of God, pray the word of God, and trust the word of God.

What good is it to set people in groups of fifty when we have nothing to feed them? Jesus didn’t say, “Because I said so,” yet the disciples figured out it was best to just trust Jesus to solve the problem.

Angels appeared to shepherds, proclaiming good news and rejoicing over the arrival of the Savior.

He told us plainly that some would reject Him, even as they embrace the celebrations around His birth. Yet He continues to love the world and to sustain those who follow Him.

From Genesis to the prophets to the manger, God’s plan has always pointed to Jesus. As you read, may you be reminded that His gift is for all people, including you, and that His revelation brings life and purpose.

May these words remind you that your security rests not in flawless behavior, but in confessing Christ and walking in His love. In Him, you can know, not guess, that you belong to God.

As you walk through Advent, may you slow down, notice His nearness, and remember that the Savior who once cried with us now dwells within us.

Even when waiting feels uncomfortable, Scripture shows it can become sacred space for growth. Paul’s example teaches us that God works powerfully in seasons where time seems to stand still.