Good morning on this Saturday morning, the last day of March. I just finished reading the gospel of John and was deeply moved as I read again the description of the arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. How great was His sacrifice for us and oh, the price He paid for you and me. Tommorow is Palm Sunday followed by the week remembering the final days and events of His life culminating with the celebration of His glorious resurrection, next Sunday on Easter. This final week of Jesus life on earth is called the Passion Week. May I suggest that you read the gospels this week and focus on the incidents in Jesus life as He made His way to the cross and tomb to fulfill His God-given destiny. Begin reading with John chapter 12 (description of His triumphal entry on Palm Sunday) through John chapter 20 (His resurrection). Here is a list of the events which took place during Passion Week and the references in the other gospels to it. Passion Week is also described in Matthew chapters 21-27, Mark chapters 11-15, and Luke chapters 19-23. Passion Week includes: the triumphal entry on Palm Sunday, Jesus cleansing the temple for the second time, Jesus giving His Olivet Discourse on the end times, Jesus' Last Supper with His disciples, Jesus' arrest and trials before the chief priests, Pilate, and Herod, Jesus' scourging at the hands of the Roman soldiers, Jesus' crucifixion, Jesus' death and burial, and Jesus' glorious resurrection. This final week is referred to as the "Passion Week" because in that time, Jesus Christ truly revealed His passion for us in what He lovingly and willingly went through on our behalf. Our attitude during Passion Week should be one of passionate worship of Jesus Christ and proclamation of His Gospel. Each day this week as you meditate upon the final events of His life and ministry, celebrate them with praise and worship as they apply to your live and faith.
I continue to make slow but sure progress in my recovery. I thank you for continuing to intercede for me before His throne of grace. Your prayers on my behalf are precious.
Tomorrow the Children of the World choir will be performing in all the AM services. You won't want to miss their inspiring, God-filled presentation. Lord willing, I'll see you there.
Mel Brown