Good morning on this Saturday, April 4th. Tomorrow is Palm Sunday and next Sunday is Easter. Next week leading up to Easter corresponds to the final week in Jesus' earthly life found in the final chapters of the Gospel of John chapters 12 through 21. In John 12:12-19 the Triumphal Entry is recorded where Jesus enters the city in triumph as the people throw palm branches before him - hence the name Palm Sunday. In the following chapters, Jesus observes the Last Supper, prepares his disciples for his betrayal and coming death, prays for His followers in the genuine Lord's Prayer of John 17, is arrested, tried, tortured, crucified, buried, rises from the dead, and then makes numerous post-resurrection appearances. The final week of Christ's life is often referred to as "Passion Week" because the events are focused upon His suffering. May I suggest that you join me in reading these final chapters of John's Gospel throughout next week so we can relive Christ's suffering on our behalf, take time to once again appreciate all He did for us, and express to God our appreciation and thanksgiving for such a wonderful Savior who gave so much for us. Also, let's share the good news of Jesus Christ with as many as possible by inviting them to Easter services throughout next week. He lives should resonate in our thoughts, words and life every day, especially this week. His resurrection produces for us not only eternal life but abundant living as well and this life is too good to keep to ourselves.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, Amazing Grace - Part 2. I hope I'll see you there.
Mel Brown