Righteous Leadership in a Broken World

"My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side."  - Abraham Lincoln, 16th president of the United States (1809-1865)

Scripture: Psalm 72:1-4 (NIV)

Opening Question: What is one quality you look for in a good leader, and why?

In a world often disillusioned by corrupt or selfish leadership, Psalm 72:1-4 offers a timeless blueprint for a "righteous reign," inviting us to pray for leaders who prioritize justice over power.

This passage clearly and sensibly outlines the essential traits of a noble ruler, acting as a guide for leadership rooted in integrity and justice, particularly for the protection of the marginalized..

The opening verse (v.1) mentions divine justice and righteousness. The King must not rely on his own wisdom but must receive justice and righteousness from God. A good king is "given" divine righteousness to govern properly.

Verses 2, 4 focus on the protection of the vulnerable. A hallmark of a good king is his dedication to the poor, needy, and afflicted, ensuring they are treated fairly rather than exploited. He is defined by how he treats those with the least power.

The King’s righteous rule brings about peace and prosperity (often depicted as prosperity in the land, or "mountains bearing prosperity") as stated in Psalm 72:3. When a leader rules rightly, it brings shalom—a holistic peace and prosperity that affects the entire land, including the economy and the environment.

A good king takes active measures against the oppressor, reversing injustices rather than simply maintaining the status quo. Acting as an advocate for those who have no helper, specifically focusing on the "children of the needy," and uses his power to break the cycle of violence and oppression. (Psalm 72:4).

The main point is that while we often face flawed or unfair leadership, Psalm 72:1-4 reminds us that real authority is meant for defending the weak rather than serving one's own interests. 

Check for Understanding:

• The Psalmist prays for the king to have God's justice and righteousness (Psalm 72:1). Why is it important that leaders rule with God’s righteousness rather than their own?
• Verse 2 specifically mentions defending the poor and needy. According to this psalm, what is the primary role of a righteous leader?
• In Psalm 72:3, the text says "may the mountains bring prosperity to the people... by righteousness." How do justice and righteousness contribute to a peaceful, flourishing society?
• The king is asked to "crush the oppressor" in Psalm 72:4. What does this tell us about God's stance on injustice and bullying?

Life Application: Are your prayers for leaders focused more on your own political preferences or on them receiving God’s wisdom to protect the vulnerable?

Closing Words: Though written for earthly kings, Psalm 72 is perfected in Jesus, the ultimate King who treasures and rescues the needy. We now trust in His justice and let His righteousness guide our lives.

Prayer: "Lord, guide us with Psalm 72 wisdom to judge fairly, defend the weak, and break oppression. Bring your justice and righteousness through us. Amen."

Yours in Christ,

Emily

The Unrecognized Companion: Jesus in Our Everyday Walk

"You cannot be Christ’s servant if you are not willing to follow him, cross and all. What do you crave? A crown? Then it must be a crown of thorns if you are to be like him. Do you want to be lifted up? So you shall, but it will be upon a cross."  - Charles H. Spurgeon, 19th century English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

Heart & Truth: Luke 24:13-35 NIV

Let’s Pray: Lord Jesus, walk with us today. Open our eyes to your presence in our daily routines and our hearts to you in fellowship. May we know you are risen and beside us. Amen.

Opening Thought: Can you recall a moment where you didn't see God's hand at the time, but realized it later?

What if the stranger you met today—or the friend you share a meal with—was actually Jesus in disguise? Today, we explore the Emmaus Road story (Luke 24) to learn that Jesus rarely shows up how we expect, but he is always present in the ordinary moments of life.

On the day of the resurrection, two disciples headed from Jerusalem toward the village of Emmaus, about seven miles away. They were walking away from the heart of the city, likely feeling dejected and heavy-hearted (Luke 24:13-24).

Despite knowing all the details of Jesus' death, the disciples couldn't believe he was actually alive. Their hearts were broken, focused only on the crushing loss of their hopes for him to be the savior they expected (Luke 24:21).

Just as they did, we often move through the monotony of work, routine, disappointment, and grief, losing sight of Jesus in our lives because our problems consume us.

Pause & Reflect: When have you felt like you were walking away from hope, struggling to see God in your daily life?

In Luke 24:15–27, Jesus begins walking alongside the two disciples, yet a supernatural barrier prevents them from realizing who he is (Luke 24:16). Instead of instantly disclosing who he is, Jesus listens to their suffering and then explains how the Old Testament scriptures point directly to him.

The main point is that Jesus is with us, even when we don't notice Him. He typically uses the simple habit of listening to His Word to give us peace and clear direction.

Pause & Reflect: How does knowing that Jesus walks with you during your doubts (rather than waiting for you to have perfect faith) change your perspective?

Luke 24:28-35 reveals that recognition finally happened. As the group nears Emmaus, Jesus subtly waits for an invitation rather than imposing his presence, appearing as if he might continue on his way. It is only after the disciples insist, "Stay with us," that he enters their home (Luke 24:29).

While sharing a meal, Jesus takes, blesses, breaks, and gives bread, mimicking the intimacy of the Last Supper. Through this profound fellowship, the disciples finally recognize him, and their eyes are opened. 

Reflecting on their journey, they remembered their hearts burning within them as Jesus spoke to them on the road (Luke 24:32). Let’s look at how we can spot Jesus in our daily lives today.

• Through Scripture: Studying the Bible reveals Jesus.
• Community in Christ: By sharing meals and our daily journeys with one another, we encounter Jesus present among us.
• Seeing Christ in Others: Through selfless service and quiet grace, we reveal the heart of God to a world in need of His presence.

Jesus isn't just watching from a distance; He actively steps into the "ordinary" parts of our lives. He is present not only in church, but in our kitchens, offices, and moments of grief. 

When we fixate on disappointment, we overlook His presence. We aren't meant to do this alone, however—sharing our lives and bread with others helps us recognize Him in the daily grind.

Closing Prayer: "Lord Jesus, thank you for walking with us in sadness and doubt. Open our eyes to see you in Scripture, bread, and fellowship. Let our hearts burn within us, knowing you are alive and with us. Amen."

May God bless you,

Dorit

The Hope of an Empty Tomb

"The great gift of Easter is hope - Christian hope which makes us have that confidence in God, in his ultimate triumph, and in his goodness and love, which nothing can shake."  - George Basil Hume OSB OM, English Catholic Archbishop (1923-1999)

Our Focus Text: Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18 (all NIV)

Opening Prayer: "Dear God, thank You that Jesus is alive and that He has won the victory. Pour out Your peace into our hearts, and show us how to live as people of resurrection joy, not just today, but every day. Amen."

Setting The Tone: If you knew for certain that a hopeless situation in your life could be completely reversed, how would you act differently today?

Grasping Resurrection hope requires looking back at the despair of Good Friday, when the disciples were overwhelmed by heartbreak and fear. Even Mary Magdalene anticipated only a dead body, resigned to the absolute finality of death.

The same applies to the human experience. We frequently find ourselves stuck in "Friday" or "Saturday" phases—those periods of loss, debt, heartbreak, or hopelessness where things feel completely stuck.

Today’s message shows that Easter isn't just a past event—it’s a present truth. Because the tomb is empty, our hope remains alive and active. 

Let's look at what the empty tomb signifies and how it overcomes despair. The fact that the tomb is empty indicates that Jesus has conquered humanity's greatest foes: sin, death, and hopelessness.

After Jesus informed his followers that he would return to life after three days (Matthew 16:21), the discovery of the empty tomb served as ultimate proof that God fulfills His promises, regardless of how impossible they may seem.

Next, we examine how the Resurrection makes all things possible. It serves as proof that with God, no circumstance is hopeless, proving that absolute dead ends do not exist.

The same Spirit that raised Jesus lives in us (Romans 8:11). That power is here now to heal hearts, break addictions, and revive dreams. The Resurrection started it all, and Jesus is still "making everything new" (Revelation 21:5; cf. Ephesians 1:19-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17).

At its heart, the Resurrection is a story about how faith pulls us out of despair. Take Mary Magdalene—she was so overwhelmed by grief that she didn't even recognize Jesus, thinking he was just the gardener (John 20:15-16). 

It wasn't until He called her name that she finally saw Him. It goes to show that while pain can make it feel like God is missing, faith is what helps us spot Him right there with us in the middle of our struggles.

Finally, in Gethsemane, Jesus modeled ultimate surrender by choosing God’s will over His own (Matthew 26:39). Letting go of our need for control creates space for God’s victory, allowing us to trust Him during delays. Because the Resurrection secures God's promises, we can wait with unshakable hope (Acts 28:20).

Discussion Questions:

• The women came to the tomb expecting death, but found an empty grave and a living promise (Luke 24:5-6). What "sealed tomb" situations in your life need the intervention of resurrection power?
• The disciples were hiding in fear, yet the resurrection changed them into bold witnesses. How can focusing on a empty tomb transform our anxieties and hopelessness into a "living hope" (1 Peter 1:3).
• Because Jesus conquered the final enemy (death), what other "impossible" barriers in your life (relationships, addictions, guilt, failure) can you now trust Him to overcome?
• If the Resurrection is not just a historical fact event but a present reality, how should that change the way

 

Closing Thought: Because Jesus rose, empty tombs turn dead ends into new beginnings. The power that conquered the grave now lives in us, overcoming our deepest brokenness.

Prayer:  "Lord, thank You for the empty tomb. Because you live, I can face tomorrow with hope. Fill me with Your resurrection power today and help me trust that nothing is too hard for You. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Lamai

Easter Sunday | The Promise Kept: Resurrection and Redemption

"And He departed from our sight that we might return to our heart, and there find Him. For He departed, and behold, He is here"   - Augustine of Hippo, Christian theologian and philosopher from Roman Africa (354-430 A.D.)

Scripture Focus: Gospel Resurrection Accounts: Matthew 28:1–10; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–18, Living Hope: The Significance of the Risen Lord: 1 Corinthians 15:3–8, 20–22; Romans 6:4–11; 1 Peter 1:3; Romans 10:9; Philippians 3:10–11, Prophetic Foreshadowing of Jesus: Psalm 16:10 (cf. Acts 2:27-31); Isaiah 53:10–11; Jonah 1:17 (cf. Matthew 12:40); Job 19:25 NIV throughout.

Opening Prompt: Easter is a season of new beginnings. Where in your life—or in the world around you—do you see signs of "resurrection" or new life emerging from a seemingly hopeless situation?

The resurrection is the core of our faith—essential and true. We will look at the proof that Jesus kept His promise to rise on the third day, fulfilling the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:4).

To start, let's look at the prophecy of the promised resurrection. Jesus' death on the cross was not an accidental turn of events; rather, it was the intentional fulfillment of a plan He had previously disclosed to His disciples (Mark 8:31; cf. Matthew 20:17-19). 

Stop and Think: Why was it important for Jesus to predict His own death and resurrection?

It is natural to look for evidence regarding extraordinary claims, and the Bible addresses this by documenting the resurrection of Jesus through eyewitnesses and an empty tomb. 

Rather than presenting the resurrection as a metaphor, scripture portrays it as a historical fact, as seen in Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, and John 20:2-24.

Stop and Think: Is the discovery of the empty tomb by women—whose testimony was legally undervalued at the time—a sign of authentic, embarrassing history rather than a later legend?

Why is the Resurrection so important? Simply put, it is the foundation of the faith. If it didn't happen, Christianity has no substance, and the entire belief system collapses. Consequently,

• There is victory over death. Jesus' resurrection "stripped even death of its victory" (1 Corinthians 15:55).
• We are counted as righteous because of the one "who was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification" (Romans 4:25).
• Jesus is "the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20-22), meaning His resurrection is the promise that believers will also be raised to new life.

Stop and Think: How does the resurrection validate that Jesus is the Son of God?

Finally, the resurrection affects our lives now, not just in the future. Let’s look at how to apply this to our daily lives.

• Through our union with Christ, we are urged to embrace a "new life" (Romans 6:4), viewing ourselves as "dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11). 
• Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has granted us a fresh start and a hope that is truly alive (1 Peter 1:3).
• Because Christ is risen, our service to the Lord is never futile; therefore, we are urged to remain firm, unwavering, and fully committed to His work (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Stop and Think: How can I experience the power of the resurrection to overcome specific sins or bad habits?

Points to Ponder:

• Based on 1 Corinthians 15:17, what makes the bodily resurrection of Christ the central, necessary foundation of Christianity, as opposed to just accepting Jesus as a wise teacher?
• Mary Magdalene initially did not recognize Jesus, thinking he was just the gardener (John 20:14-15). When have you experienced the risen Christ in an unexpected or “ordinary” place in your own life?
• How can we reconcile Thomas’s need for physical proof with Jesus’s blessing on those who believe without seeing (John 20:29) when we experience seasons of doubt or divine silence?
• According to Romans 6:4, what does transforming your old habits into a resurrected life look like in your daily walk?
• If the resurrection takes away the finality of death, how does that promise reshape your understanding of mortality and your experience of grief?

Ultimately, consider this: Do you truly believe the same power that resurrected Jesus resides within you? Because of the resurrection, your old life is gone, empowering you to live differently today. Allow this truth to reshape how you face fear, brokenness, and daily struggles. 

Prayer: "Lord Jesus, thank You for rising again. In areas where we feel dry or hopeless, we ask for Your life-giving power. Fill us with hope and help us live in the light of Your resurrection. Amen."

With love and prayers,

Deshane

Good Friday (2026) | It is Finished: The Finality of the Cross

"The cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise god-fearing and happy life, but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ."  -  Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German Lutheran pastor, neo-orthodox theologian and anti-Nazi dissident (1906-1945)

Key Bible Verses: Isaiah 53:5; John 3:16; John 19:30; 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 5:8 (all NIV)

Introduction:  Good Friday represents the completion of a plan centuries in the making. As a cornerstone of the Christian faith, Good Friday commemorates Jesus’ voluntary sacrifice on the cross. It represents the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, the atonement for human sins, and the victory over death.

Though marked by sacrifice, Good Friday is a victory of redemption where Jesus willingly paid the penalty for sin to offer humanity forgiveness, peace, and eternal life. It is considered "good" or "holy" because it represents the ultimate sacrifice that paved the way for the Resurrection on Easter. 

Good Friday was not a moment of defeat, but the intentional completion of God’s redemptive plan. We will examine this by first looking at the prophecy in Isaiah 53:5, followed by its fulfillment in 1 Peter 2:24. 

Both verses highlight Jesus as our substitute. By enduring the intense physical and spiritual agony of our sins, He provided us with healing, reconciled us with God, and empowered us to live righteous lives.

Stop and Think: What is the theological significance of Jesus being "pierced" (crucified) for our sins compared to him simply dying as a martyr?

We must now examine the motivation behind Jesus’s voluntary sacrifice, specifically his decision to embrace love rather than avoid pain. A close look at John 10:17-18 and John 19:30 helps explain this decision.

Stop and Think: What is the significance of the phrase "it is finished" regarding a believer's justified standing before God? (cf. Colossians 2:14 - cancelling our debt).

In fulfilling his purpose, Jesus functioned as both the ransom price and the agent of reconciliation, substituting himself on behalf of sinners to restore them to God (Mark 10:45; 2 Corinthians 5:21). 

Stop and Think: In what ways does viewing Christ's sacrifice as a ransom redefine our understanding of freedom?

Finally, even in the darkness of the crucifixion, we find profound hope. Good Friday holds its significance only because we know the resurrection is coming. It is a day to meditate on the immense cost of divine grace (Romans 5:8).

Stop and Think: How can we practically live out a life of gratitude, repentance, and reconciliation in response to Christ’s sacrifice?

Check Your Understanding:

• Why is a day of crucifixion and death referred to as "Good Friday"?
• What does it mean that Jesus acted as our substitute on the cross?
• How does Isaiah 53:5-6 describe the purpose of Jesus' suffering?
• What is the significance of Jesus' silence during his trial according to prophecy?
• In what ways does the scene at the cross—highlighting both the cruelty of the soldiers and the fear of the disciples—reveal the need for salvation?

Looking Closer:

• According to Romans 5:6-10, what was the spiritual state of humanity before Jesus died for them?
• How did Jesus restore harmony between heaven and earth, as outlined in Colossians 1:19-20?

Final Thoughts: As the culmination of Jesus' sacrifice, Good Friday highlights the triumph of redemption, particularly through the phrase "It is finished." This day calls for reflection and devotion, honoring how His suffering brings us eternal hope.

Closing Prayer: "Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross and for bearing my sins so I could have life. Help me to hold Your message close and live every day confident in Your love and forgiveness. Amen."

May your heart be light and your soul be blessed,

Piper

Passion Week 2026 | The Last Supper: A Table of Grace

"He who comes to the Lord's table with faith in Christ, may confidently expect to have his faith increased by receiving the bread and wine. But he who comes without faith has no right to expect a blessing. Empty he comes to the ordinance and empty he will go away."  - J.C. Ryle, English Anglican bishop and preacher (1816-1900)

Focus Scripture: Matthew 26:26-28, Mark 14:22-24, Luke 22:19-20, and 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 (NIV)

Initial Reflection: In what areas of modern life—culture, news, or personal struggles—do you feel the most "darkness" or confusion right now?

Celebrated on Maundy Thursday—the Thursday before Easter—the Last Supper represents a shift from following external religious laws to experiencing internal grace. It marks the beginning of a new, personal covenant between God and the community of believers who follow and honor Jesus.

Historically, the Last Supper is understood as the New Passover, based on Luke 22:7-15. Perhaps we should examine this point a bit further. 

Gathered in a private upper room, Jesus and his disciples met to observe the Jewish Passover. This meal was deeply symbolic, as it commemorated God's rescue of the Israelites from their enslavement in Egypt (Exodus 12).

The meaning of the meal changed, however, when Jesus used this traditional setting to reveal himself as the true "Passover Lamb," whose sacrifice would free humanity from the bondage of sin.

During this supper, Jesus turned conventional elements into a perpetual reminder of his death (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-23; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 ). Here is a breakdown of that significance.

The Elements:

• Unleavened Bread (Christ's Body): Represents Jesus' physical suffering and death for our healing. It signifies our union and participation in him as one body.
• Wine/Cup: This cup represents Jesus' blood, poured out for the remission of sins. It is the seal of the New Covenant, replacing animal sacrifices with the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Himself. Through this blood, we gain direct access to God and receive forgiveness based on grace, not works.

Next, let's look at what the Lord’s Supper means (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-23; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 ).

• It is a Remembrance - anamnesis (ἀνάμνησις): This is not a passive remembrance, but an active, living commemoration and proclamation of his death until he returns.
• Spiritual Unity: An act of binding fellowship with Christ and the community of believers.
• Reflective Preparation: This calls for internal reflection, confession of sins, and reconciliation with others prior to participation. It calls us to examine our hearts, confess sins, and reconcile with others before participating.

Finally, the Last Supper highlights the importance of humble service through Jesus’ act of washing his disciples' feet—a job usually reserved for the lowest servants (John 13:1-7). 

By choosing this task, Jesus demonstrated that true greatness in his kingdom is found in humility rather than power. Ultimately, this serves as a call for us to set aside pride and love others through selfless action.

Critical Thinking Questions:

• In what ways does transforming the Passover meal into the Last Supper reframe the narrative of liberation from Egyptian slavery to salvation through Christ?
• What did Jesus want his disciples to understand about his death when he initiated the communion meal?
• What happens to our approach to the Lord's Supper when we interpret it as a victory celebration instead of a somber farewell?
• What does it mean to you personally that Jesus voluntarily gave his body for your salvation?
• How can the hope of the future banquet (Luke 22:18) help you trust God with your present anxieties?

Despite knowing they would abandon him, Jesus welcomed his flawed followers to his final meal. Because his table has room for us, let’s make sure we extend that same unconditional love and radical hospitality to others this week.

Closing Prayer: "Lord God, thank You for the truth shared today. As we remember the body and blood of Christ, strengthen our faith, unite us in love, and guide us to live out Your New Covenant in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Passion Week 2026 | Palm Sunday: Tragedy or Triumph?

"When Christ entered into Jerusalem the people spread garments in the way: when He enters into our hearts, we pull off our own righteousness, and not only lay it under Christ's feet but even trample upon it ourselves."  - Augustus Montague Toplady, English Anglican cleric and hymn writer (1740-1778)

Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:1-11 (NIV); Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19

Setting the Stage: The crowds praised Jesus on Sunday and shouted "crucify him" days later. Why is it easy to shout "Hosanna" in good times, but turn away when things get difficult?

Palm Sunday marks more than just the start of Passion Week (Holy Week); it signifies the intentional conclusion of Jesus’ earthly mission. Entering Jerusalem, Jesus was fully aware of the impending betrayal, trial, and crucifixion. This journey was not accidental, but a deliberate, purposeful act to save humanity. 

The paragraph above highlights several key factors. To start, Jesus wasn't walking into a trap, but rather embracing his destiny. Fully aware of the betrayal, trials, and death awaiting him, he consciously chose to move forward. - Matthew 21:5 (NIV)

By choosing to ride a donkey rather than a warhorse, he deliberately fulfilled the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, signaling a mission of humility and spiritual salvation rather than political rebellion.

Amidst the cheering crowds, Jesus understood the fleeting nature of their praise, knowing the Sunday hosannas would turn into cries for crucifixion by Friday, highlighting his profound sacrifice. - Matthew 21:9; Luke 19:41-42 (NIV)

Ultimately, the event is not seen as a tragedy, but rather an intentional, loving act aimed at fulfilling his purpose to save humanity.

Reflecting on the Palm Sunday readings, here are some key takeaways:

• The Peaceful Reign of Jesus: Defying popular expectations for a military ruler, Jesus entered not to conquer nations, but to defeat sin and death through humble sacrifice. (Matthew 21:5; Zechariah 9:9)
• Misinterpreting Jesus' Purpose: While the crowd demanded political freedom, they overlooked their deeper need for spiritual reconciliation with God. (Luke 19:41-42)
• The Shift from Praise to Persecution: Popularity is fickle; the crowds that hailed Jesus on Sunday abandoned him by Friday, challenging us to stand with Him when it is unpopular. (John 12:12-23; cf. Matthew 27:22-23)
• True Submission: More Than Just Waving Branches: Palm Sunday isn't just about celebrating Jesus; it’s a call to submit our personal plans and let Him govern our lives. (Revelation 3:20)
• The Sacrificial King: Jesus purposefully rode into Jerusalem to die, completing his mission as the final Passover sacrifice. (1 Corinthians 5:7)
• Acknowledging God: Worship Beyond Expectations: We are challenged to worship Him for His divine nature as Lord and Savior, not merely for His benefits, especially in difficult times. (Psalm 118:26)

Stop and Think: 

• What does the Triumphal Entry teach us about the difference between a king who rules by force and a king who rules through service? - Matthew 21:1-11; Zechariah 9:9 (NIV)
• The crowd wanted an earthly king, but received a suffering servant. In what ways do I demand God fix my immediate circumstances, and how can I align my expectations with his will when my prayers aren't answered the way I want? - Matthew 21:8-10 (NIV)
• What does it look like to practically "lay down our cloaks" (our pride, plans, and security) and submit to Christ in our daily lives in 2026? - John 12:12-19 (NIV)
• How does Jesus' grief over Jerusalem illustrate the conflict between the triumphant king the people wanted and the sacrificial Savior they required? - Luke 19:41-44 (NIV)
• What new insights about Jesus have shaped your understanding since the beginning of this lesson?

Wrapping Up: Instead of the political victor the crowds demanded, Jesus arrived to offer spiritual peace. This challenges us to abandon our desire for a Savior who fits our comfort zone, and instead worship Him for who He truly is: the Savior who brings salvation through love and sacrifice.

Closing Prayer: "Almighty King, we praise you for entering Jerusalem to bring us peace. We recognize you as our Savior who sacrificed all out of love. Lead us this Holy Week to a resurrection-ready heart. Amen."

In God's name,

Amy