The Connection Church

Reading: Matthew 28:1-10, Psalm 107:1-3, Romans 10:9-15Dig DeeperEarly in the morning, the earth shook, that big, ugly stone rolled away, and Jesus defeated death, Hell, and the grave once and for all. That door didn’t just open for Jesus, but for every person who becomes a Child of God. And now, we get to proclaim our salvation to the rest of the world. The Psalmist encourages the redeemed to "say so," while Paul emphasizes the importance of confessing our faith. As you read, reflect on your own testimony of salvation. How has Christ changed your life? Consider sharing your story with someone today - it doesn't have to be dramatic, just honest. Remember, every time we speak of God's work in our lives, we participate in His ongoing salvific work in the world. Ask God for courage to be a bold yet gracious witness to His transforming love.

Reading: Matthew 27:62-66, Hebrews 6:19Dig DeeperAfter He breathed his final breath, Jesus was laid in a borrowed tomb. A giant stone was rolled in front of the tomb so that no one could get in…or come out. And besides some words spoken by the man now laying in the tomb, why would anyone expect Jesus to wake up from death’s sleep and come out. Hope seemed lost, but in 24 hours, it would be found in an open doorway. Today is a reminder that because of Christ, we can hope against all odds no matter our situation. Jesus is the King of Hope, the true anchor for our souls. Where are you needing some hope today? Take a moment and reflect on the fact that God can touch those long buried things within us and bring them back to life.

Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-9Dig Deeper:God doesn't want half-hearted followers, but those who love Him with all their heart, soul, and strength. This kind of all-encompassing love isn't just an emotion, but a daily choice to put God first. Think about the various aspects of your life - your time, talents, relationships, and resources. In what areas do you find it easiest to love God? Where do you struggle? Ask God to help you love Him more fully in every area. Consider one practical step you can take today to demonstrate your whole-hearted devotion to God.

Reading: Philippians 4:4-9Dig Deeper:Our thoughts shape our actions and ultimately our character. Paul encourages us to focus our minds on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. In a world that bombards us with negativity and impurity, this takes intentional effort. Reflect on your thought patterns. What tends to occupy your mind throughout the day? Ask God to help you recognize thoughts that don't align with His truth and to replace them with godly thinking. Consider memorizing Philippians 4:8 as a tool to filter your thoughts when needed.

Reading: Matthew 26:17-30, Ephesians 1:3-14, 1 Peter 1:18-21Dig Deeper:Now, that we’ve spent the past few days preparing our hearts and minds, we’ve made it to the Thursday before Easter, commonly known as Maundy Thursday. On this day, we remember the Last Supper where Jesus and his disciples gathered together to observe Passover, a holiday recounting how God rescued his people from slavery. But at this passover, there was a twist. Jesus took the traditional meal and added to it–foretelling of how He would rescue his people, that’s you and me, from slavery once again. Now, we celebrate Jesus as our living Redeemer. The concept of redemption speaks to our rescue from sin and its consequences through Christ's sacrifice. As you read, reflect deeply on what it means to be "bought with a price." How does the reality of your redemption impact your daily life? Consider writing a prayer of thanksgiving, specifically naming the things Christ has redeemed you from. Remember, redemption is not just about being saved from something, but being saved for something - how might God be calling you to live out your redeemed identity today?

Reading: Matthew 27:45-55, Hebrews 4:14-16, Isaiah 53:1-6Dig Deeper:Today, we can remember that Jesus' understands our suffering. As both fully God and fully man, Jesus experienced the full range of human emotions and trials. And when He was up on that cross, He bore the weight of every sin. He held it all on his shoulders. The weight was heavy, and yet, He bore it all. When you face difficulties, do you turn to Jesus, knowing He understands your pain? Reflect on a current struggle in your life and imagine bringing it to Jesus, who knows exactly how you feel. Take comfort in the fact that your High Priest is not distant or unfeeling, but intimately acquainted with your sorrows. Close your time by thanking Jesus for His willingness to suffer on your behalf, and ask for His strength to endure your present trials.

Reading: John 12:12-19Dig Deeper:Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem shows us a different kind of king than the people expected. They wanted a political savior, but Jesus came as a humble servant-king. How often do we, like the crowd, try to fit Jesus into our own expectations? Think about your own view of Jesus. Are there ways you've limited Him to fit your preferences or understanding? Consider how you can submit to His kingship in all areas of your life today, even the parts you'd prefer to control yourself. Ask God to expand your vision of who Jesus is and what He came to do.

Reading: Romans 1:18-25Dig Deeper:With so many distractions and false idols around us, it's easy to lose sight of the one true God. Today's passage reminds us of the danger of worshipping created things instead of the Creator. Think about areas in your life where you may be giving undue importance to worldly things - money, fame, appearance, or technology. How might these be taking God's rightful place in your heart? Ask God to reveal any idols in your life and to help you redirect your worship towards Him. Remember, true fulfillment doesn’t come from the gifts, but from the Giver. Today, consciously choose to praise God for who He is, not just for what He provides.