Editors Note:This post and resource was originally published on Apr 3, 2020, and has been revised and updated for continual application. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. If you are an unbeliever, turn from sin and trust in Christ. At Easter, the Son of God took on the worlds sin and defeated the devil, death, and the grave. April 10, 2022 / Articles / By Bryan Wolfmueller / Leave a Comment. We may not have the natural ability to multiply bread and fish on . Neither disease nor natural disasters have the last word in this world; because of the resurrection, Jesus does. The first time He came to a remote, obscure town just outside Jerusalem, where He went largely unnoticed, save for a few shepherds and some farm animals. There are many things we could say about him, but first and foremost He is the holy King. Taking turns, players will stand or squat on the side of the table opposite the markers. At this point, they can choose to eat the candy now or save it to use in the next game. Holy Week and Easter Shalom: the way to reconciliation Written by Ivy Lopedito, Christian Brooks and Donna Frischknecht Jackson Amen. The barrier separating man from God was ripped away by God so that hell-deserving sinners could be welcomed safely into the presence of the infinitely holy God of the universe. Before the game, ask participants if they want to give up one piece of candy for the chance at winning two pieces in this game. (Matthew 26:17-25), Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." This post and resource was originally published on Apr 3, 2020, and has been revised and updated for continual application. We praise you, we bless you, Lord! Today's Reflection: It helps us in our small church in the islands. So Jesus, in righteous anger, drove them all out, overturning their tables and their seats (Matthew 21:12). Computer or tablet (one that can be connected to a projector or big screen TV if you have a large group), Scratch paper or personal white boards and pens/markers for quiz, What is Fat Tuesday? Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Learn more. Alexis has a Master's degree from Denver Seminary and a Bachelor's degree from Colorado Christian University. Gods presence was real at the cross, but it was His presence in judgment and wrath toward sin. Second, the cross ought to compel us to proclaim the hope of the gospel. Help us to know that none of us can boast before you. Abbie Taylor, Serve April 9 at 9:00 am and 11:00 am in the Sanctuary. Would Jesus raise up an army? Before the game, offer students the chance to give up one piece of candy for the chance to get two pieces if they win the game. That's so cool! Excerpts from Exalting Jesus in Matthew from the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series. So those who were sent went away and found it just as he had told them. Yes, I too have seen it. This is the Lords declaration. Based on the portrait of Christ we see throughout Matthews Gospel, we should long for the coming of Christ. Younger Children This hideout for criminals against God needed to be restored to a house of prayer for God. Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question, saying, "What do you think about the Christ? In Exodus 24:8 Moses sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice on the people, saying, This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you concerning all these words. This was a picture not only of Gods forgiveness, but also of His binding of the people to Himself in relationship. (Sundays). In preparation for Passover, our Jewish friends must do a thorough cleaning of their houses and kitchens and get rid of all their old food. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Encourage your students to make a thoughtful choice that will provide them a meaningful Lenten experience. Each devotional connects an element of what Jesus said or did to the current crisis and includes a few questions for you to reflect on or discuss with friends or family. Looking for youth ministry curriculum? Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb. Todd Outcalt, Creating a Life of Meaningful Prayer He answered, "He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me. It historically covers the major events of Jesus last days on earth before His crucifixion and resurrection. (Give up something small to achieve a greater good). The fact that Jesus has authority over life and death, as well as over sin and Satan, leads to one unavoidable conclusion: He has authority over you and me. Luke 19-24 . This is a week of remembrance, worship, and dedication to what Christ has done. Judas, who would betray him, answered, "Is it I, Rabbi?" We walk a different path from the world around us. The week, as it turned out, was one of the mildest Hoosier winters on record, and thousands of people turned out on the streets to enjoy the various attractions and the ambiance of the Super Bowl experience in temperatures that were almost spring-like. Faithful to original manuscripts. All glory be to him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Holy means "set apart.". Jesus died for our sins, in our place (1 Peter 2:24). To be a friend of Jesus is to be a revolutionary. The Christian Standard Bible is a trustworthy translation that is proven to be the optimal blend of accuracy and readability. All men die because they sin, for death is the payment for sin (Genesis 2:17; Romans 6:23). We can never grow close enough to God and these Passion Week devotions have been created to enhance and help you grow in your spiritual journey with Jesus in days leading up to Easter. On Holy Saturday Christians today can take this a step further in resting or abiding in what the Lord is doing today. Pleading for Mercy and Forgiveness of Sin. It is the second day that Jesus was in Jerusalem, and the Bible records Christ teaching and debating the religious leaders over Holy Monday and the next day (Holy Tuesday). The 25 Advent devotions, one for every day December 1-25, can accompany the lighting of the candles in a traditional Advent wreath. Then the Lord you seek will suddenly come to His temple, the Messenger of the covenant you desiresee, He is coming, says the Lord of Hosts. Here's an insider's guide to some of our best one-off resources for Lent, Holy Week, and Easter, including: liturgies, Stations of the Cross, worship films, visual art, banner art, and more! This article is part of our larger Holy Week and Easter resource library centered around the events leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many times Christians say, Ive decided to make Jesus the Lord of my life. I hate to break it to you, but you didnt have a choice in the matter. Amen. Campus Crusade for Christ offers 10 free Bible lessons dealing with the . He is the author of twenty-five books in six languages, including the youth ministry titles: $5 Youth Ministry (Group); Last-Minute Meetings (Abingdon); Ready to Go Youth Meetings (Abingdon); and The Youth Ministry Encyclopedia (Kindle). This text leaves no doubt that the day of Christs return will be evident to all. As He came under the sentence of sin, Jesus was cut off from the Fathers favorable presence. Daily devotions are modified from Exalting Jesus in Matthew from the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series, by David Platt. (It might look and sound a lot like gambling, but spin it so that it is about giving up something small to achieve a greater good). Keep up the great work you're doing! Give each student a note card and writing utensil. When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve. "Please look with eyes to see," the Apostle invited. The best way to introduce younger children to Lenten practices is for them to see adults and older kids in the family practicing them; use their natural curiosity and desire to be "grown up" as a springboard for talking about what you're doing and why. This message is indeed difficult to take. Stand five to seven highlighter markers up on a table, placing them in a line about two inches apart from each other. Shortly before His own death, Jesus told His disciples the following: No one takes it [My life] from Me, but I lay it down on My own. Like Jesus, our example and Friend. Poem - This Day You Will Be With Me. Who does He think He is? After all, He explicitly told Peter in John 21:18-19 that Peter would be put to death. . Following Christ is difficult because we still areasking these same questions in our time but in a different context. For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! In Galatians 2:20 Paul speaks of the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me. Believers should rejoice in Jesus love demonstrated in both His cross and His resurrection. One features a New Testament chapter each day. The following devotions, written by United Methodists, are offered to assist you as you remember Jesus' journey through Holy Week: from his entrance into Jerusalem to the tomb. When the Son returns, we will see that the Fathers timing makes perfect sense, so we watch with confidence in the sovereign control of God. Poem - The Charcoal Fire. Holy Week History: What is Palm Sunday? April 8, 2020 | Wednesday of Passion Week, April 9, 2020 | Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday), Surprise Bonus April 13, 2020 | Easter Monday. Devotions from the KJV Bible | Free Daily Devotionals Two free daily devotionals that teach biblical principles and doctrines. Jesus is alluding to Exodus 24, when the law-covenant that God had given His people at Mount Sinai was confirmed. Just as surely as He came the first time in humility to provide salvation, so He will come the second time in glory to execute judgment. He walked into a scene where people were bustling in the outer court of the temple, known also as the court of the Gentiles, a place for the nations to meet with God in worship, praise, and prayer. And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, "Is it I, Lord?" We asked laity from each participating church to answer the question . Keep before our eyes the image of your Son, Who, being God, became a Servant for our sake. "You'll find spiritual trail markers in many places friends and families . Jesus knew that God the Father had given Him the authority to do everything He had done up to this point in His life and ministry (John 5:19- 29). lent resources, youth ministry, lent for youth, youth devotionals, youth group, youth discussion guide, lent discussion guide, lent sunday school . Hannah Aloi, 15 Awesome Summer Games Daily Devotions April 5 - The Triumphant Entry April 6 - Jesus Washed the Disciples' Feet Go, make it as secure as you can." And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover. As a volunteer in my small rural church, I have no budget for curriculum. FROM BILLYGRAHAM.ORG - " Prepare for Easterfor Holy Week a devotional each day from Thursday through Sunday. Let everyone know that the Son of God came to save sinners, and that He has given His life on the cross for those who deserve His wrath. Let us know how you used them and how your youth engaged during Holy Week in the comments below! This section of Matthews Gospel has been referred to as Jesus final break with Judaism, for He takes the religious leaders of Jerusalem head-on, making claims that they considered blasphemousclaims that would lead them to crucify Him. Christians set apart an entire week - Holy Week - to recall the events surrounding the suffering, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus. When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. The rules of the game will vary depending on which site you use, but should be pretty self-explanatory. Then, at the end of the book of Exodus, Gods glory was revealed in a cloud that covered the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38). Holy Week is an important time in the Church. by Fred Alberti. Devotional Tools for Holy Week. ), Slaves, in reverent fear of God, submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. We receive divine forgiveness, mercy, and peace because Jesus willingly took our divine punishment, the result of Gods righteousness against sin. Paul speaks to this reality in Romans 10:9-13, what we might refer to as the foundational confession of Christianity: If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples." Your role as a youth ministry leader is vitally important because you have the privilege of pointing students to Jesus. Christ's death on our behalf is the reason God can forgive us and still be just. In Jesus name, Amen. Much could be said about the themes in this psalm and their relation to the crucifixion, but for now we should note that this was a cry of physical agony as Jesus physically hung on the cross. And he rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away. Third, Christs authority over us means that He will judge us eternally. So there are seven daily devotions that focus on the theme and bring you insight, understanding and revelation from the Bible. Thank you that you make all things new. One features a New Testament chapter each day. We too have a very small church with all of us volunteering, We are grateful for your free resources as they bless our youth. Proclaim hope It is the center of our faith . This Easter Bible study will help you understand Holy Week and how Jesus' death and resurrection applies to your daily life. Exodus 20:8 is the original verse explaining to Gods people how to observe this law, Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Christian Schools Reflections Two minutes. And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. The intention of these Passion week devotions is to help you create space in your heart and mind for God to meet you and take you deeper in your walk with Him. We've compiled five 10 minute sermons for you to use with your youth ministry! The Passover meal must be prepared with all new and fresh ingredients. The Holy week in lockdown. Remind them that whatever they choose should be meaningful to them and beneficial to others. Do not seek to add to His infinitely gracious and worthy sacrifice, but instead repent and embrace this free gift of salvation. The religious leaders were questioning Jesus authorization to do what He did. How can weakness be a strength? Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Jeremiahs wider context is worth quoting here: Do you steal, murder, commit adultery, swear falsely, burn incense to Baal, and follow other gods that you have not known? This misplaced fear is what led them to question Jesus, and it leads many people to question Jesus authority today. Holy Week. Man of Sorrows, People of Joy paints a revealing picture of Jesus as He winds His way to the cross. He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, 'The Teacher says, My time is at hand. Therefore, the religious leaders couldnt reject John, or the people would turn against them. Like a lamb he was led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that is silent in the presence of her shearers, so he did not open his mouth. That is the effect of the cross for all who trust in Jesus. Before Jesus began his earthly ministry, he spent 40 days in the wilderness (Luke 4: 1-13; read this with the youth if you like). Luke 2:42. Christianity stands or falls on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He will be like a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. For your lovingkindness endures forever. First, it means He reigns over us supremely. "Hosanna! Several Clio Area Churches from Mission Zone 7 in the East Winds District of the Michigan Annual Conference joined together to produce a video devotional for Holy Week 2021 for our congregations. Each week's theme is listed as a series. Devotional Reading : It seems clear, however, that Jesus did not mean that He would return before His disciples died. The Angelic Perspective on Easter. 7 Things I Would Do Differently if I Were Raising My Children California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Translate into 100+ languages! Jesus coming into the world the cleansing of our hearts by the Holy Spirit our eternal hope. It is the second day that Jesus was in Jerusalem, and the Bible records Christ teaching and. A quarter of Luke's Gospel, one-third of Matthew and Mark and almost half of John are devoted to . Scripture says that one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). My family was one of those who turned out on the streets, too. Shelli Latham, the president of Omaha Presbyterian Seminary Foundation for d365.org, an online youth-centered devotional."May God grant you the perfect light that you may see clearly the truths of your life and the path the Spirit lays before you . Jesus refers to My blood that establishes the covenant in Matthew 26:28, and this is the only time the word covenant is used in Matthews Gospel. For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. And His death teaches us the depth and breadth that there should be in our forgiveness of one another. The people came with questions. 10 Reasons God Might Not Be Blessing Your Life, Inspiring Mother Breaks Down after Earning Golden Buzzer with Celine Dion Hit, 7 Things that Will Keep Me from Coming Back to Your Church, 6 Truths about Jesus Coming into the World, 9 Christians You Don't Want to Sit Beside on Sunday Morning, 10 Things You Should Know about the Intermediate State of Death, 'You Raise Me Up' Duet Earns A Standing Ovation From The Judges, 7 Things I Would Do Differently if I Were Raising My Children Again. (1 Peter 2:18-25), Lord God, We wait, on Friday, for the resurrection of Sunday And sometimes our lives seem a succession of Fridays And we cannot see what is Good.. But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why do you trouble the woman? Holy Week Devotions We invite you to journey through the sacred events of Holy Week that lead us to Jesus' Resurrection on Easter in this devotional series written by the South Georgia Conference Cabinet. The more we live in this world, the more we will long for Christ to come back to this world. Thank you for the awesome resources for lessons and games! On Wednesday of Holy Week, many in the Church remember that Jesus was betrayed by one of His own. Kirsten Peyton, Real Discipleship If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' Weve provided a Palm Sunday lesson for you to use with your youth online and 6 daily devotionals you can send to your students each day next week: Monday Saturday of Holy Week. In his name, Amen. Our Shepherd's crucifixion and resurrection now make joy and true life available to His followers . Celebrating Lent is not just about giving things up; it can also be about adding good things to our lives, as well as about serving others. On each table place a paper bowl for each student playing the game. For she has done a beautiful thing to me. While churches will vary in how they observe the events of . Weve provided social media graphics for you to use if youd like to engage your students with these devotionals online for an added element of connection and interaction. To force their hand, He asked them whether Johns baptism was from heaven or from man (v. 25). Invite them to hear the whisper of God. For the joy set before him (Hebrews 12:2) Jesus endured the cross on Good Friday, knowing it led to his resurrection, our salvation, and the beginning of Gods reign of righteousness and peace. Now, with Jesus death, we have a new covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27) sealed not with the blood of an animal sacrifice, but with the blood of the Son of God Himself (Hebrews 10:1-18). Indeed, He is Lord of the temple, and He has the right to do in it whatever He desires, including throwing it into disarray. Find a devotional reading with related scriptures and prayers for each day of Holy Week. In addition, this was also a cry of relational alienation. May these devotions to God guide your mind and heart in the days leading to Easter and the glorious Resurrection of Christ! O God, Son of God, you took on yourself our nature and suffered death on the cross for us. Patrick Boatwright, Thin Spaces Church Worker Wellness - Week 56 devotion: Relational wellness Naming our struggles can be powerful in recognizing the face of God in our lives. Daily Devotional for Spirit filled living. ", And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, "Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! All rights reserved. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen. Nisan 1 1 : Nisan 1 2 : Sunday 3 April 2 . Preserve us in your grace; through your mercy, O our God, you are blessed and govern all things, now and forever. Many people know that Jesus died, but they dont know why. All of these things help us get a fuller picture of those last days, and help us understand what it was really like for Christ. Second, He loves us deeply. Use this devotional to help your students strengthen their spiritual muscles and learn to become more like Jesus. Devotions for Teenagers and Youth - Daily devotions for youth, teens and discipleship tools Daily Bible Verse and Devotion - Isaiah 42:16 Posted on March 2, 2023 I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on paths they have not known. The intention of these Passion week devotions is to help you create space in your heart and mind for God to meet you and take you deeper in your walk with Him. And they said, "The Lord has need of it. Horton - Nashville Web Design & SEO, a WST Web Design Co. Passion Week, which is also known as Holy Week, starts on Palm Sunday and continues until Easter Sunday. Jesus responded to the questions of the chief priests and the elders by posing a question of His own. You can also send out the devotionals in a group text or app and ask students to respond with their completed Challenge!! Day 1: Focus on the sacrifice Jesus made Day 2: Express how Jesus' relationship-healing work on the cross makes us feel Day 3: Consider how our new life in Christ is different than our old life Day 4: Reflect on what Jesus' sacrifice says about how valuable we are to God Day 5: Reflect on the Crucifixion account and formulate praise to God Do you see now why the cross is so significant? We would love to keep you updated on the newest titles from CSB. It helps students to understand that Lent is not just about self-denial for its own sake, but that it can be a time of meaningful sacrifice, service, and self-reflection. Video reflections will be posted at 7am Monday-Thursday, and Noon on Friday and Saturday, and will be available at all times after posting. This is the good news, and it is our great privilege to proclaim it. These daily devotionals are centered around a weekly theme. . It takes two minutes to read a daily Reflection full of the Gospel of Christ crucified for you. They may not use their hands in any of this. These sermons are filled with strong main points, interactive experiences, and powerful illustrations. That day will be a day of judgment, and all who are not ready for that daythat is, those who have refused to turn from their sin and to trust in Christ as Savior and Kingwill come face to face with the Holy One whom they have rejected. What is Maundy Thursday?What Is Good Friday? Prayer Works Study and Quiet Times For Students, April 6 Jesus Washed the Disciples Feet. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Holy week is an opportunity for youth leaders to reacquaint teenagers with these deep truths. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will not be destroyed. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it up again. Church Worker Wellness - Week 55 devotion: Emotional wellness Christmas, Easter, and the Cross is for you. For this could have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor." Thank you that you reign supreme and we are more than conquerors through the gift of Christ! In verse 30 Jesus says that the tribes of the earth will mourn when they see Him coming. After the smoke cleared, all that was left were the witnessesHis friends. In verse 34, Jesus says, I assure you: This generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place. This verse has been particularly confusing, because it seems that Jesus is saying that the generation He was speaking to would see His second coming. You can use our youth ministry lessons in a variety of ways - as a Bible lesson for youth . On Wednesday of Holy Week, Jesus may have rested. As Jesus rode a donkey into the town of Jerusalem a large crowd gathered and laid palm branches and their cloaks across the road, giving Jesus royal treatment. For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. You get to join in on God's activity in their lives. Looking for youth ministry curriculum? Who gave You this authority? (v. 23). Here is what we read: See, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. Furthermore, Christs judgment means our efforts for justice in this world become meaningful. The way this works is that students (or teams) start out with a prize (candy works well) and, with each new game, have the option of giving up their prize for the opportunity to win extra candy or prizes if they win the next game. This leads to the next attribute of Jesus. 162 views, 5 likes, 2 loves, 5 comments, 1 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church: Tuesday Holy Week Devotional (Excerpt from Whats So Good about Good Friday? Included with each lesson is a leader prep section, introductory game, and discussion questions. Holy Monday is the second day of Holy Week, right after Palm Sunday. Monday: Matthew 21:12-19 (Jesus cleanses the temple), Tuesday: Matthew 21:23-46 (Jesus rebukes the Pharisees), Wednesday: Matthew 24:1-36 (Signs of things to come), Thursday: Matthew 26:20-75 (The Significance of the Last Supper), Friday: Matthew 27:1-61 (Jesus crucifixion), Saturday: Matthew 27:57-61 (Responding to the Cross), Sunday: Matthew 28:1-20 (Startling Implications of the Resurrection). He is our substitute sacrifice, and He has died the death we deserved to die. Death, where is your sting? Jesus gave up so much to restore our relationship to God (Philippians 2), is it too much to ask of us to give something up for 40 days? God sent His Son to pay the price for our sin, and the resurrection lets us know that our hope of salvation is not some made-up story, some fanciful myth. However, as we noted earlier, Jesus cry on the cross was also a cry of spiritual anguish. In each object, readers will find meaning in the biblical account of Jesus final days. Help us to trust in you like little children. A 7-Day Holy Week Devotional How Jesus Spent His Final Days Before the Cross Over one fourth of the book of Matthew is devoted to the last week before Jesus' death. For dogs have surrounded me; a gang of evildoers has closed in on me; they pierced my hands and my feet. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. It is a great week to slow down and observe the last moments of Jesus life. 33: Fostering Social Justice in Your Youth Ministry Use an online version of the once-popular game show.