S:

Romans 8: 10 ... if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

O:

Those who have God's Spirit alive in them, will rise just like Jesus!  It's the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, so He is able to raise you from death too! 

A:

On this Holy Saturday, as Jesus was thought to remain dead, we can anticipate tomorrow's celebration, knowing that just las God's Spirit raised Jesus from death, so we too can hope in being raised from death.  Our hope of a new life forever with God, rests securely in Jesus' rising from death.  That same hopeful Spirit lives in God's people today, as always.

P:

Jesus, help me each day to look forward to Your resurrection, and rest in the truth that I too will rise like You, because Your Spirit live sin me by faith.  Amen

S:

O:

It was known before this world was created that you would be ransomed from a life bent on destruction and torment, both now and forever, by the precious blood of Jesus, Who is The Spotless Lamb, who died for your sake.

A:

"It's a good day!"  There can be many reasons for saying that, but they usually have to do with something that pleases us or goes our way.  One event that changed all our lives, that St. Peter is writing to instruct and encourage us, with the hope that we'll be pleased and thankful about: Jesus' death!  It's a strange thing that a death, being a sad event, is now turned into a good thing for us.  Jesus' love is behind it all, and THAT love makes today, truly a "Good Day!"

P:

Thanks Jesus for loving me enough to die in my place.  You've taken all my sin, shame, guilt and death, and given me life!  Thanks for making this a good day.  I love You for that. Amen

S:

O:

It was known before this world was created that you would be ransomed from a life bent on destruction and torment, both now and forever, by the precious blood of Jesus, Who is The Spotless Lamb, who died for your sake.

A:

"It's a good day!"  There can be many reasons for saying that, but they usually have to do with something that pleases us or goes our way.  One event that changed all our lives, that St. Peter is writing to instruct and encourage us, with the hope that we'll be pleased and thankful about: Jesus' death!  It's a strange thing that a death, being a sad event, is now turned into a good thing for us.  Jesus' love is behind it all, and THAT love makes today, truly a "Good Day!"

P:

Thanks Jesus for loving me enough to die in my place.  You've taken all my sin, shame, guilt and death, and given me life!  Thanks for making this a good day.  I love You for that. Amen

S:

O:

It was known before this world was created that you would be ransomed from a life bent on destruction and torment, both now and forever, by the precious blood of Jesus, Who is The Spotless Lamb, who died for your sake.

A:

"It's a good day!"  There can be many reasons for saying that, but they usually have to do with something that pleases us or goes our way.  One event that changed all our lives, that St. Peter is writing to instruct and encourage us, with the hope that we'll be pleased and thankful about: Jesus' death!  It's a strange thing that a death, being a sad event, is now turned into a good thing for us.  Jesus' love is behind it all, and THAT love makes today, truly a "Good Day!"

P:

Thanks Jesus for loving me enough to die in my place.  You've taken all my sin, shame, guilt and death, and given me life!  Thanks for making this a good day.  I love You for that. Amen

S:

Mark 14:16 And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. 22 And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” 23 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 24 And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. 25 Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

O:

During their private Pssover meal and celebration, Jesus institutes a very special change: the cup of blessing (filled with wine) is now linked to His own shed blood!  the simple bread is now linked to His own body that is broken for our deliverance!  Jesus is clearly showing that this special meal links to His death and resurrection, giving us freedom from our sins!  Now that's a great meal!

A:

What a meal!  How amazing that Jesus, being God Almighty, re-creates this new meal to be both simple bread and wine, and also His body and blood, spiritually (yet in reality!).  This meal then is at the core of our faith in Jesus as the promised Messiah: it get's personal!  Not every meal can do all that!  On this Maundy Thursday, Christians worldwide celebrate this special meal, and are cleansed and strengthened for eternal life!

P:

Thank You Jesus for this special meal, and for coming into our life and body to be with us forever! Amen

S:

Mark 12:1 And he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a pit for the winepress and built a tower, and leased it to tenants and went into another country. 2 When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4 Again he sent to them another servant, and they struck him on the head and treated him shamefully. 5 And he sent another, and him they killed. And so with many others: some they beat, and some they killed. 6 He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7 But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 And they took him and killed him and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not read this Scripture:

O:

Jesus tells a story so that all who hear, especially the leaders that are rejecting Him, and thus rejecting God Himself, will hopefully change and trust Jesus.  In the story, Jesus points out the workers that have rejected every person representing the Owner, until they finally reject the Owner's Son.  this is the story of the ages, where God sent His Prophets who were rejected and then sent His Only son, Jesus, Who is being rejected.  Jesus ends with a familiar Scripture passage about the very One rejected is the crucial One that everything else is built upon: Him, Jesus, is the fulfillment of this passage.

A:

All of us can reject Jesus: walk away from Him, not trust Him, look for other things to fill our heart/soul and shape our life like, etc.  How have you rejected Jesus like those leaders?  And if He's the foundation of all life, then how has He become the foundation in your life? 

P:

Jesus, don't let me reject You today, but cling to You, The One Who has become my foundation for all things.  Amen

S:

Mark 12:1 And he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a pit for the winepress and built a tower, and leased it to tenants and went into another country. 2 When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4 Again he sent to them another servant, and they struck him on the head and treated him shamefully. 5 And he sent another, and him they killed. And so with many others: some they beat, and some they killed. 6 He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7 But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 And they took him and killed him and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not read this Scripture:

O:

Jesus tells a story so that all who hear, especially the leaders that are rejecting Him, and thus rejecting God Himself, will hopefully change and trust Jesus.  In the story, Jesus points out the workers that have rejected every person representing the Owner, until they finally reject the Owner's Son.  this is the story of the ages, where God sent His Prophets who were rejected and then sent His Only son, Jesus, Who is being rejected.  Jesus ends with a familiar Scripture passage about the very One rejected is the crucial One that everything else is built upon: Him, Jesus, is the fulfillment of this passage.

A:

All of us can reject Jesus: walk away from Him, not trust Him, look for other things to fill our heart/soul and shape our life like, etc.  How have you rejected Jesus like those leaders?  And if He's the foundation of all life, then how has He become the foundation in your life? 

P:

Jesus, don't let me reject You today, but cling to You, The One Who has become my foundation for all things.  Amen

S:

Mark 12:1 And he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a pit for the winepress and built a tower, and leased it to tenants and went into another country. 2 When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4 Again he sent to them another servant, and they struck him on the head and treated him shamefully. 5 And he sent another, and him they killed. And so with many others: some they beat, and some they killed. 6 He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7 But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 And they took him and killed him and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not read this Scripture:

O:

Jesus tells a story so that all who hear, especially the leaders that are rejecting Him, and thus rejecting God Himself, will hopefully change and trust Jesus.  In the story, Jesus points out the workers that have rejected every person representing the Owner, until they finally reject the Owner's Son.  this is the story of the ages, where God sent His Prophets who were rejected and then sent His Only son, Jesus, Who is being rejected.  Jesus ends with a familiar Scripture passage about the very One rejected is the crucial One that everything else is built upon: Him, Jesus, is the fulfillment of this passage.

A:

All of us can reject Jesus: walk away from Him, not trust Him, look for other things to fill our heart/soul and shape our life like, etc.  How have you rejected Jesus like those leaders?  And if He's the foundation of all life, then how has He become the foundation in your life? 

P:

Jesus, don't let me reject You today, but cling to You, The One Who has become my foundation for all things.  Amen

S:

Mark 11: 27 And they came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, 28 and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” 29 Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 30 Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man? Answer me.” 31 And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 32 But shall we say, ‘From man’?”—they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was a prophet. 33 So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

O:

Jesus is questioned about His position, his standing among men and who gave Him the authority to teach, heal, etc.  Jesus sees their motives and asks them a question back, to expose what they really need to be wrestling with: their own trust and who they look to for authority.  Jesus asks them about the resurrection, because He knew it would be devisive.  When they couldn't answer, He didn't answer. 

A:

The very way this brief encounter unfolds, puts Jesus in authority.  The leaders even acknowledge His authority by wrestling with His question.  They had their own issues, and were so caught up in their own wrestlings about authority - that's what living by the letter of the Law does - that they couldn't see the freedom from all of that, right in front of them: Jesus himself.  All of life really, comes down to this quesiton of who you trust as authority: yourself, some set of laws to live by, the devil, or a person, Jesus (really, the Triune God who delivers humans from living under other authorities). 

P:

Jesus, help me ive for You alone, and trust You as the Authority of my life.  Amen

S:

Mark 11:12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it.

O:

Jesus was hungry, and seeing a tree with leaves, he thought it should have fruit.  When He saw it didn't, He cursed it to never have fruit again.  He did this in front of his followers fro them to see and take note.

A:

Jesus is more concerned and delighted (it 'feeds' Him) when something in His creation does what it's supposed to do, like bear fruit.  He is not content with sin.  The tree is a metaphor for us humans, especially those in leadership that 'feed' others.  In the other Gospels, we can read this same account - it so impacted the Disciples that they recorded it, especially on this Holy Week.  Jesus is making a statement that we can't just be all show, only the outward appearance of life and goodness, but must have life on the inside, and live out that life in all we do, and THEN others will be fed with Jesus' life coming out from us.  THAT is bearing fruit, and won't be cursed on the Last Day.

P:

Jesus, help me be alive on the inside, even as You've baptized me with Your life, let it show in all I do.  Thank You for blessing me and being in and with me always. Amen

S:

Mark 11:12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it.

O:

Jesus was hungry, and seeing a tree with leaves, he thought it should have fruit.  When He saw it didn't, He cursed it to never have fruit again.  He did this in front of his followers fro them to see and take note.

A:

Jesus is more concerned and delighted (it 'feeds' Him) when something in His creation does what it's supposed to do, like bear fruit.  He is not content with sin.  The tree is a metaphor for us humans, especially those in leadership that 'feed' others.  In the other Gospels, we can read this same account - it so impacted the Disciples that they recorded it, especially on this Holy Week.  Jesus is making a statement that we can't just be all show, only the outward appearance of life and goodness, but must have life on the inside, and live out that life in all we do, and THEN others will be fed with Jesus' life coming out from us.  THAT is bearing fruit, and won't be cursed on the Last Day.

P:

Jesus, help me be alive on the inside, even as You've baptized me with Your life, let it show in all I do.  Thank You for blessing me and being in and with me always. Amen

S:

Mark 11:12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it.

O:

Jesus was hungry, and seeing a tree with leaves, he thought it should have fruit.  When He saw it didn't, He cursed it to never have fruit again.  He did this in front of his followers fro them to see and take note.

A:

Jesus is more concerned and delighted (it 'feeds' Him) when something in His creation does what it's supposed to do, like bear fruit.  He is not content with sin.  The tree is a metaphor for us humans, especially those in leadership that 'feed' others.  In the other Gospels, we can read this same account - it so impacted the Disciples that they recorded it, especially on this Holy Week.  Jesus is making a statement that we can't just be all show, only the outward appearance of life and goodness, but must have life on the inside, and live out that life in all we do, and THEN others will be fed with Jesus' life coming out from us.  THAT is bearing fruit, and won't be cursed on the Last Day.

P:

Jesus, help me be alive on the inside, even as You've baptized me with Your life, let it show in all I do.  Thank You for blessing me and being in and with me always. Amen

S:

Mark 10:46 And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” 50 And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” 52 And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.

O:

As he had done many times, Bartimaeus called out for help.  Jesus responds when others turn away, calling him, drawing out faith from him.  With boldness, he asks Jesus again, and Jesus sees his trust in Him, and heals the man.

A:

Jesus is calling out to all of us, responding to any of our pleas for help.  The real question is: are we willing to respond to Him?  do we believe He can help?  This blind man acted on his faith, trusting Jesus couldhelp him.  Jesus put it right to him, calling him to trust - and Jesus came through.  Jesus always comes through, ultimately, for our good.  That's just Who He is.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You, call out to You, and respond when You call me to trust You more. Thank You for caring about my life. Amen

S:

Mark 10:46 And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” 50 And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” 52 And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.

O:

As he had done many times, Bartimaeus called out for help.  Jesus responds when others turn away, calling him, drawing out faith from him.  With boldness, he asks Jesus again, and Jesus sees his trust in Him, and heals the man.

A:

Jesus is calling out to all of us, responding to any of our pleas for help.  The real question is: are we willing to respond to Him?  do we believe He can help?  This blind man acted on his faith, trusting Jesus couldhelp him.  Jesus put it right to him, calling him to trust - and Jesus came through.  Jesus always comes through, ultimately, for our good.  That's just Who He is.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You, call out to You, and respond when You call me to trust You more. Thank You for caring about my life. Amen

S:

Mark 10:46 And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” 50 And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” 52 And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.

O:

As he had done many times, Bartimaeus called out for help.  Jesus responds when others turn away, calling him, drawing out faith from him.  With boldness, he asks Jesus again, and Jesus sees his trust in Him, and heals the man.

A:

Jesus is calling out to all of us, responding to any of our pleas for help.  The real question is: are we willing to respond to Him?  do we believe He can help?  This blind man acted on his faith, trusting Jesus couldhelp him.  Jesus put it right to him, calling him to trust - and Jesus came through.  Jesus always comes through, ultimately, for our good.  That's just Who He is.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You, call out to You, and respond when You call me to trust You more. Thank You for caring about my life. Amen

S:

Mark 10: 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. 42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

O:

Thinking like humans do, thinking of themselves, James and John ask about their future, about being set up for the best positions in Jesus' kingdom.  Jesus calls them on it, and points them to serving and being the lowest, as the one with the 'best' position in God's kingdom.

A:

The best position or place in God's view of reality, is the lowest, the position of the servant, who is willing to do anything to love and help others.  Jesus is the ultimate expression of that, becoming the lowest so he could save all humanity: "...even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many."

P:

Jesus, forgive me when I get caught up in trying to position myself on top, and remind me that in serving and being willing to be lowly, i get closer to You and Your will for my life and eternity. Amen

S:

Mark 10: 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. 42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

O:

Thinking like humans do, thinking of themselves, James and John ask about their future, about being set up for the best positions in Jesus' kingdom.  Jesus calls them on it, and points them to serving and being the lowest, as the one with the 'best' position in God's kingdom.

A:

The best position or place in God's view of reality, is the lowest, the position of the servant, who is willing to do anything to love and help others.  Jesus is the ultimate expression of that, becoming the lowest so he could save all humanity: "...even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many."

P:

Jesus, forgive me when I get caught up in trying to position myself on top, and remind me that in serving and being willing to be lowly, i get closer to You and Your will for my life and eternity. Amen

S:

Mark 10: 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. 42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

O:

Thinking like humans do, thinking of themselves, James and John ask about their future, about being set up for the best positions in Jesus' kingdom.  Jesus calls them on it, and points them to serving and being the lowest, as the one with the 'best' position in God's kingdom.

A:

The best position or place in God's view of reality, is the lowest, the position of the servant, who is willing to do anything to love and help others.  Jesus is the ultimate expression of that, becoming the lowest so he could save all humanity: "...even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many."

P:

Jesus, forgive me when I get caught up in trying to position myself on top, and remind me that in serving and being willing to be lowly, i get closer to You and Your will for my life and eternity. Amen

S:

Mark 10:17 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” 20 And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” 21 And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”

O:

A rich man, desperate to do the right thing, kneels before Jesus to find out if he's OK.  He recognizes that Jesus knows these things, being some kind of great teacher.  Jesus asks him if he's kept all the Law of God.  The man actually seems to have lived a righteous life, keeping the Law as good as anyone ever has.  So Jesus asks the man to take the final step and give everything to God, by giving all of his wealth to the poor.  The man just couldn't do that, showing his heart and what really was his god.  When asked aobut it, Jesus tells His followers that it is tough to do such a thing, but God's work in our hearts and lives make it poosible to trust God and give anything and everything to Him in love for others.

A:

It's not easy to give everything to God.  We can often experience, even in the Church, in a culture of expectation: it's expected that we give, when not everyone else might be.  Jesus starts with the Law, like tithing (giving the first 10%+ to God), but doesn't stop there.  Jesus says He wants it all, every day.  Showing that trust is what God works in us.  It's only possible through Him and His love. 

P:

Jesus, everything is possible through You.  Help me trust You today, offering anything and everything if it's needed.  Amen

S:

Mark 10:17 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” 20 And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” 21 And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”

O:

A rich man, desperate to do the right thing, kneels before Jesus to find out if he's OK.  He recognizes that Jesus knows these things, being some kind of great teacher.  Jesus asks him if he's kept all the Law of God.  The man actually seems to have lived a righteous life, keeping the Law as good as anyone ever has.  So Jesus asks the man to take the final step and give everything to God, by giving all of his wealth to the poor.  The man just couldn't do that, showing his heart and what really was his god.  When asked aobut it, Jesus tells His followers that it is tough to do such a thing, but God's work in our hearts and lives make it poosible to trust God and give anything and everything to Him in love for others.

A:

It's not easy to give everything to God.  We can often experience, even in the Church, in a culture of expectation: it's expected that we give, when not everyone else might be.  Jesus starts with the Law, like tithing (giving the first 10%+ to God), but doesn't stop there.  Jesus says He wants it all, every day.  Showing that trust is what God works in us.  It's only possible through Him and His love. 

P:

Jesus, everything is possible through You.  Help me trust You today, offering anything and everything if it's needed.  Amen

S:

Mark 10:17 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” 20 And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” 21 And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”

O:

A rich man, desperate to do the right thing, kneels before Jesus to find out if he's OK.  He recognizes that Jesus knows these things, being some kind of great teacher.  Jesus asks him if he's kept all the Law of God.  The man actually seems to have lived a righteous life, keeping the Law as good as anyone ever has.  So Jesus asks the man to take the final step and give everything to God, by giving all of his wealth to the poor.  The man just couldn't do that, showing his heart and what really was his god.  When asked aobut it, Jesus tells His followers that it is tough to do such a thing, but God's work in our hearts and lives make it poosible to trust God and give anything and everything to Him in love for others.

A:

It's not easy to give everything to God.  We can often experience, even in the Church, in a culture of expectation: it's expected that we give, when not everyone else might be.  Jesus starts with the Law, like tithing (giving the first 10%+ to God), but doesn't stop there.  Jesus says He wants it all, every day.  Showing that trust is what God works in us.  It's only possible through Him and His love. 

P:

Jesus, everything is possible through You.  Help me trust You today, offering anything and everything if it's needed.  Amen

S:

Mark 10:13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

O:

When His followers pushed away the people and their annoying little kids, Jesus reprimanded those closest to Him.  He was angry that they'd do such a thing.  Children, and all who are weak and needy, the simple ones of the world, are the very ones that God's Kingdon, Jesus' reign of love, is for.  Jesus didn't leave it alone, He used the opportunity to teach everyone about receiving such a Kingdom love, that it's for the simple and weak ones - all of us in other words.  Then, to demonstrate His love, Jesus blessed and hugged the kids.

A:

All of us, when it comes down to the basics, are simple, weak, and  in need of help.  We can't control all the details or variables of life.  We need Someone outside of us, who is greater than us and this universe, to walk with us, bless us, hug us.  We are truly like children, and when we look to Jesus and His love, when we're baptized, we enter His Kingdom.  Are you looking to Him today, letting Him bless you, and inviting other 'simple' people to look to Him too? 

P:

Jesus, help me look to You alone, and invite others to do the same.  Thank You for hugging me and blessing me, for not rejecting me, but welcoming me into Yoru arms. Amen

S:

Mark 9:30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he did not want anyone to know, 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

O:

Jesus wanted to keep showing His power and love for His folowers, so He told them about what would soon take place: His being arrested, killed and in three days rise from death.  He wanted to calm their fears, but they were still afraid.

A:

Have you ever been afraid?  Jesus comes into your fears and wants you to know how powerful and loving He is.  He proclaimed His coming death and resurrection to calm those He knew best.  He is the Ultimate Prophet, telling the Word of God with 100% accuracy.  He does the same thing for us - as we read this, we see His power and love toward them (and us) and that He is faithful to do everything He says He will.  That means He rose3 to prove He loves you, to deliver you from all your fears, etc.

P:

Jesus, help me today to trust You.  You really do love me, and You fulfill all Your promises. Thanks. Amen

S:

Mark 9:30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he did not want anyone to know, 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

O:

Jesus wanted to keep showing His power and love for His folowers, so He told them about what would soon take place: His being arrested, killed and in three days rise from death.  He wanted to calm their fears, but they were still afraid.

A:

Have you ever been afraid?  Jesus comes into your fears and wants you to know how powerful and loving He is.  He proclaimed His coming death and resurrection to calm those He knew best.  He is the Ultimate Prophet, telling the Word of God with 100% accuracy.  He does the same thing for us - as we read this, we see His power and love toward them (and us) and that He is faithful to do everything He says He will.  That means He rose3 to prove He loves you, to deliver you from all your fears, etc.

P:

Jesus, help me today to trust You.  You really do love me, and You fulfill all Your promises. Thanks. Amen

S:

Mark 9:30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he did not want anyone to know, 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

O:

Jesus wanted to keep showing His power and love for His folowers, so He told them about what would soon take place: His being arrested, killed and in three days rise from death.  He wanted to calm their fears, but they were still afraid.

A:

Have you ever been afraid?  Jesus comes into your fears and wants you to know how powerful and loving He is.  He proclaimed His coming death and resurrection to calm those He knew best.  He is the Ultimate Prophet, telling the Word of God with 100% accuracy.  He does the same thing for us - as we read this, we see His power and love toward them (and us) and that He is faithful to do everything He says He will.  That means He rose3 to prove He loves you, to deliver you from all your fears, etc.

P:

Jesus, help me today to trust You.  You really do love me, and You fulfill all Your promises. Thanks. Amen

S:

Mark 9:21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

O:

Desperate for Jesus to help his son, this dad throws himself at Jesus' mercy, clinging to Jesus' power as the last resort, begging Jesus to help his son from the demonic condition he was in.  Jesus calls the man to trust him.  Jesus will do the best for his son, but Jesus wants the man to trust Him.  The father, realizing what's happening, showing signs of being challenged by such a trust, cries out for Jeus to help his unbelief. 

A:

How have you trusted Jesus?  Have you ever thought you needed more faith? The reality is that Jesus truly can to all things, and asks us to simply trust Him to do His best.  Do you trust Him?  is there any situation that you have in your life that challenges your trust in Jesus' ability and powerful love to handle?  Have you cried out to Him so many times and seen nothing happen, that you wonder if He really cares?  He's listening right now, again, and says: "All things are possible for one who believes."

P:

Jesus, help our unbelief.  Strengthen us that we would trust You always, and believe You alone are able to help us.  Amen

S:

Mark 9: 2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only.

O:

Jesus, showing His true identity, glowed with a holy radiance, standing next to two of the greatest prophets of God of all time.  He was shining out His glory for His followers to see.  He showed the whole world through this recorded account, that He is god, Almighty, all powerful, all ruling, all love.  Not only this, but jesus showed them He is higher than anyone else, so in the end of all things: it's only Him.

A:

Jesus wanted to show those closest to Him who He is: God.  Just like in the centuries before Jesus was born, God showed His power and authority, His very presence to His people, in theophany: a moment when the divine manifests itself to humanity (God showed His true identity to humans).  God did this through fire, clouds, etc. but here, directly to his disciples.  How has Jesus shown Himself to you? His Word, the Bible? Holy Communion?

P:

Jesus, open my eyes to see You for who You are - in all Your splendor and majesty, every day! Amen

S:

Mark 8: 27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.

O:

Jesus, wanting to draw out faith in His followers, challenges them about who He really is: do they believe he is the Messiah, the promised Son of God sent to save the world, or just another teacher, or maybe a special prophet of God like the others around them are saying.  Peter steps up and professes Jesus' true identity.

A:

Who do you say Jesus is?  Do you believe what others are saying about Him?  Do you personally trust that he is God, the Only True God? Do you believe He is the promised one sent from above to help us, deliver us, be with us, forever?  Today, talk with someone around you or e-mail/Facebook a friend about what you believe about Jesus.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You and speak of you to those who don't know how much You love us all. Amen

S:

Mark 8: 27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.

O:

Jesus, wanting to draw out faith in His followers, challenges them about who He really is: do they believe he is the Messiah, the promised Son of God sent to save the world, or just another teacher, or maybe a special prophet of God like the others around them are saying.  Peter steps up and professes Jesus' true identity.

A:

Who do you say Jesus is?  Do you believe what others are saying about Him?  Do you personally trust that he is God, the Only True God? Do you believe He is the promised one sent from above to help us, deliver us, be with us, forever?  Today, talk with someone around you or e-mail/Facebook a friend about what you believe about Jesus.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You and speak of you to those who don't know how much You love us all. Amen

S:

Mark 8: 27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.

O:

Jesus, wanting to draw out faith in His followers, challenges them about who He really is: do they believe he is the Messiah, the promised Son of God sent to save the world, or just another teacher, or maybe a special prophet of God like the others around them are saying.  Peter steps up and professes Jesus' true identity.

A:

Who do you say Jesus is?  Do you believe what others are saying about Him?  Do you personally trust that he is God, the Only True God? Do you believe He is the promised one sent from above to help us, deliver us, be with us, forever?  Today, talk with someone around you or e-mail/Facebook a friend about what you believe about Jesus.

P:

Jesus, help me trust You and speak of you to those who don't know how much You love us all. Amen