The people celebrating Jesus had no idea what lay ahead that week. But what was about to unfold would show how much Jesus’ love could overcome.
Worship this week: Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. -Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m. – Sunday School
10:30 a.m. – Contemporary Worship
March 29, 2015
Devotion: Use this resource at home to guide your household’s daily devotions. You can do this alone, as a couple, as a family; in the morning, during the day, or at night. Find a routine that works best for you.
Pray: Light a candle and open your devotion time with a prayer.
Hosanna! Today we celebrate your coming into the city of Jerusalem, and into our lives. Sustain this joy in us today and all days, for the glory of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Reflect:Reflect on the key verse from Sunday’s reading.
The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” Matthew 21:9
Study: Study the reading and consider the background.
Jesus entered Jerusalem for the last time, venerated and adored as the king who would redeem Israel and save her from the oppression of Rome. The people had no way of knowing that Jesus’ purpose was much greater; to save people from sin and death.
Many things in this story indicated that the people were celebrating Jesus as a king. The donkey and the colt, the spreading of cloaks and the branches were all signs of royalty. The people shouted, “Hosanna!” which means “save, rescue, savior.” They acknowledged Jesus as a prophet, which meant that his actions were directed and blessed by God. A good king would protect the people from harm, provide basic human needs (food, shelter, safety) for his kingdom, and rule with justice.
Read:Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding of Sunday’s text. After the reading, ask the follow-up questions.
Follow the stories of Jesus’ final days on the earth.
Sunday, Matthew 21:1-13, Triumphal Entry
Monday, Psalm 118:26-29, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 27:1-14, Passion
Wednesday, Matthew 27:15-26, Passion
Thursday, Matthew 26:17-30, Words of Institution
Friday, Matthew 27:27-61, Crucifixion
Saturday, Matthew 27:62-66, The Guard at the Tomb
What unique details stand out in Matthew’s account of Jesus’ passion? Which are familiar? Which are not?
Connect: Connect in conversation with others in your household. Discuss the following questions, or simply check in with “Highs” and “Lows.”
- What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
- Where do you see the presence of a dying Jesus in the world today? Where do you see the presence of a resurrected Jesus?
- What are you most afraid of? How can Jesus’ presence in your life help you overcome your fear?
Do: By acting on what we learn, we make God’s word come alive. Do the following activity this week.
Attend Holy Week worship services this week. Write down one thing you get from each service. Carry it with you and reflect on it throughout the weekend.
Bless: Close your devotion with a blessing.
God who comes in peace, sharpen our awareness to hear what is not said in your word today. Amen.
