Read: John 13:31-35

[Jesus said], “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34-35

Dirty Feet and Washed Hearts

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Remember the last time you slept in a hotel room? Did you sleep in a bed with clean sheets? Hotels don’t change sheets once a week and expect you to snuggle in ones already used by total strangers. Eww! That’s why they are in the habit of changing out the bedsheets. As their guest, you want everything to be clean, not dirty, right?

One time, Jesus gathered with his closest followers in a special room for a special celebration. There was the habit of providing water for someone to wash the dusty, dirty feet of the guests as they entered. And should there be no one to do it for them, you would think that after three years of walking with Jesus, one of them would volunteer, “I’ll do it!” But no one did.

So Jesus washed their dirty feet. He didn’t pick the nicest ones or the worst ones. He washed them all and made them clean. Then he asked, “Do you understand what I’ve done for you?” I washed. Now you wash. I’ve set you an example, “A new command… love one another.” Dirty feet were not the real problem. Your feet aren’t your problem. Our problem is our dirty hearts. Out of our dirty hearts has poured out more bad manners, bad feelings, and bad words than we would want anyone to see, much less admit. As Jesus washed their dirty feet, he could see their dirty hearts as well.

The day after Jesus washed and dried feet, his hands went to work on the cross. There, Jesus washed our hearts so clean, our feet can pivot in a new direction to love one another. If you want to find love, don’t look inside your heart. Look at Jesus. “As I have loved you.” There’s nothing new about the idea of loving each other. Here’s what’s new: Before Jesus, no one had a clue what love really is. We’re used to loving in order to be loved. But love for the unlovable? That’s new! And that’s Jesus!

That love doesn’t end with Jesus. It’s a chain, and now you are a part of it. “As I have loved you, so you must love one another,” Jesus said. Jesus set the bar of love high and says, “Go for it! I’ll help you love like me!” And do you know what? When you go for it, people will notice something different about you. They will see Jesus in you!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, today you make very clear what you want of me. Help me to love like you love me so that way everyone will know that I follow you. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What did Jesus wash for his disciples—their a) hands, b) faces, c) feet, or d) hearts?
• What did Jesus wash for us on the cross—our a) hands, b) faces, c) feet, or d) hearts?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• If following Jesus means to love one another, why don’t people just love each other?
• TRUE or FALSE: If you want to find love, all you have to do is look inside your heart.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• AGREE or DISAGREE: We have trouble keeping the last nine commandments because we keep breaking the first one.
• “Love each other as I loved you,” Jesus said. But he did more than just say it, he showed it. List at least one way you can show Christ-like love for each of the following: while doing a chore at home, when arguing with a parent, when teasing a friend.

 

Read: Revelation 7:9-17

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.
Revelation 7:9a

Visions of Victory

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

If you were banished to a lonely island, what would you want to have with you? Your answer might reveal something about what you value in life.

John, the disciple of Jesus who wrote our reading today, found himself in that situation. Because he had followed Jesus, he was exiled to a rocky island called Patmos. It was a place where the Roman government sent prisoners, far, far away from their homes and their families. We don’t know if John was able to bring any belongings with him. He must have felt so alone on that island. He knew many of his friends had suffered or even been put to death for following Jesus. John was old, perhaps tired. What could comfort him now?

God knew what John needed to find comfort. He allowed John to see visions of heaven—a huge crowd of people who died and were now with Jesus because they had faith in him. Their robes were white because Jesus’ blood washed them from every sin. They were enjoying Jesus’ victory, free from sin and the troubles of their lives on earth.

The sight of this great crowd celebrating in heaven is exactly what John needed to see. Yes, he had patiently endured a lifetime of being bullied and mistreated. And yes, John had moments of feeling down, lonely, and longing to relive beautiful, past memories of his time with Jesus. That’s all John needed on that rocky island—that beautiful picture of heaven helped him see that someday, his patience and endurance would be worthwhile. He and so many others who endured to the end of life for the name of Jesus would celebrate their Savior’s victory together in unending life.

But here’s the wonderful thing about John: It wasn’t enough for him to close his eyes and dream of sweet victory. He got busy on that rocky island and wrote down what he saw so that he might inspire others who often experience feelings like him. God gave him the words, and John wrote them down so that now, you can see and be comforted by his great vision of heaven (Revelation 1:1-3).

When we are lonely, tired, defeated, or feeling down, read these words given to us from God, who wants us to see what Jesus’ victory will someday look like in heaven. Strengthened by these words, we can encourage one another in the faith, wherever we are and with whatever we have, just as John did for us.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you have given us a picture of your victory in heaven to encourage us. Help us to be truly thankful and to share that encouragement with others. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Why is a huge crowd of people and angels in heaven praising Jesus right now?
• Do you have to wait until heaven to praise Jesus? (No!) Let’s do it now: Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is the meaning of “white robes” in John’s picture of heaven? How do you get one?
• Describe two parts of John’s picture of heaven that bring you peace and comfort.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Describe a time when you felt a little persecuted or lonely because of who you are or what you believe.
• Look up Hebrews 10:24-25. What can you do so you don’t feel quite so alone?

 

Read: John 21:1-14

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
John 21:4

I Can See Clearly Now

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Imagine this: You are going about your daily business, and in walks Jesus. You’re at the kitchen table. Or with friends for lunch. Or in your room playing with your toys. And suddenly, Jesus is standing there!

Not long after Easter, some of Jesus’ disciples were in their fishing boat fishing. But they weren’t catching anything. They weren’t expecting to see Jesus either. In fact, they didn’t even recognize him at first. He was there, but maybe it was hard to see him through the mist. Or maybe Jesus did not want to be recognized until after the fish were caught.

Yet he was with them, blessing their work. Their fishing was wildly successful that morning.

Jesus is with us as we go about our work, too. It may be difficult to see him because we think of him as seated far away at the right hand of God where he rules over all things. We can’t see him, so is he really here with us? Whenever we ask that question, remember what Jesus told his disciples on the night before he went to the cross: “Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me” (John 14:19). His disciples would always see him through the eyes of faith. They would see him when they remembered his teachings and lived their lives with Jesus’ words ringing in their ears.

When they heard his voice on the shore that morning, instructing them, they followed his direction to “throw your net on the right side of the boat.” And wow! A huge haul of fish! Suddenly, they realized something. Clearly, only Jesus could do such a thing! That’s when they recognized him.

The best way to see Jesus is through the eyes of faith. The Holy Spirit helps us see Jesus and know that he is with us. No matter how dark the night or misty the morning, no matter how frustrating our days, no matter what we are doing, Jesus is with us, blessing everything we do.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Risen Savior, help me see you clearly through the eyes of faith, and help me hear your voice as you speak to me in your Word. Let me never forget that you are with me always. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• How do you know Jesus is with you, even if you can’t see him?
• What can you do if you ever feel alone, or like Jesus is far away?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What can you do every day to make sure that you are seeing Jesus and hearing his voice?
• Jesus blessed his disciples with a whole boatload of fish. Name at least two “blessings” Jesus gives you when you listen to his voice.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Review what happened yesterday. What got in the way of seeing Jesus clearly in your life?
• What would you say to someone who is having trouble seeing Jesus clearly through the mist or darkness of everyday life?

 

Read: Acts 9:1-22

As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
Acts 9:3-4

A Stub Is Not a Snub

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Imagine it’s one of those days. You are really angry. So angry that you feel like you are boiling. You might even storm around your house, tossing and slamming things.

As you storm, you stub your toe. You fall down in pain. As you sit, your toe throbs, but the rest of your body starts to relax. You begin to realize how ridiculous your behavior was. Your rage was getting you nowhere.

Today’s Bible reading opens with Saul storming around in a rage against the followers of Jesus. If you were a Jesus follower and crossed paths with Saul, you were in great danger. The threats, sticks, and stones were flying.

And then Saul stubbed his toe, so to speak. Jesus appeared to him in a way that got his attention and reduced him to a quivering pile of a man. He lost his sight and was completely dependent on his friends to guide him to the city where he was going.

Humbled, Saul sat for three days in darkness, coming down from his raging high.

When God knew Saul was ready, he restored Saul’s sight. And then God gave Saul an even better gift—the Holy Spirit filled his heart (v. 17). With these gifts, God in his grace gave Saul physical and spiritual sight. We know this because Saul began hanging out with the followers of Jesus, talking about Jesus and proclaiming his name. These are things Saul never would have done while he was blinded by his rage against Jesus.

Saul is an example of God’s incredible grace and his power to change hearts. Can we see ourselves in Saul? We too are sinners. We often get ourselves so worked up about this or that, and we fail to see what God intends for us to see. God might let you stub your toe just to get your attention, to get you to calm down so you can see things clearly. It’s his way of saying, “My child, what are you doing?”

When we’re finally calm and repentant, we can better get Jesus’ words to us, what he did for us, his power, his victory. As we listen to his voice, the Holy Spirit fills us and helps us see those things.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Lord, open our eyes to see your work in our lives, as you’ve done for so many people who once sat in darkness. Thank you for allowing us to see you clearly and share in your victory over darkness! Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What calms you down when you get really angry?
• How do we know that God forgives us for what we do when we are angry?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Describe a time when God allowed something to happen so you would pay more attention to him and his Word.
• How does God bring about change in your heart? (See Ezekiel 36:27, 1 Corinthians 2:12.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name two things that were hard to see and understand because you were angry.
• Saul sat in darkness for three days. What do you suppose he was thinking about? How does the fact that Saul received his sight after three days in darkness parallel Jesus’ time in the grave between Good Friday and Easter Sunday?

 

Read: Revelation 1:4-18

I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingship and patient endurance in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony about Jesus.

I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I turned, I saw seven gold lampstands, and among the lampstands was one like a son of man. He was clothed with a robe that reached to his feet, and around his chest he wore a gold sash. His head and his hair were white, like white wool or like snow. His eyes were like blazing flames. His feet were like polished bronze being refined in a furnace. His voice was like the roar of many waters. He held seven stars in his right hand. A sharp two-edged sword was coming out of his mouth. His face was shining as the sun shines in all its brightness.

When I saw him, I fell at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last—the Living One. I was dead and, see, I am alive forever and ever! I also hold the keys of death and hell.
Revelation 1:9,12-18

Jesus’ Catchphrase

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

A catchphrase is a word or a sentence that makes you think of a certain person. Let’s see if you or your parents can guess who said these catchphrases:

• “Ugga Mugga!” – Daniel the Tiger’s way of saying “I love you!” (from a PBS kids’ show)
• “To infinity, and beyond!” – Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story
• Here’s one for your parents. “Hakuna Matata” – Timon and Pumbaa in The Lion King
• Here’s one to ask your grandparents. “And now for the rest of the story” – Paul Harvey

Maybe you have a catchphrase too. Something that you like to say all the time. Maybe your parents, teachers, and pastors have a catchphrase too. Something that they like to say all the time. Did you know that Jesus had a catchphrase too? Do you know what it was? He said it to John in our devotion text from Revelation chapter one. He said it many times in the New Testament. Some have counted over 300 variations of the phrase in the Bible. His catchphrase was, “Do not be afraid.”

John was afraid. He received this amazing vision of the resurrected Jesus standing among his churches (the lampstands) and his pastors (the stars) in all his glory. He wore a majestic kingly robe. His pureness shined bright white into John’s eyes. He spoke God’s Word (sharp two-edged sword) with authority.

If you’ve ever stood next to a college or professional athlete, you quickly notice how different you are from them. They are big and strong, even compared to your dad. It didn’t take John long to notice how different he was from Jesus. Jesus was perfect and holy. John was a sinner.

Because of this, John was terrified to stand in Jesus’ presence. But look at what Jesus does. He places his right hand on John. It’s the same thing your parent might do if you are having a bad day. And then Jesus says, “Do not be afraid… I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever!”

Jesus says the same thing to you today. He says the same thing to you every day. Although your sins are real, your Savior is too. And Jesus loves you. That’s why he died to take away your sins and rose so that he can put his arm around you in his Word and tell you, “Do not be afraid, now or forever.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, as you came to John, you come to us through your Word. Comfort us, especially in our sins and guilt, with your wonderful catchphrase, “Do not be afraid.” Allow us to live free from fear knowing that you are in control of everything. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is something that is scary to you?
• What does Jesus love to tell you every day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What’s a catchphrase from a television show you watch? Tell it to your family and see if your family knows who says it.
• What do you love about Jesus telling you over and over, “Do not be afraid”?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Pick out a description of Jesus in the verses for today. What do you think it means? If you don’t know, send an email to your pastor. He would love to help you out!
• Next time you are afraid of something, what’s the first thing Jesus wants you to think about? Why can he say that to you?

 

Read: Isaiah 25:6-9

On this mountain the LORD of Armies will prepare for all peoples a banquet of rich food, a banquet of aged wines, with the best cuts of meat, and with the finest wines. On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that covers all peoples, the burial cloth stretched over all nations. He has swallowed up death forever! The LORD God will wipe away the tears from every face. He will take away the shame of his people throughout the earth. For the LORD has spoken. On that day it will be said, “Look, here is our God! We waited for him, and he saved us! This is the LORD! We waited for him. Let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation!”
Isaiah 25:6-9

Best Food Ever

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

When Jayden was growing up, his mom would always make his favorite food on his birthday. He looked forward to sitting down at the table with his parents and sisters and getting the first plate. Do you have a similar tradition in your house? If so, what kind of food do you pick? Jayden always picked spaghetti!

Food is something that we crave. It’s something that we enjoy. It’s something we look forward to. Think about the thirty minutes before lunch when you are at school. Sometimes all you can think about is food, especially when it’s chicken nuggets (or insert in that blank whatever your favorite school lunch meal is). When your parents have a night to spend together, they often go out to eat, don’t they? And my guess is that they might even have a favorite restaurant!

It makes sense that God connects his wonderful message of forgiveness, new life, and salvation to food, doesn’t it? He says that he is going to give us “a banquet of rich food…with the best cuts of meat.” Sounds even better than spaghetti! Of course it is! God’s food is the best ever! It means that your sins are forgiven. It means that “he has swallowed up death forever!” It means that all the things in this life that you don’t like such as tears, pain, and sadness will forever be things of the past when God takes you home to heaven.

And what makes these verses so comforting is the fact that God is the one giving this to us. He is preparing the feast! He is getting rid of the darkness! He is wiping away the tears! He is taking away the shame! He is doing the saving! He is the one who took on human flesh to live a perfect life for us, to die on the cross for us, and to rise from the dead for us!

One of Jayden’s favorite hymns is called “Jerusalem the Golden.” Listen to the words of the first stanza:

“Jerusalem the golden, with milk and honey blest—
the sight of it refreshes the weary and oppressed.
I know not, oh, I know not what joys await us there,
what radiancy of glory, what bliss beyond compare.”
(Christian Worship 890:1)

Whenever we think of how much God loves us—and all the good food he gives us now and promised to us forever, we can’t help but join Isaiah in saying, “Let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation!”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for everything you have given us, but nothing is better than forgiveness and salvation. Give us peace today as we taste how good these gifts are through Jesus! Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Name your favorite food.
• Next time you eat your favorite food, what can it remind you of?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• From the verses we looked at today, what description of God’s gifts to you did you like the best? (If needed, read through the verses one more time.)
• Just like God gives you your daily bread, how does he want to continue to fill you up spiritually?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• List three of your least favorite things in this world. Based on those three, describe what heaven will be like.
• You don’t have to wait until heaven to receive God’s gifts for you. What gifts has God given to you now that will last for all eternity?

 

Read: Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women went to the tomb, carrying the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb. When they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothing. The women were terrified and bowed down with their faces to the ground.

The men said to them, “Why are you looking for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has been raised! Remember how he told you while he was still in Galilee that the Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again?” Then they remembered his words.
Luke 24:1-8

How’s Your Memory?

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Have you ever played the game Memory? If so, you know how it feels when you think a card is in one location, only to flip it over and find out that you were wrong. Then the person you are playing with gets it right. You probably say out loud, “Oh yeah!”

Your parents have probably had a similar feeling when they walk into a room and forget what they were going there for. When it finally comes back to them, they might even say out loud, “Oh yeah!”

This is the same reaction that the women in our verses had when the angels reminded them of Jesus’ words. Jesus had told them that he would willingly be arrested. Jesus had told them that he would die on the cross to take away their sins. Jesus had told them that he would rise from the dead three days later to win for them a place in heaven for all eternity.

But because they were so sad, they forgot for a little while, until they stared into the empty tomb on Easter Sunday and the angels reminded them. They might have even said out loud, “Oh yeah!” as they remembered Jesus’ words.

It’s easy for you to forget where the cards are in the game “Memory.” It’s easy for your parents to forget what they were looking for when they are walking from room to room in your house. And it’s easy for all of us to forget Jesus’ words and promises for us.

That is why he gave us Christian friends, parents, and a church family—to remind each other of Jesus’ words. When you are feeling alone, remember Jesus’ words, “Surely I am with you always.” When you are feeling afraid, remember Jesus’ words, “He will command his angels to protect you.” When you are missing a loved one who has gone to heaven, remember Jesus’ words, “In my Father’s house are many mansions. I am going to prepare a place for you.”

What a great day to join the women peering into Jesus’ empty tomb and say out loud, “Oh yeah!” and remember Jesus’ words.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, continue to put people in our lives—parents, pastors, teachers, and friends—who remind us of your words. Send your Spirit to work through these words to bring us the message of comfort and forgiveness. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Whom do you remember every time you see a picture of a cross?
• Name one thing that you want to remember when you think about Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is something that you recently forgot? How do you feel when you forget something?
• Put to memory Jesus’ words in John 3:16 and remember it tonight before bed. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Discuss: Why is it important to memorize Jesus’ words?
• Share with your family one of your favorite Bible passages that you have memorized.

 

Read: Luke 22:7-20

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
Luke 22:19-20

A Meal Worth Remembering

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Today is part of a very special week called Holy Week. There’s even a special meal with it—usually on Thursday. It’s called the Lord’s Supper because the one who invites us to it is the Lord. The one who prepares the meal is the Lord, because he’s the only one who could pull off this kind of supper. If Jesus isn’t present, this meal isn’t happening. It’s also called the Sacrament of the Altar because the meal is served from the table or the altar at the front of church. The church altar reminds us of the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins.

If you’re a child listening, someday, you will be invited to this meal after you learn more about it. Until then, be encouraged to learn all you can by watching. Here’s what you will see: little pieces of bread and swallows of wine are handed out by your pastor or church leader. Listen carefully and you will hear, “Take eat, this is my body… take drink, this is my blood.” If your mom or dad or grandpa or grandma said those words, you would think they were joking! But because Jesus is saying those words, then what he says must be true.

Still, how strange this sounds, right? If you can’t understand it, remember this: Jesus is preparing the meal, Jesus is serving the meal, and Jesus is speaking throughout the meal. This is a Jesus’ meal. Who does he want to come to his meal? He invites moms and dads, sons and daughters, teachers and students whose mouths got smudged with dirt from arguing and back talking; whose faces are red from getting angry; whose hearts feel heavy from it all and are truly sorry for it all. “Come on in,” Jesus invites as he motions us to his table. “From the look of things, you need to eat and drink for the forgiveness of sins.”

No one else may know what you have done. No one else may know exactly what you’re feeling. But Jesus knows. And that’s why every Holy Week and every week you see the Lord’s Supper in church, Jesus motions again and again for you to come to his table… as often as you hunger and thirst for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus wants you to know that what he did on the cross for the whole world, he did for you. For you. It’s in that meal.

Now that’s a meal worth remembering!

Closing Prayer:

“Jesus is the Word that spoke it;
Jesus took the bread and broke it.
And what His Word makes it;
This I believe and take it.”
(John Donne, adapted from “On the Sacrament”; 1654 edition, p. 352.)

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is the name of the special meal that was talked about today?
• Describe to your parent(s) what they smell like when they sit back down after the Lord’s Supper. Then ask them how they feel and what they’re thinking after the Lord’s Supper.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Because of God’s Word, what did Jesus promise would be added to the bread and the wine in the Lord’s Supper?
• Why is Jesus’ body and blood connected with forgiveness in the Lord’s Supper?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is receiving the Lord’s Supper something to take seriously?
• Discuss with your parent(s) how often you want to receive the Lord’s Supper and why.

 

Read: Philippians 3:4b-14

I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ.
Philippians 3:8-9

It’s Time to Take Out the Trash

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

There’s a tradition in homes and churches this time of year. With the weather warming, it’s a great time to open doors and windows and do some spring cleaning. There are places around your house where clutter accumulates, like the crushed boxes and hefty bags stuffed in the trash can that we push to the street curb. Or like the moldy apple cores and dried out leftovers that go down the garbage disposal. It’s the dirt you vacuum up from the carpet or sweep from the floors of your garages. What do you do after changing a diaper, do you keep it? Eww, wrinkle your nose and throw it away! Why do we jiggle the handle of the toilet after using it? Life would get pretty messy if we didn’t, right?

Before Easter arrives, there’s another place that needs spring cleaning. It’s inside us and our lives. Sometimes, that’s hard to admit. We like to think that we smell pretty good to God. The apostle Paul once thought that too. He worked so hard at being good for God. For a while, it made him feel good about himself. Then he discovered the only thing worth holding onto in life was Jesus. Nothing is as clean and pure and right as he is. Paul said, “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

When you think of your life, what achievements make you proud? What things do you treasure? What relationships do you prize? Make a list of all the things that you are and all that you own and all that you want for the future and ask: Does it help or get in the way of Jesus? And if it does get in the way—get rid of it. Park a garbage truck by the back door of your life. If something doesn’t get you closer to Jesus, toss it in! It’s garbage. It will never be able to make you right with God.

Easter is days away. That makes today the perfect time for spring cleaning inside. It’s time to take out the trash in order to better see and know how good and lovely and right Jesus is. Jesus is the one thing worth keeping!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, I admit there’s a lot of garbage that clutters my heart. Help me get rid of it all so the only thing that remains is you. Everything of this world is nothing. But you are my everything! Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Who takes out the garbage in your house?
• What did Jesus do with the garbage of our sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why does the apostle Paul not want anything to get in the way of knowing Jesus?
• If a garbage truck was backed up to the door of your heart, name three things (could be a feeling, a memory, or action) that you would want to toss in and get rid of.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• List the top three things you value most in your life. Then ask this question: Do they help or get in the way of your relationship with Jesus?
• Explain: For those who follow Jesus, every day is spring cleaning.

 

Read: Luke 20:9-19

Jesus looked directly at them and asked, “Then what is the meaning of that which is written: “‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”
Luke 20:17-18

Learn From Your Mistakes

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Emma rolled her eyes. Her older teenage sister Olivia was crying… again. “What’s all the commotion about?” Grandma asked as she walked in. In between heaves and blowing her nose, pieces of Olivia’s story came out: a boyfriend, a break-up, for the third time. Emma had heard it all before. “Why can’t my sister learn that her Mr. Right is really Mr. Wrong?” she impatiently muttered. “But I love him! I can change him,” Olivia sobbed. Finally, her grandma replied in a calm voice, “Sweetie, I’m going to share something that was once said to me: ‘Don’t tear your pants on the same nail twice.’ Do you know what that means?” Olivia shook her head as Emma listened too. “It’s a way of saying: learn from your mistakes,” Grandma said.

How about you? Do you learn from your mistakes? Before you answer, listen to Jesus tell a story about a man who worked hard to build a winery filled with prize-winning grapes. Then he handed it over to some farmers who knew the grape business and agreed to bring him his fair share of the fruit. But they didn’t. Even after his repeated attempts, they refused to listen. What a huge mistake!

It’s really a story about a God who spared no expense to plant and protect us as his prized people. He didn’t even spare his own Son to save us. He gave his all! He continues to give us ways to express our thanks to him, like loving God and each other more than anything else in the world.

Don’t make the mistake that others have made. They are like builders who reject Jesus as the cornerstone and toss him aside like a worthless brick. Sadly, some people forget their desperate need for Jesus. To do so is to tear your pants on the same nail… again and again.

Jesus, the one we too have treated shamefully… is it too late to learn from our mistakes? No! Jesus tells today’s story one last time for us to see yet again the incredibly patient heart of God and his own undying love. During Lent, Jesus may look like a common stone. He was crushed under the weight of all our mistakes but did not crumble. He proves to be the most important stone for a magnificent building in which you are safe. It’s his Church, and he wants you inside with him!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help us to learn a lesson from today’s story. Thank you for not crushing us when we make mistakes. Build our faith on you and keep us safe as part of your Church. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Today’s devotion shows how important it is to learn from mistakes.

• Talk with your parent(s) about a mistake they gently pointed out to you. What was it?
• What did they want you to learn from your mistake?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

In today’s Bible story, the man who built the winery and rented it out sent messengers to collect his share of the fruit.

• What is meant by “fruit”? Then describe at least one fruit in your life that shows your thanks.
• Who are some of the messengers God sends today to get our attention and encourage us to give him fruits of thanks?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Emma and Olivia’s grandmother said, “Don’t tear your pants on the same nail twice.”

• Recall what she meant by it. Then identify a “nail” in your life on which you keep getting hung up on.
• Discuss the lesson you want to learn so as not to repeat it.

 

Read: Isaiah 12:1-6

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.
Isaiah 12:4,5

Someone Who Likes To Be Praised

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“You did a fantastic job! I’m so proud of you! You worked really hard, and your hard work is paying off!” It’s fun to be praised, isn’t it? It’s encouraging when you do something well and other people notice. It makes you feel good to have your efforts recognized.

We aren’t the only ones who like to be praised. In today’s verses, Isaiah tells the people of Israel that God also likes to be praised. Isaiah encourages them to give praise to the LORD and proclaim his name, to tell others how great God is. Now it’s your turn. Here are three questions:

Why do we give praise to the LORD? Isaiah answers: “for he has done glorious things”—lots of amazing things, big and small. God the Father gave us everything that we need for our life and protects us from evil every day. God the Son became a human being, lived a perfect life and took away our sins. God the Holy Spirit brings the words of the Bible into our hearts so we can believe.

How do we give praise to the LORD? Isaiah answers that question too: “make known among the nations what he has done.” When we recognize everything we have comes from God and when we share the good news of Jesus with others, we give praise to the LORD!

When do we give praise to the LORD? To answer this question, we need to know a little more about Isaiah. He had to speak some very harsh words to his people because they needed to repent. He knew that they would face some tough times because of it. But even in the midst of these hard times, the people of Israel were still called upon to praise the LORD.

The same is true for us today. No matter whether you feel happy or you’re sad and dealing with something very hard, you still have reason to praise the LORD—to thank God for everything he’s done for you. If you’ve already forgotten, go back to the “why” question. Then praise him at home with your family, at school with your friends, and at church with your brothers and sisters in Christ. Praise him for loving you and adopting you as his child. Praise him for all the glorious things he’s done!

Closing Prayer:

LORD, we have so many reasons to praise you! Help us to praise you in every situation, and give us the courage to tell others of the glorious things you have done. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• We all like to be praised. According to Isaiah, who else likes to be praised?
• When should we give praise to the LORD?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean to praise God’s name?
• Name one specific thing you can do tomorrow to praise God.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• TRUE or FALSE: Praising God is best when things are going really well in life.
• Think of one thing for which you can you praise each person of the Triune God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

 

Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

There’s Always a Way Out

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“But lead us not into temptation.” Do you recognize those words? We say them every time we pray the Lord’s Prayer. We ask God to deliver us from evil and to lead us not into temptation. Temptation is a big word! What does temptation look like in our lives?

Different people face different temptations. Sometimes it’s tempting to be mean to our friends and family members because it’s so much harder to show them love. Sometimes we’re tempted to sit through a devotion without really hearing a single word. Sometimes we’re tempted to rely on ourselves or other people in our lives rather than trusting in God. And the list goes on.

We face temptation every day. Sometimes we make wise decisions and avoid them. Too often, we don’t. Often, giving in to the temptation seems like more fun or the cool thing to do. Giving in is easy; standing strong is hard.

That’s the bad news. But there’s also good news! Like us, Jesus faced temptation that wasn’t easy for him. But unlike us, he stood up to every temptation perfectly. That’s why God’s Word for today says that because Jesus suffered while he was being tempted, he understands exactly what we are going through when we’re being tempted—and he can help us when we face temptation.

Having someone who can help us through our temptations is really good news. And there’s even more good news in today’s reading. Temptation will always be part of our life. But God promises he will also provide a way out. Even if we can’t always see what that way out is, we can be sure that it’s there.

We won’t always resist temptation perfectly. We won’t always take that way out. We’ll fail sometimes. But don’t give up! Confess the times we fail and ask for God’s forgiveness. Then, try again when the next temptation comes. And always thank God that Jesus perfectly resisted every temptation in our place—so that one day, we can be with him in heaven where we’ll be free of every temptation. Until then, know God will always provide a way out!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for resisting every temptation and being without sin. Help me to get better at resisting when I am tempted. Show me the way out that you have promised in your Word. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Temptation is a big word. Can you explain what it means?
• Who perfectly resisted every temptation?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean to be tempted?
• How do you know that Jesus can help you when you are tempted?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What should you do when you’re faced with temptation and you can’t see the way out?
• Think of a temptation that you face regularly. What wise decision can you make to resist it?

 

Read: Luke 13:1-9

Then [Jesus] told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’

“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
Luke 13:6-9

Help in Doing Good

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Theo was mad. Everything was great—he and his best friend Anton had been happily playing. But then Anton took Theo’s toy and wouldn’t give it back. So Theo went and told his mom. He wanted her to tell Anton to give the toy back. He wanted his mom to be just as mad has he was.

Instead, Theo’s mom explained that Anton didn’t have brothers and sisters like Theo, so Anton needed practice in learning how to share. Rather than getting mad at Anton, Theo’s mom suggested that through his actions, he be patient and show Anton how to share.

Just like Anton, there’s something that everybody isn’t good at. But it’s something much more serious than sharing toys. Because of sin, none of us are good at obeying God. None of us are good at living like God tells us to live. On our own, we’re just like the tree that Jesus talks about in today’s reading—none of us are good at producing spiritual fruit.

There’s a struggle that happens inside us every day, a struggle between our naughty side and the nice, new person we are in Christ. The apostle Paul sums up this struggle: “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing” (Romans 7:19). How terrible! Is there any possible way to win that struggle and do good?

Left on our own, we will always lose that struggle between good and evil on this side of heaven. Anton needed help learning how to share. The tree in today’s reading needed help in producing fruit. When it comes to living like Christians, we need help too.

Where does that help come from? It comes from Jesus. He crushed everything wrong with us and made everything right between us and God. He showed us through his words and actions how to obey God. It comes from God’s Word, where God speaks to us and strengthens our faith. And it comes from everybody who helps you better understand God’s Word: faithful pastors, loving teachers, and patient parents.

One more thing: don’t be confused about why we do good. We don’t do good to make God like us more or to avoid being punished. We do good because we love God. We appreciate everything he’s done for us. Now, we want to do what God asks of us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being so patient with us as we seek to obey God. Forgive us when we don’t. Encourage us to always look to you for how to live. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Who can help us do good?
• Where can we learn more about how to obey God?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why can’t we perfectly obey God on our own?
• What’s one way you could have acted differently today in order to better obey God?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Even though you will always struggle with your sinful nature, why don’t you have to worry that God will lose patience with your struggle?
• Jesus’ story talked about a tree in danger of getting cut down because there was no fruit. What does spiritual fruit look like in your life? Why is it so important?

 

Read: Philippians 3:17-4:1

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Philippians 3:20-4:1

Heaven Is My Home

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

For college basketball fans, this is the most exciting time of the year: March Madness. By the morning of March 17, a field of 64 teams will be set and the games will begin. Can you imagine what it would be like if you knew before the tournament started that your favorite team was going to win it all? Their best player could be injured, and they could be down by 20 points at halftime, but it wouldn’t matter because you knew for certain they would be crowned the champions in the end.

Today Paul is confident we can have something much more important than winning a basketball tournament. It’s citizenship in heaven. Most countries insist that you give up your former citizenship before taking up a new one. As Christians we have two places we call home. While we live on earth, our future home is in heaven. This means our homes and time here on earth are just momentary because our true home is in heaven where we will live forever.

We can be sure of our home in heaven because Jesus carried his cross to save us from our sins and gave us the gift of faith. Even though we suffer challenges because of our faith, we are wise to listen to Paul’s encouragement to “stand firm in the Lord.”

There is no easy way to avoid these challenges. Crosses will be a part of life while in our home on earth. We can find joy in them because we know that Jesus is working them for our good. He uses them to draw us closer to his side and to turn our focus away from the things of this world and back to him.

We can find contentment in any situation because we know that when Jesus returns, he will take us to be with him in heaven. Our bodies will be transformed, and there will be no more pain or suffering. Until we receive our crown in heaven, we ask Jesus to give us the strength and determination to take up our cross and follow him.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we ask that you give us the strength to stand firm as we face crosses here on earth. Thank you for being willing to die on the cross to save us from our sins so that one day we might receive our crown in heaven. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What do you like most about your home?
• Where will you live forever one day because of Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What city and state are you a citizen of?
• What does Paul mean when he says we are citizens of heaven?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Give an example of a cross that you might face as a citizen on earth.
• How does knowing Jesus already won you victory in heaven help you deal with the crosses you face on earth?

 

Read: Luke 4:1-13

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil… Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” …Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” …Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” When the devil had finished all this tempting he left him until an opportune time.
Luke 4:1,2,4,8,12,13

A Battle for the Ages

 

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

There was a time in the United States where boxing was one of the most famous sports. Your grandparents and parents could probably tell you about some of the greatest boxing matches: Ray Robinson vs. Jake LaMotta in 1951, Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier in 1974, and Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson in in 1997. These were epic battles that were all over the news.

In our reading for today we see Jesus, our perfect champion, in a battle for the ages against the devil. Knowing that Jesus is weak from 40 days in the wilderness without food, the devil strikes first. He tempts Jesus to turn stones into bread. Jesus sidesteps the attack with the Word. Next, Satan tempts Jesus to worship him. Jesus counterpunches with the Word. Finally, the devil foolishly tempts Jesus to jump off the temple and trust that angels will save him. Jesus knocks down the devil and defeats him with the Word.

This wouldn’t be the last time that Jesus and the devil would battle. An epic battle would take place on the cross. Jesus would deliver a knockout blow that the devil still hasn’t recovered from to this day!

The 40-day season of Lent provides Christians an opportunity to reflect on our battles and the crushing consequences of sin. Lent calls out the importance of repentance—to turn away from sin. This section of Scripture lays out the weapons given us to fight temptation: Jesus Christ and his Word.

When we are tempted to disobey our parents and teachers, the Bible guides us to respect those in authority. The Bible directs us to love our neighbor even when we find that to be difficult with certain people. Acts of obedience when we are tempted are not done so that we can earn special favor with God. They are ways of showing our thanks to Jesus, our champion. He fought for us. He lived a perfect life for us. He won for us!

Lent may feel a little dark and gloomy, but it is also a season of great hope. These 40 days give us time at church and at home to double-down on hearing God’s Word, to fight against temptations from the devil. Then, at the completion of our 40-day journey, we will celebrate the sweet victory of our true champion as redeemed and forgiven children of God!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Savior, you have set the example for us as we face temptations. Help us to be regular students of your Word and lead us to live our lives in a way that brings you glory. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Who tempted Jesus to sin in the wilderness?
• Did Jesus listen to the devil? Did Jesus ever sin?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• In what three ways did the devil tempt Jesus to sin in our reading?
• What can we learn from Jesus’ response to each of these temptations?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why did the devil work so hard to get Jesus to sin?
• Think of one specific way during Lent that you and your family can show thanks and gratitude to Jesus for doing everything needed for us to be saved.