Read: Colossians 2:13-17

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross… Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
Colossians 2:13-14,16-17

The Laws Were the Shadow, Jesus Is the Reality

 

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

Do you like looking at your shadow? Shadows are fun, aren’t they? You can use shadows to made animal shapes out of your hands. At just the right angle, you can look like a giant using your shadow!

Shadows are created by sunlight or other light shining on an object. If the sun is behind a person, that person’s shadow will arrive at a place before they do. The shadow “announces” the arrival of the person before they get there.

In the same way, God once used special festivals, celebrations, and other laws as “shadows.” They pointed people to deep needs they had of forgiveness, spiritual rescue, and rest. They announced the future arrival of someone who would really provide those very things. Once that someone, Jesus, arrived, these shadows would no longer be necessary.

But some people were holding onto these shadows too tightly. They were looking to these laws and traditions to give them what only Jesus could really give. That’s why Paul urged the Colossians, “Do not let anyone judge you!” He wanted them to speak up about how Jesus is what we really need—not following laws and traditions that are only shadows.

So let’s look at ourselves. Do we sometimes place too much importance on things like what day we go to church or what we wear to church ? Can you tell the difference between what’s a “shadow” and what is really about Jesus? Do we believe and live like we are free from shadows—thanks to Jesus who freed our hearts from sin?

Secondly, do we speak up to others who want laws and traditions to be what’s most important rather than Jesus who is our only focus?

Thank God there’s more than just shadows! We have Jesus and all he has really done. He’s the reason you can honestly say you don’t owe God anything. Jesus paid it all. He’s the real deal!

Believe and live like it!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you did what laws, customs, and traditions could not. You paid the debt of sin I owed to God the Father. Help me speak up to others who are caught in the shadows and point them to you.

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

• Use your finger and make the sign of the cross in the air. Of what does that symbol remind you?
• Name two things you are thankful for that only Jesus could do for you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean that Jesus canceled our debt? What was our debt?
• What’s the most important thing God wants you know is true and real?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name two traditions that are unique to your church. Discuss why you observe them. Are there any customs or traditions about church or faith that you might put too much of an emphasis on? Are there any “shadows” that trip you up?
• What’s the best response if someone is judging you?

Hymn: CW 397:1,6 – Just as I Am, without One Plea

Just as I am, without one plea But that they blood was shed for me
And that thou bidd’st me come to thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am; thy love unknown Has broken ev’ry barrier down.
Now to be thine, yea, thine alone, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

 

Read: Mark 2:23-28

One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”
Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
Mark 2:23-24, 27-28

Lord of the Sabbath

 

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

A man was seen digging holes in the dirt with a shovel, then filling the holes with the same dirt. Someone asked him what he was doing. He replied, “I’m planting trees. The guy in charge of bringing the trees to plant didn’t show up, but I’m still going to do my job so I don’t get in trouble.”

The man’s digging and filling of holes was pointless because in the end, no trees were planted. He thought his actions would please his boss and would prevent him from getting into trouble, but in the end his boss was probably upset that he wasted time!

A group called the Pharisees were just like the man digging and filling holes. They thought the reason God gave laws like the Sabbath (which was a day of rest to focus on God and his Word) was to make God happy and make up for when they were bad. They told on Jesus’ disciples. “They broke the rule for picking grain on the Sabbath!” they exclaimed.

Here’s how Jesus answered them: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” In other words, “You’re missing the point!” God made the Sabbath law to encourage his people to find true rest in him, his promises, and his Word. Jesus said, “I am Lord even of the Sabbath.” In other words, Jesus makes God happy because he is the Lord who is also the Savior! He simply invites us to find rest, approval, and love in him.

Are you trying to make God happy or earn someone’s approval and love by following rules? Here’s a way to check: how do you act when no one’s looking? If you obey the rules only when someone is watching, you just might be caught in the trap of trying to earn approval.

Here’s a better way: let your heart rest in God’s promises. Be happy in the fact that God is already happy with and loves you because of Jesus. All that matters is Jesus. He is Lord of the Sabbath. Get close to him. Rest in his care. Then, follow the rules simply out of joy and thanks for having a Savior like him!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being Lord of the Sabbath and giving me love and approval because of your life, death, and resurrection! Forgive me for trying to earn your approval or someone else’s. Fill my heart with confidence in your love and then watch me serve you with joy! 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 was angry at Jesus and his disciples for picking grain on the Sabbath?
• Who loves you so much and approves of you because of his life, death, and resurrection?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does Sabbath mean? Why did God want people to observe the Sabbath?
• Do we follow God’s rules to earn his approval or simply to show thanks for all of his love?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is it easy to fall into the trap of trying to earn God’s or someone else’s love and approval?
• Explain what Jesus meant by saying he is Lord of the Sabbath. How does the fact that he is Lord of the Sabbath bring you comfort?

Hymn: CW 401:1,5 – Your Works, Not Mine, O Christ

Your works, not mine, O Christ, Speak gladness to this heart.
They tell me all is done; They bid my fear depart.
To whom but you, who can alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?

Your righteousness, O Christ, Alone can cover me;
No other righteousness Can set a sinner free
To whom but you, who can alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?

 

Read: Isaiah 6:1-8

I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”
Isaiah 6:1-3

The Triune God Is Holy and Yet Forgiving

 

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

Dontrell knew he shouldn’t have said the words that he did. He probably shouldn’t have even thought about them. But the words sort of tumbled out of his mouth before he had a chance to stop them. And his teacher heard what he said. “This assignment stinks.” Dontrell knew it was a rude thing to say. And he could see that his teacher was disappointed by what he had said. Because of his outburst, the whole class was looking at him. He wanted to disappear, or at least hide somewhere in the classroom where no one would see him.

Everyone knows that “uh-oh” feeling. Sometimes we feel it when we’ve said something we shouldn’t have said. Sometimes we feel it when we’ve wandered somewhere where we don’t belong. Sometimes, we have to tell the truth to someone who’s very big and we feel very small.

Isaiah knew all about the “uh-oh” feeling. When he was anointed as a prophet of God, he suddenly saw just how great and holy God really was. He had a vision of a holy place that sinful human beings shouldn’t be able to see. Standing in the throne room of God, the Almighty King, Isaiah saw that God is perfect—and that Isaiah was not. “Uh-oh! I shouldn’t be here! I can’t tell the truth to someone so holy! I’ve said things I shouldn’t have and done things I shouldn’t have! Woe is me!”

But God changed Isaiah’s “woe” to “whoa!” Instead of punishment, God gave Isaiah a promise: “I forgive you! Your sins are paid for (that is, atoned). Your guilt is gone.” In all his power, our holy God makes us holy by making an atonement for our sins.

The teacher called Dontrell to the front of the room. But rather than a punishment, the teacher saw an opportunity: “Let’s see if this assignment stinks or not… we’re going to work through it together!” The teacher taught, and Dontrell got to be the teacher’s helper. In his grace, God puts us to work, too! Our holy God forgives our sins and makes us holy, allows us to see his power, and then puts us to work in his kingdom. We have a God who forgives, strengthens, and sends… the whole earth is full of his glory!

Closing Prayer:

God, you are holy. That means you are perfect both in your power and in your love. Help me remember your perfection every day of my life until I see you face to face 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 kind of person sits on a throne?
• How many times did the angels call God “holy”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Artists sometimes picture angels as cute or gentle creatures. How did the angels Isaiah saw compare?
• God’s holiness was so pure that even the angels would not look at him. What made Isaiah so afraid to look at God?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Isaiah refers to himself as “unclean” because of his sins. Think of another picture that we could use to describe the problem our sins cause for us?
• The angel said that Isaiah’s sins were “atoned for” with a coal from an altar. What does “atone” mean? With what were your sins atoned for?

Hymn: CW 190:1 – Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee;
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

 

Read: Acts 2:1-21

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Acts 2:1-4

The Holy Spirit Came in Power

 

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

Airports can be very noisy places. Out on the runways, huge jet engines roar as dozens of airplanes arrive and depart. Hundreds of trucks and transporters rumble back and forth with carts full of bags and cargo. Inside the airport is a noisy place too. Hundreds of people hurry from one place to another. They need to move quickly so that they aren’t late for their flight! The noisiest and busiest airports are the ones where people arrive from all over the world. Not only are there more planes, but there are more people—and many of them speak different languages. If you listen carefully, you can hear all sorts of things at once.

On the day of Pentecost, the city of Jerusalem was a busy place. People from all over the world had come to worship God. But not very many of them knew about God’s Son, Jesus Christ. Only a few weeks before, Jesus died for the sins of the world and rose to life again on Easter. But only a few followers of Jesus knew truth of that exciting news. None of them knew how to share that story—especially in someone else’s language!

The Holy Spirit had been waiting for this opportunity. On that busy day in Jerusalem, he wanted the story of Jesus to spread. So the Holy Spirit went to work with great power: he worked in the hearts of the disciples to give them courage to speak, and then he worked in the minds of the disciples to give them the ability to speak, even in different languages! Suddenly, all the visitors in the busy city could understand the story of Jesus! Whether they had come from Egypt, Africa, Rome, or anywhere else, all the people heard the story of Jesus in words they could understand.

Today, the Holy Spirit still works through people who share the story of Jesus in many parts of the world. Not just pastors and missionaries, but people like you and me! While we might not see the same kinds of sudden miracles the disciples did, like tongues of fire and instant language learning, the same powerful Holy Spirit of God lives in us. We can be like those first disciples and confidently tell everyone we know the exciting news about Jesus, because the Holy Spirit’s power is at work in us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, help me use the tools and the time you give me to share the truth of Jesus. Help pastors, teachers, and missionaries do what they do for your glory. May the whole world know the story of God’s love in 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 someone you know who is able to speak a different language.
• If you could share Jesus’ love with anyone, who would it be?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• It usually takes many years to learn a new language. On the day of Pentecost, it took only an instant for the disciples to learn. What does that teach us about God’s power and plans that day?
• If you read all of today’s lesson, the Holy Spirit’s power is displayed in loud sounds, flames, and different languages. How does it make you feel to realize that this same powerful Spirit lives in you as you tell people about Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• When Jesus’ disciples started speaking, some people were eager to hear their message. Others made fun of them. What’s the lesson we learn from that today?
• If you were a pastor, teacher, or missionary, name a country where you would be excited to serve. Identify a cultural challenge you would need to overcome in order to share Jesus.

Hymn: CW 176:1 – Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord

Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord! May all your graces be outpoured
On each believer’s mind and heart; Your fervent love to them impart.
Lord, by the brightness of your light In holy faith your church unite
From ev’ry land and ev’ry tongue;
This to your praise, O Lord our God, be sung: Alleluia! Alleluia!

 

Read: John 14:25-27

The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
John 14:26

The Holy Spirit Came as Promised

 

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

Every year, Josh looked forward to a special visit from his grandpa. Grandpa was a great fisherman, and Josh wished that someday he’d learn to be just as great at fishing as Grandpa was. It was a special kind of fishing that used very special lures, called “flies.” Some of them looked like little bugs, others like giant dragonflies, but each one of them was special, because Grandpa had made them by hand. Josh always wished that Grandpa would teach him how to make them, too. “Someday…” Grandpa promised, “when you’re a little bit older….”

Promises mean alot to people who love one another, like grandpas and grandsons. When promises are made, it is important that they aren’t broken. Until the promise is kept, we need to be patient and trust in the love of the person who made that promise.

Jesus’ love for his disciples was greater than any other love. Just before he died on the cross, he promised that he would someday send them a gift. It was a gift that would keep them connected to him forever. That gift was the Holy Spirit. This person of the Holy Trinity teaches us about God and reminds us of what Jesus has done for us. The Holy Spirit reminds us that Jesus always keeps his promises. When Jesus promises to forgive us, he forgives us! When Jesus promises us eternal life in heaven, we have eternal life! Can Jesus be trusted? “YES!” the Holy Spirit says.

Every year, Josh wondered when Grandpa would keep his promise. And Grandpa did… just not in the way Josh expected. One day, Grandpa said, “If you want to learn, you need something to get you started.” Grandpa then handed to Josh his whole box of fishing flies. “These are all yours now!” Grandpa exclaimed. Josh received far more than he expected! All of his grandpa’s love and more.

On Pentecost, we get to celebrate Jesus’ great gift of the Holy Spirit. He sends the Holy Spirit into our hearts so that we never forget how much he loves us. The Father, the Son, and the Spirit work together to remind us what Jesus did for us when we died on the cross and rose again on Easter. As we grow in our faith every day, Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit “will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” Thank you, God, for loving us so much that you keep all your promises and keep our faith strong!

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, God, for keeping every one of your promises. Because of the Father’s love, the Son’s work, and the Spirit’s power, I know the truth of your Good News. 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 three people who talk to you about God.
• Father, Son, or Holy Spirit—which person of the Trinity did Jesus promise to send on Pentecost?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit on the night before Good Friday. What sort of events might confuse the disciples in the days that would follow?
• The Holy Spirit’s job is to remind us of what Jesus says and promises. What is your favorite promise from Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus speaks about his Father, himself, and the Holy Spirit all working together. Today’s devotion tells the single most important goal that the Triune God has for each one of us. What is it?
• Jesus calls the Holy Spirit an “advocate.” What does an advocate do? What does that mean for you?

Hymn: CW 186:1,3 – O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God

O Spirit of life, O Spirit of God,
Revealer of God’s holy Word,
You come to us from God’s great throne,
From God the Father and the Son,
O Spirit of life, O Spirit of God.

O Spirit of life, O Spirit of God,
Increase our faith in our dear Lord;
Teach us to know the Father’s love
And his dear Son, who reigns above,
O Spirit of life, O Spirit of God.

 

Read: Acts 7:54-60

When [they] heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
Acts 7:54-56

Jesus Brought Stephen Safely to Heaven

 

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

No one likes to be told they are wrong. Think about how angry you feel when your brother or your sister or your friend looks at you and says, “You’re wrong!” Do you feel the blood rushing to your head and angry words crawling up your throat? Do you feel ready to burst into an argument?

That’s what happened to some of the people in today’s Bible reading. Stephen was a believer in Jesus and a very faithful servant in the church. The Bible says that Stephen was “filled with the Holy Spirit,” which means that God made Stephen able to do good work and speak wise words. But then, Stephen was challenged by people who were enemies of Jesus and his followers. God gave Stephen the words to tell these people the story of a loyal God. As he told the story, Stephen pointed out the simple truth: those who rejected Jesus were wrong.

The truth hurt. It made these people furious with Stephen. Their anger boiled over. They turned into a raging mob. Sadly, they dragged Stephen out of the city and threw stones at him to silence him.

What an ugly scene. You might wonder why God didn’t protect Stephen from such horrible people. Our last devotion talked about the power of the truth to protect believers. Why didn’t God protect Stephen when Stephen spoke the truth?

Actually, truth did protect Stephen. God enabled Stephen to look up to heaven and see Jesus standing there, victorious over death, victorious over all the abuse that was heaped on him. When Stephen saw this, he knew that he was on the right side, the winning side. No matter what these people did to him, Stephen would win in the end, because he would be at Jesus’ side in heaven.

What can we learn from Stephen? When people unleash their anger on us, we do not need to become equally angry or hurl arguments back. We can simply speak the truth we know from the Bible: we have a Savior who loves us and protects us. He does this even though we’re sinful, even though we sometimes ignore the truth ourselves. Whenever that happens, God forgives us and reassures us that Jesus paid for those mistakes. That’s the simple truth.

Every time we read or hear the truth in God’s Word, we see a picture of Jesus. Just like Stephen, we are strengthened for whatever this life throws at us. And we look forward to our future at Jesus’ side.

Closing Prayer:

O Victorious Jesus, thank you for people like Stephen who were not afraid to speak the truth. Give me courage to speak the truth whenever I have the opportunity, confident that you are reigning above and watching over me. 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 made the angry people in today’s reading so very mad at Stephen?
• What did God let Stephen see to help him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think it was important that God let Stephen look up and see Jesus in heaven?
• If you could look up to heaven and see Jesus standing at the right hand of God the Father, how would that help as you endure anger on earth?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Give two reason why you think so many people reject the truth about Jesus today.
• How can your family develop the courage and confidence to speak the truth as revealed in the Bible, even when it is unpopular?

Hymn: CW 145:1,2 – Jesus Lives! The Victory’s Won

Jesus lives! The vict’ry’s won!
Death no longer can appall me.
Jesus lives! Death’s reign is done!
From the grave Christ will recall me.
Brighter scenes will then commence;
This shall be my confidence.

Jesus lives! To him the throne
High o’er heav’n and earth is given.
I shall go where he is gone,
Live and reign with him in heaven.
God is faithful; doubtings, hence!
This shall be my confidence.

 

Read: Luke 24:44-53

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.
Luke 24:45

The Ascension of Our Lord

 

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

Think of someone you have not seen in person for a long time. Perhaps a great distance or the pandemic have kept you from seeing each other. You long for the day when you can see one another again. In the meantime, you send cards, talk on the phone, or Zoom to keep in touch.

Now think about how Jesus’ disciples must have felt when he ascended into heaven. Jesus had spent every day with them for the past three years. Then there was the gut-wrenching experience of his arrest, trial, crucifixion, and death. Then came the joyous miracle of his resurrection and the fellowship they shared together during the 40 days after Easter.

And then he was gone. Our reading says, “While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven” (v. 51).

Oh, how the disciples must have missed Jesus! But the Bible tells us something different. “Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy” (v. 52). Wait … when someone you love leaves you, are you filled with joy? Typically, no. You are probably a bit sad that the visit is over. That is normal for most people.

Something powerful must have come over the disciples—something that would help them overcome all the typical human emotions. Today’s word of God offers a clue: “he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.”

The Old Testament (that part of the Bible written before Jesus was born) is filled with promises of a coming Messiah (a Savior) and what he would do. During the three years Jesus spent with his disciples, he said and did things that proved he was the promised one. Little by little, the disciples began to see it. And in the days and moments before he was taken into heaven, Jesus continued to help them understand. Their minds were open to recognize that Jesus belonged in heaven because his work on earth was finished. He went there to reign over and control all things for us. That makes us happy!

Maybe you are missing a loved one. Maybe you are struggling with a health challenge or having difficulties with a friend. Maybe you are angry, lonely, sad, or confused. You may feel all those things. But remember what you know from the Bible: Your Savior promises to speak to you in the Bible and invites you to talk to him in prayer—powerful communication tools until you finally see him in heaven.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, keep us close to you through the tools you give us, until we see you face-to-face in heaven. In your name we pray, 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

• Where is Jesus living right now?
• How can you keep close to Jesus even though you cannot see him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why were Jesus’ disciples filled with joy even though Jesus left them and went into heaven?
• Discuss two ways your family can have that kind of joy.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• In addition to God’s Word and prayer, how can believers remain close to Jesus? (ref. 1 Corinthians 11:23-25, Matthew 18:20)
• Discuss how we as believers can properly balance what we feel about our relationship with God and what we know is true about our relationship with God.

Hymn: CW 282:1,2 – Lord, Open Now My Heart to Hear

Lord, open now my heart to hear,
And through your Word to me draw near.
Let me your Word e’er pure retain;
Let me your child and heir remain.

Your Word inspires my heart within;
Your Word grants healing from my sin.
Your Word has pow’r to guide and bless;
Your Word brings peace and happiness.

 

Read: John 15:9-17

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 15:12-13

Love as Jesus Loved Us

 

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

Start this devotion with an exercise. Stand up, stretch your arms wide, and say, “Jesus loves me this much!” Your arms are indicating a large amount of love, as far as you can reach, fingertip to fingertip. You are also acting out what Jesus looked like when he hung on the cross, giving his life for you, for all people.

Let’s sit down now and think about this.

Most of us would agree that giving up your life for someone is the greatest act of love. We hear stories of people who risk their lives for others. A firefighter who runs into a burning building. A nurse who cares for people during a pandemic. A soldier who goes to war. We call these people brave, and we appreciate them. Then there are those of us who have less daring lives: students, office workers, mechanics, waitresses, teachers, and other important but more “everyday” roles.

In today’s word of God, Jesus said, “Love as I have loved you.” But what does that look like? What if our lives don’t involve anything as grand as giving up life for someone else?

If we think our everyday actions aren’t important, that is Satan whispering a lie to us. He tries to convince us that “Love as Jesus loved” is something we say, not something we can actually do.

Is that true?

Stand up once again and stretch out your arms as wide as you can reach. As you look at the members of your family in this pose, what do you observe?

• Your arms are wide open and ready to embrace someone.
• Your heart is wide open and ready to receive love and give love.
• Your hands are not clenched but open and ready to serve.

This is the pose Jesus assumed for us—arms out, exposed to insults hurled at him yet open to receive all our sins. Jesus surrendered himself to that position because he loved us. Now that love of God that flowed through him gushes out to each of us!

What does it mean to love as Jesus loved? Give up stubborn poses. Open your arms wide for those around you. Offer your hands in service to others—wherever God has placed you. What you do—what Jesus does through you—is important!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, open my heart wide so your grace and forgiveness can flow into my heart. Give me courage to live a life of love, letting all of your grace and love flow through me to 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

• Finish this sentence: Jesus loved me so much that he…
• Give two ways you can show your love to two people in your family.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Besides his life, recall two other things Jesus gave up when he agreed to be our Savior from sin.
• Give an example of a way you can give up something important to show love for someone else.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Share an example of someone you admire who shows love to others the way Jesus showed love to us. How is that person a good role model?
• How can our acts of love and service to others lead to a conversation about Jesus’ love for us?

Hymn: CW 488:1,3 – Savior, Thy Dying Love

Savior, Thy dying love
Thou gavest me,
Nor should I aught withhold,
Dear Lord, from Thee:
In love my soul would bow,
My heart fulfill its vow,
Some off’ring bring Thee now,
Something for Thee.

Give me a faithful heart,
Likeness to Thee,
That each departing day
Henceforth may see
Some work of love begun,
Some deed of kindness done,
Some wand’rer sought and won,
Something for Thee.

 

Read: Acts 16:11-15

The Lord opened [Lydia’s] heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.
Acts 16:14-15

How Can You Help?

 

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

Not many people knew about all the things that Miss Davis did at church. Setting up for communion, making the coffee for Bible study, cleaning up after special events—she did lots of little stuff behind the scenes that most people didn’t know about. That was fine with her; Miss Davis didn’t help out in order to be thanked or recognized. She just saw things that needed to be done and took care of doing them. She looked for ways she could help.

In today’s reading, we meet someone similar: Lydia. She listened to the preaching and teaching of the apostle Paul. The Holy Spirit opened Lydia’s heart. She believed in Jesus as her Savior. She was baptized, along with everybody in her house. Afterwards, she invited Paul and his friends to come and stay at her house. She saw a way that she could help Paul by providing for his needs while he was staying in her hometown of Philippi. Why? Because Lydia was so thankful for the good news of salvation.

The Holy Spirit has also brought us to faith—he has changed our lives—and now we respond in the same way as Lydia. We look for ways to help our pastors and teachers, to do the little things that make it easier for them to preach and teach. Why? Because Jesus showed great love for us, and we want to reflect that love by serving those called by God to be our spiritual leaders.

Sometimes it can be hard to find ways to serve, especially when there are so many other people who are older or who seem better at helping than you are. Sometimes you might feel discouraged or unappreciated. Sometimes there might be so much work to do and so little reward for doing it. Is it really worth trying to help, especially if nobody notices?

Yes! Even if nobody realizes how you help, God still sees it. He treasures the little ways that you help your pastors and teachers. He views your good works as a beautiful response, as a way of saying thank you for being brought to faith and made a member of God’s family. One day, he will say “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) and invite you to share in his happiness. That makes all your helping worthwhile!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help us always to look for ways to help our pastors and teachers. Even if no one sees how we help, remind us that you see and appreciate all we do for those around us. 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 Lydia do after she came to faith?
• How did Lydia help Paul and his friends?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Think of two ways you can help your pastor(s) and teachers.
• What should you do if no one notices or appreciates your help?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Read Ephesians 2:10. What does Paul mean when he says God prepared good works in advance for us to do?
• If you don’t look for ways to help, if you don’t do good works, does that mean you’re not really a Christian? Explain.

Hymn: CW 385:1,4-5 – Chief of Sinners Though I Be

Chief of sinners though I be,
Jesus shed his blood for me,
Died that I might live on high,
Lives that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine,
I am his and he is mine!

Chief of sinners though I be,
Christ is all in all to me.
All my wants to him are known;
All my sorrows are his own.
Safe with him in earthly strife,
I await the heav’nly life.

Strengthen me, O gracious Lord,
By your Spirit and your word.
When my wayward heart would stray,
Keep me in the narrow way;
Grace in time of need supply
While I live and when I die.

 

Read: 1 Peter 5:1-4

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.
1 Peter 5:2

Only Working on Sunday Mornings?

 

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

Pastors only work on Sundays, right? Often, that’s when we see him—when he’s up in the front of church preaching and leading worship. We may not see him much during the rest of the week. What else could he possibly be doing with his time? It doesn’t take that long to write a sermon, does it?

Whether you see it or not, your pastor is doing so much more than “just” preaching on Sunday mornings. He’s talking with and taking communion to people who are stuck at home and can’t come to church. He’s sitting next to people in hospital beds and comforting them and their family members. He’s praying for the members of his church and praying that God would give him the strength and the wisdom to serve them in the best way he possibly can. He’s there for his members when they need him, sometimes at night or on the weekend when his workday should be over and done.

Okay, so pastors work more than “just” on Sunday mornings. What’s the point? It isn’t to make you feel sorry for your pastor or emphasize how hard he works. After all, your parents work hard too. It’s to remind you that your pastor faithfully serves as shepherd of your congregation—in fact, the word “pastor” literally means “shepherd.” God called him to be your shepherd. It also is reminder that you have a calling too: a calling to be a faithful sheep.

How can you be a faithful sheep to your pastor? There are lots of ways: come to church regularly, listen to and learn from what he teaches and preaches, talk to him and tell him what you particularly liked from his sermon or what part of it really hit home to you. Encourage your pastor as he seeks to serve his flock and strives to live up to the responsibility God has given him.

Most importantly, pray for your pastor. Pray that God would give him wisdom to proclaim the Scriptures in their truth and purity. Pray that God would give him strength to resist the devil and stand firm in the faith. Pray that God would give him the comfort to know that his labor in the Lord is not in vain. Pray for him—and then share with him that you’re praying for him. He’ll appreciate it more than you’ll ever know!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you have blessed me with a faithful pastor(s). Help me to be a faithful sheep and encourage my pastor as he guides and feeds me with the truths of 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

• What does the word “pastor” mean?
• What else does your pastor do besides preach on Sunday mornings?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is something you could tell your pastor to encourage him?
• What is a prayer you could say for your pastor?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is it important for you to encourage your pastor? Isn’t coming to church encouragement enough?
• Since your pastor is a shepherd and you are part of his flock, he cares for and watches over you. What are some specific ways he does this?

Hymn: CW 375:1,5-6 – The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my shepherd is,
Whose goodness fails me never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

You spread a table in my sight,
A banquet here bestowing;
Your oil of welcome, my delight;
My cup is overflowing!

And so through all the length of days
Your goodness fails me never.
Good Shepherd, may I sing your praise
Within your house forever!

 

Read: John 10:11-18

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me… They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.
John 10:14,16

Listen to Your Shepherd’s Voice

 

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

In a little town in Croatia (a country in Europe very far away from the United States), villagers raise sheep. They send their sheep out to graze in the morning, and then they call their sheep home at night. You’d think that would be a big mess—hundreds or even thousands of sheep all coming back to the village at the same time and trying to find their shepherds!

But it isn’t because the sheep only listen to their own shepherd’s voice. In fact, if a husband and wife each have their own sheep, the wife’s sheep won’t come when the husband calls, and vice versa. The sheep only listen to the voice of their shepherd, because he’s the one who watches over them, protects them, and even puts himself in harm’s way to keep them safe.

In today’s reading, Jesus calls himself our Good Shepherd. He watches over us. He knows each one of us by name. He protects us from the devil, who “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). He even put himself in harm’s way to keep us safe, laying down his life for us on the cross.

Someday you’ll be in heaven with Jesus and able to perfectly appreciate what he did for you, but what about your life right now? You can’t see Jesus, and even though you know he’s always there watching over you and protecting you, sometimes it seems like he’s really far away. When life is hard, when it seems like everything is going wrong, when your friends make fun of you for being a Christian, what good is a good shepherd that you can’t even see?

It’s true that you can’t see your Good Shepherd here on this earth, but you can still hear him speaking to you through his Word. As you read and study the Bible, you come to know his voice better and better. When it comes to making decisions—choosing how you’re going to behave—you don’t have to be distracted by all the other voices around you. They aren’t the voice of your Shepherd, and they aren’t the voices that are important.

So listen to the voice of your Good Shepherd! He’s the one who loves you, the one you can always trust, the one you’ll finally get to see face-to-face in heaven someday. He’s the one who loves you so much he laid down his life for you, and he’s always worth listening to!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being our good shepherd and calling us to be your sheep. Help us to keep reading and studying your Word so that we can learn better and listen better to your voice. 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

• Whose voice should we listen to?
• As the Good Shepherd, who does Jesus protect us from?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name two ways you can better learn what your Good Shepherd’s voice sounds like.
• Do you like being compared to sheep? Why or why not?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• TRUE or FALSE: The voice of the Good Shepherd can be heard in the voices of your mom or dad.
• Name two voices in your life right now that are distracting you from the voice of your good shepherd.

Hymn: CW 375:1,3 – The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my shepherd is,
Whose goodness fails me never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

Confused and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love he sought me
And on his shoulder gently laid
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

 

Read: Acts 4:9-12

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

One Way

 

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

The apostle Peter had quite the life. As a simple fisherman, he was called by Jesus to be one of his first disciples and became one of his closest friends. He was an eyewitness to many of Jesus’ miracles, most importantly his resurrection from the dead. During his ministry he performed miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit and was an important leader of the early Christian church.

Like us, Peter wasn’t perfect. There was the time he almost drowned after failing to fully trust Jesus. He had a quick temper. He sometimes didn’t know when to be quiet. One time, Peter even denied knowing Jesus. Peter was a sinner, but he was also a great man who is now with Jesus in heaven.

You know what had nothing to do with him being saved? The fact he was a great man. Peter knew this truth. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, Peter realized the only way to eternal life in heaven is through trusting in Jesus, the risen Savior. This is the clear message he taught in our reading for today and throughout his ministry.

Sadly, there are many people today who feel there are many ways to get to heaven. They believe the way to heaven is like a mountain with many paths leading to the top. They are convinced that it doesn’t matter what God you believe in, as long as you do the right thing and are a good person, you can earn your way to heaven. This type of teaching is false and very dangerous.

The Bible is clear that there is only one way to heaven, and that is through faith in Jesus. To the unbelieving world this message is foolishness. As God’s children, this message brings us peace. If our salvation was based on our goodness, there would be no hope for our future. We sin each and every day by the hurtful words we speak and our unkind actions towards others. That is what makes the message of Easter so remarkable. We have done nothing to deserve God’s love and grace, yet he did everything necessary for us to be saved. We thank God the Holy Spirit for leading us to trust in the only one who truly saves, Jesus!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, forgive us for the times we are tempted to believe we play a part in you wanting to save us. Help us to trust in the only one who truly saves, our Savior 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 one thing you did today that proves you sin.
• How did Jesus save you from your sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How do many people incorrectly believe that we can get to heaven?
• Why do we have peace knowing that Jesus did everything needed for us to be saved?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do we say the message of Jesus is foolishness to the unbelieving world?
• What do other religions teach about the way to get to heaven?

Hymn: CW 76:3,4 – Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love

Jesus! Name of priceless worth
To the fallen here on earth
For the promise that it gave,
“Jesus shall his people save.”

Jesus! Only name that’s giv’n
Under all the mighty heav’n
Whereby all, to sin enslaved,
Burst their fetters and are saved.

 

Read: 1 Corinthians 15:12-22

And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
1 Corinthians 15:17-20

A Truly Happy Ending

 

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

Imagine if the following movies ended this way:

• The glass slipper was accidentally dropped and shattered. Prince Charming ended up marrying one of Cinderella’s stepsisters.
• Aladdin foolishly wasted his third and final wish on a Cherry Icee. The genie remains trapped in the lamp.
• Luke Skywalker’s mission to destroy the reactor system of the Death Star failed. The Empire still rules the galaxy.

What a difference it would make for some of our favorite stories if these events were how they finished. They certainly wouldn’t be the feel-good movies, with a happy ending, that we love to watch over and over again.

Paul was dealing with individuals in the Corinthian church who were denying the happy ending of Easter. They were arguing that people are not able to be risen from the dead. What a devastating ending for Christians if true!

If people cannot be raised from the dead, that means Jesus did not rise from the dead. If Jesus did not come back to life that would mean our faith would be in a still dead Savior which would be pointless. We would remain lost in our sins and our hope of living eternally in heaven would be a false confidence.

Praise be to God that the message of Easter is not just a made-up story to make us feel better. It is an undeniable fact that Jesus physically rose from the dead. There were hundreds of eyewitnesses who saw Jesus in the flesh before he returned to heaven. Paul was so sure because he himself saw his risen Savior. The happy ending to Easter will never change!

The truth of Jesus’ resurrection means everything for us. On judgment day, everyone who ever lived will be raised from the dead. Those who have received the gift of faith in Jesus as their Savior will be joined with him in heaven. The best part of this happy ending for believers is that there is no ending. In the perfection of heaven, we will live forever with no end. There are still many people today who don’t believe in the resurrection of the dead, but we can have complete assurance that because Jesus lives, we also will live forever.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, you showed your power over sin and death by rising from the dead. Work in us the confidence of faith that we will also be raised on judgment day to live with you forever 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 does it mean that people were eyewitnesses of Jesus resurrection?
• What do you think heaven will be like?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What would it mean for believers if Jesus didn’t truly rise from the dead?
• Why can we be confident that Jesus did truly rise from the dead?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does the assurance of Jesus’ resurrection provide us comfort as we face challenges throughout our life?
• What can we learn from Paul as he defended the truth of the resurrection with those in the Corinth congregation who denied it?

Hymn: CW 152:7 – I Know that My Redeemer Lives

He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death.
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.

 

Read: John 20:19-31

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples which are not recorded in this book. But these words are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
John 20:29-31

Prove It

 

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

There are certain things that are hard to believe unless you see it. In December there was a story about Steph Curry making 105 three pointers in a row at practice without missing. If you have ever played basketball, you know how impossible that sounds. With a quick Google search you can actually watch the 5-minute video of him making three after three until he finally misses on his 106th shot.

Three days after Jesus died on the cross, he appeared in person to his disciples. They could barely believe it, and they were surprised to see Jesus in the flesh. One of the disciples, Thomas, was not there that night. The disciples told Thomas they saw Jesus, but he would not believe unless he saw Jesus himself. This is why he is often called doubting Thomas.

A week later, Jesus again visited the disciples, and this time Thomas was there with them. Thomas talked with Jesus and even touched his wounds. After seeing Jesus face-to-face, Thomas stopped doubting and believed.

At times we can be a lot like Thomas. We might doubt if God is real. We might doubt if Jesus could truly forgive us for a horrible thing that we have done. We might doubt if certain parts of the Bible at true. We might doubt that doing good things doesn’t save us. As with Thomas we want God to show us proof.

That is exactly what God does in the Bible. We certainly can’t see Jesus with our own eyes, but in the Bible, we can learn that Jesus did everything needed to save us from our sins. While he was on earth Jesus never sinned once, he gave up his own life for us by dying on the cross, and three days later his tomb was empty because he had risen from the dead. God gave us the Bible so that we might know and believe in Jesus as our Savior.

Each time we read and study the Bible at home or at church, God the Holy Spirit is working to strengthen our faith and trust in Jesus. The next time you find yourself doubting, open up your Bible and read God’s perfect promises. Believe! Trust! Jesus your Savior is truly alive!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, forgive us for the times that we doubt the truth found in your Word. Lead us to study the Bible often and increase our trust in your perfect promises. 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 the nickname that people often call Thomas?
• Where can we learn about Jesus and all that he did to save us from our sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• If you were Thomas, do you think that you would have believed the other disciples when they said Jesus appeared to them?
• What parts of the Bible do you sometimes have doubts about or have trouble understanding?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think so many people today have such a hard time believing the Bible is true?
• What steps can you take this upcoming week to be more regular in studying God’s Word?

Hymn: CW 165:8 – O Sons and Daughters of the King

Blessed are they that have not seen
And yet whose faith has constant been;
In life eternal they shall reign.
Alleluia!

 

Read: Isaiah 25:6-9

On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare
a feast of rich food for all peoples,
a banquet of aged wine—
the best of meats and the finest of wines…
he will swallow up death forever.
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears
from all faces;
he will remove his people’s disgrace
from all the earth.
The LORD has spoken.
Isaiah 25:6,8

Death and Tears Are Gone

 

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

Can you see it in your mind? You step into the banquet hall, and the aroma of your favorite foods fills the air. The meal is ready, the drinks are being poured, and dessert (triple chocolate cake with chocolate frosting?) is fresh from the oven. The sound of happy conversation, of laughter, and of joyful praise mingles together. You take a step forward and see your place at the table—reserved there, by name, just for you. And then comes a voice, a familiar voice, the voice of Jesus: “Sit friend, I’ve prepared everything.” And so the feasting begins.

That’s one of the ways the Bible pictures heaven—a great feast, a feast unlike any other. There are people from every place and of every language; every believer in Jesus is gathered together. There’s only the finest food and drink, the tastiest meal to enjoy. And our Savior Jesus is there—the host who’s prepared it all.

But there’s something else that’s special about this feast—something we can’t fully understand: the joy of the feast never ends.

Sure, we experience happy times in life—birthday parties, family get-togethers, celebrations, graduations. But all of these come to an end. The laughter dies out. The smiles fade. The games stop. Eventually everyone goes home. And on top of this, there are plenty of outright sad times in life too! Times when we’re sick, when our feelings are hurt, or when we miss people we love. Times of pain. Times of loneliness. Times of tears.

But when the Bible talks about heaven, it talks about joy that never ends. It talks about Jesus wiping every tear from our eyes. It talks about rejoicing and celebrating and praising that never stops and never gets old. Yes, it talks about life with God forever!

How can this be? Only because of Easter! You see, when Jesus rose from the dead, he didn’t just come back to life—he defeated death, he destroyed it, he swallowed it up forever! And not just death, but all pain and tears and sadness, yours and mine too! That’s the story of Easter. Because Jesus lives, you and I will one day live with him. Because Jesus lives, all our sicknesses, all our hurts, all our loneliness, all our tears—yes, all our pain will end. Because Jesus lives, our place at heaven’s feast is prepared, ready and waiting for us.

Now that’s a reason to rejoice and be glad!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, we praise you for defeating death, pain, and sadness through Jesus’ rising from the dead. Lead us to always trust in your promise to bring us home to 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 is your favorite food you’d like to enjoy in heaven?
• What will happen to sadness and pain when we’re in heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think the Bible calls heaven a “banquet” instead of just a simple meal? What’s the difference?
• Think of the best party you’ve ever experienced. What made it so great? How will heaven compare to that?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• We all have hurts, we all feel pain, we all shed tears. Is there a hurt that you especially look forward to leaving behind when you go to heaven?
• What do you think will be the best part of heaven and living forever? Why?

Hymn: CW 152:3,5 – I Know that My Redeemer Lives

He lives to bless me with his love;
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives, my hungry soul to feed;
He lives to help in time of need.

He lives to silence all my fears;
He lives to wipe away my tears.
He lives to calm my troubled heart;
He lives all blessings to impart.