March 15, 2010

Opening Hymns:
I Surrender All (http://nethymnal.org/htm/i/s/isurrend.htm)
O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing (http://nethymnal.org/htm/o/f/o/ofor1000.htm)

Scripture Reading:
John 11:45-55, 12:1-13

Message
The Pharisees feared for their own well being. They also talked about the well being of all the people. Jesus was a threat to them because they thought if people continued to follow him “the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” In order to prevent punishment from the Romans, the Pharisees took it into their own hand to get rid of Jesus. But, though they seek to do harm to Jesus, God intends to use it for good. Through their plots Jesus dies. His death however, is not meaningless. He dies for all of us… for our sins.

It shocking to me, that a person, who heals the wounded and shows nothing but love to the world, can be sentenced to death. It’s amazing that the same person facing such an injustice would feel sorry for those who sinned against Him, rather than angry. The love that Jesus shows throughout the scriptures from Lent through Easter is heart warming. It is a reminder of how much God loves us… and while I have been told it many times, it is another reminder that I am forgiven. Such a beautiful thing has blossomed from the Pharisees evil plan.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
Let the Walls Fall Down 144

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God