One more day left in our Crave Journey, and we are just days away from gathering together to worship the Lord God Jehovah. I am pumped!
We have been on a journey together. We have prayed, studied His Word together and sought to crave Jesus more than other things; and this weekend we will CELEBRATE victory over sin and death!
“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” [2 Corinthians 9:14]
As we prepare to wrap up our journey, take extra time today to reflect on your experience. Talk to your spouse, kids, parents or a friend about it. Share at least one thing God taught you or affirmed in your heart. Proverbs tells us that “a prudent man gives thoughts to his steps.” [Proverbs 14:15b]
What are your thoughts? If you don’t have someone to share with, write them down and send them to the ministry team. We’d love to celebrate God’s faithfulness with you.
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In the early morning before the first light, it’s discovered that Jesus no longer lays in the tomb. After a foot race to the tomb and a bit of confusion, Jesus the Messiah appears to Mary…first! However, she does not recognize her Lord until He calls her by name; and in that moment, she knows it is Him and she cries, “Rabboni,” which means “teacher.” Jesus only had to say one word, and everything was clear. Isn’t that cool?
Remember what Jesus said about the good shepherd back in chapter 10, “He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” [10:3] He calls us by name! He leads us out! He has led us out of a life of destruction, a life of wanting, a life of fear, a life of sin and any other kind of life you can think of that is lacking in anyway. We can recognize Him when He calls our Name to lead us into life in His name.
After recording a few post-resurrection appearances, which led to greater belief and faith, John provides the purpose of writing this entire book. He summarizes the reason for all 21 chapters in one verse. It’s verse 31 of chapter 20:
“But these 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.”
Can anyone say, “Amen!”?
Before this day ends, kneel before “Jesus the Christ, the Son of God” and thank Him for calling you by name, leading you out and giving you new life in His name.
