GARDENS Part 1: Graves into Gardens
John 20:1-18, Exodus 13:17-14:31, Ezekiel 37:1-14
IN THIS WORLD WE HAVE TROUBLE,
BUT IN JESUS WE HAVE HOPE.
“Everything inside us resists the pain associated with dying–the non-negotiable prerequisite for resurrection. As a result, we often cave in to our fears as a short-term anxiety-relief strategy. Sadly, this usually leads to painful long-term consequences–ongoing inner turmoil, joylessness, and festering resentments. As a result, we become stuck and ineffective in bearing genuine fruit for Christ.”
Geri Scazzero, The Emotionally Healthy Woman, pg 21
IF YOU WANT TO CULTIVATE HOPE
GO TO THE GRAVEYARD
HEAR HOPE CALL YOUR NAME
TRUST THE HOPE GARDENER
SHARE THAT HOPE WITH OTHERS
May 1–Half-Million Mobilization Prayer
Put it on your calendar to pray with Nazarenes around the USA/Canada Region from May 1-June 5 (Pentecost).
Message Reflection Questions
Begin with silence.
What are the “hopeless” situations in our world, our county, our city, our schools and homes?
Where do you need hope?
Read John 20:1-18. Explore the emotional journey of Mary, Peter and the disciple Jesus loved. What did they feel at the beginning and at the end?
Mary had scripture to instruct her about Jesus’ resurrection, angels to inform her about Jesus’ resurrection, but wasn’t convinced until she heard Jesus call her name. Why is it most important to have a personal encounter with Jesus?
Who do you know that needs hope? What can you do to share the hope you have in Jesus?
Close in prayer, committing to share the hope of Jesus.
EASTER READINGS
We have ended the Lenten season and begun the Easter Season. For the next two weeks we’ll read the “post-resurrection appearances” of Jesus.
April 18-23
Monday: John 20:1-18
Tuesday: John 20:19-31
Wednesday: John 21:1-14
Thursday: John 21:15-25
Friday: Matthew 28:1-10
Saturday: Matthew 28:11-20
April 25-30
Monday: Mark 16:1-8
Tuesday: Mark 16:9-20
Wednesday: Luke 24:1-12
Thursday: Luke 24:13-35
Friday: Luke 24:36-53
Saturday: Acts 1:1-11
Helpful Instructions for reading
Start with silence. Recognize that the Jesus in scripture is the Jesus with you where you are.
Thank God for something that happened in the last 24 hours.
Read the text. Take note of phrases and images that encourage you or raise questions. Ask God to seal the truth in your heart.
Finish in prayer for yourself, your family, your neighbors, your co-workers, your church. Pray through the nations at www.prayercast.com/nations.html.