Did you know that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most examined claims in all of history?  As a result, we have considerable evidence, including historical documentation, eyewitness testimony, circumstantial evidence, supportive archaeological discoveries, and countless changed lives.  If this were a courtroom, the evidence would not be dismissed; it would demand a verdict, and the people standing at the empty tomb on that first Easter Sunday would agree!

First, consider Mary Magdalene and Jesus' Aunt Mary, who were first on the scene at the empty tomb. Matthew 28:1 says, "After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb."
Mark and Luke's accounts reveal that the women came to anoint the Lord's body with spices and oils, a practice of the Jewish burial process. However, their devotion quickly turned to fear when they discovered the empty tomb and initially thought that the body had been stolen. Seeing their distress—with the pain of Jesus' death compounded by the thought of someone taking His body—the angel reassured them, saying, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." (Matthew 28:5-6)
We are told in John's account that after telling the disciples about what the angel said, Mary Magdalene went back and saw Jesus herself!

John 20:11-18 says, “Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, ‘Woman, why are you crying?’ ‘They have taken my Lord away,’ she said, ‘and I don’t know where they have put him.’ 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, ‘Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?’ Thinking he was the gardener, she said, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.’ 16 Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means teacher). 17 Jesus said, ‘Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ 18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’ And she told them that he had said these things to her."

Mary Magdalene's despair turned into hope on that first Easter Sunday because of the Resurrection. We can discover that same hope if we are willing to stand before the empty tomb as well. Let us examine the record, consider its implications, and reaffirm our trust in the resurrected Lord.

Sometimes, our hesitation to serve God stems more from fear than an unwillingness to be of service. We may be inclined to trust God, but our concerns about what others might think and the risks involved keep us from stepping forward to serve. If you can relate to this, don't feel bad. A notable figure in the Bible faced the same struggle—his name was Joseph of Arimathea.

John 19:38-41 says, "Afterward, Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus' body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39 With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. 40 Following Jewish burial customs, they wrapped Jesus' body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. 41 The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before."

What changed in Joseph's life to help him go from a secret disciple, as John called him, to someone who took the body of Jesus off the cross with His bare hands? Joseph, no doubt, was a distant eyewitness to Christ's suffering and crucifixion. But after hearing and seeing the Lord's anguish, Joseph no longer cared about his financial prosperity or position. The cross changed his cowardice concerns to courageous contributions.

Joseph is an integral part of the burial of Jesus, for he took Jesus off the cross with his bare hands! His name appears in all four gospels and is part of a significant prophecy in the book of Isaiah.

Seven hundred years before Jesus' birth and death, God mentions Joseph of Arimathea and his tomb in connection with his burial. Isaiah 53:9 says, "And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth."

This prophecy is amazingly accurate. Church history and Matthew 27:57 reveal that Joseph was one of the wealthiest men in Israel. He was also a member of the Council (Luke 23:50) that beckoned for Jesus' crucifixion. However, Luke 23:51 tells us that Joseph opposed the Council's decision.

The cross changed Joseph's focus and helped him overcome his fear of serving. Joseph did all this for a dead Jesus; how much more are you willing to serve the risen Jesus?

After enduring six unjust trials that violated nearly two dozen Jewish laws, Jesus was sentenced to scourging and ultimately crucifixion. This infamous execution method, known as crucifixion, was invented by the Persians but perfected by the Romans, who crucified over 30,000 people before Good Friday.

On that first Good Friday, a handful of supporters, including Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the apostle John, stood at the foot of His cross. Additionally, religious leaders and Roman officials were in close proximity to the cross. Each of their responses reveals a part of the story of that fateful day for those who stood at the foot of Jesus’ cross.
First, we see faithfulness. John 19:25 says, “Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

Secondly, we see mocking and rejection. Luke 23:35-39, “The people stood watching, and even the leaders were scoffing: ‘He saved others; let him save himself if this is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One!’ 36 The soldiers also mocked him. They came offering him sour wine 37 and said, ‘If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself!’ 38 An inscription was above him: This Is the King of the Jews. 39 Then one of the criminals hanging there began to yell insults at him: ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!’ ”

Thirdly, we see belief. Matthew 27:54, “When the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they were terrified and said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God!’ ”

Finally, we see conviction and contribution. Mark 15:42-43, “When it was already evening, because it was the day of preparation (that is, the day before the Sabbath), 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Sanhedrin who was himself looking forward to the kingdom of God, came and boldly went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’s body.”

With these responses in mind, this Good Friday, ask yourself the following questions:
Will you draw near in faithfulness?
Will you walk away in rejection?
Will you declare Him in your belief?
Will you step forward in commitment?

Remember, everyone at the cross responded differently—and so will we. You can witness the cross or read about it and still walk away unchanged. Don’t just feel something today; surrender something and leave the results to God.

*If you want to learn more about the different responses to the cross from that first Good Friday, join me this evening at Crossroads Church or watch the Live Broadcast at 7:30 PM EST.

Starting yesterday and continuing through today, the Jewish community is observing the holiday of Passover, also known as Pesach. This significant festival commemorates the miraculous liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Passover is marked by various traditions, including the Seder meal, which features symbolic foods that represent different aspects of the Exodus story. During this time, families gather to retell the story of their ancestors' escape from bondage, reflect on themes of freedom, and celebrate their enduring cultural and religious heritage.

The origins of this special remembrance are found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Exodus, Chapters 12 and 13. In these passages, God's judgment "passed over" the houses of those who had placed the blood of a lamb on their doorposts. Exodus 12:13 specifically says, "The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt."

The blood acted as a public sign of obedience and faith, differentiating Israelite homes from Egyptian homes to protect them from the "judgment." Furthermore, the blood of the lamb represented the Biblical teaching of substitutionary atonement, where in this context the innocent life of the lamb protected the firstborn of Israel.

Most importantly, the Passover in the Old Testament foreshadowed Jesus' death on the cross because He is our "Passover Lamb.” In First Corinthians 5:7, Paul declares, "…For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed."

Earlier in John’s Gospel, the great John the Baptist called Jesus the Lamb of God. John 1:29-30 says, "The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ "

For believers, we give thanks for God’s incredible deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. However, that Passover is now defined by Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. The institution of the "Last Supper," which replaced the Passover (Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:7–23), is a reminder that Jesus is our Passover Lamb.

A friend of mine shared that he had been ill since birth. As he grew older, his condition worsened, prompting him to pray to God for healing, as many of us might do. Along with his request, he promised to dedicate the rest of his life to serving God's kingdom if his disease were to be removed. Thankfully, God answered his prayers, and my friend kept his promise to serve the Lord until his passing.

Whether we have dire circumstances or not, we want to be the type of people who follow through on our spiritual commitments. When our heavenly Father speaks, we want to listen and obey without delay.

During Holy Week, Jesus shared this poignant story to emphasize an essential aspect of the Christian life:

Matthew 21:28-32 says, "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' 29 'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the Father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go. 31 Which of the two did what his Father wanted? 'The first,' they answered. Jesus said to them, 'Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.'"

Jesus told this story about two sons who were asked to work in a vineyard. The first son initially refused to go to work but later changed his mind and went. The second son said he would work, but failed to follow through. Jesus compared the second son to the religious leaders of his time, who spoke the right words but took no action. Interestingly, the first son was likened to tax collectors and prostitutes, who were viewed as the lowest members of society. Jesus emphasized that genuine commitment involves more than just religious words; it requires real actions.

With this in mind, we must be careful not to prioritize outward religious appearance over inward devotion to God.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 tells us, “When you make a promise to God, don't delay in following through, for God takes no pleasure in fools. Keep all your promises to him. 5 It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.”

Palm Sunday marks a moment of prophetic fulfillment and historic importance as Jesus entered Jerusalem and received a royal welcome. A large crowd gathered, waving palm branches and shouting praises, creating an atmosphere of excitement, anticipation, and celebration.

Yet beneath the crowd's celebration lay a misunderstanding. The people were looking for a political savior—someone to rescue them from the oppressive rule of the infamous Roman Empire. However, Jesus came as a different kind of king: humble, riding on a donkey, bringing peace rather than pride and offering salvation and redemption rather than political revolution.

Interestingly, the same people who shouted "Hosanna!" later cried, "Crucify Him!" While some individuals were sincere, many lacked genuine faith in Christ, which is why their praise was short-lived.
It's easy to honor God when He meets our expectations. When we think we are getting our way.  But what happens when He doesn't? When His ways differ from what we hoped for? When following Him leads to sacrifice and self-denial instead of instant gratification and personal comfort?

To truly follow Christ, we must move beyond praise to a life of dedication. Therefore, treat Palm Sunday as an opportunity to examine your own heart. You can start now by reading
John's account of Palm Sunday: John 12:12-19, The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. 13 So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” 14 And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, 15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!” 16 His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written about him and had been done to him. 17 The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness. 18 The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. 19 So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.”

You will experience opposition even when you do what is right. However, these obstacles allow you to exercise greater obedience and faith in God. Perhaps you have endured bad breaks or unfair treatment; Daniel from the Old Testament can relate. After he was promoted to a high-ranking position in the king's leadership structure, some other government members became envious. They first tried to find dirt on Daniel’s character, but couldn't even find dust! So they decided to entrap Daniel the only way they could, which was by using his faithfulness to God against him.

Daniel 6:5-11 says, "Finally, these men said, 'We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.' 6 So these administrators and satraps went as a group to the king and said: 'May King Darius live forever! 7 The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers, and governors have all agreed that the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days, except to you, Your Majesty, shall be thrown into the lions' den. 8 Now, Your Majesty, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.' 9 So King Darius put the decree in writing. 10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 11 Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help."

These so-called leaders manipulated the king into enacting a "worship law" regarding himself, essentially preventing Daniel from practicing his steadfast faith in God. However, Daniel didn't waver; he prayed and sought God as always!

You must stand firm when faced with adversity, attacks, and accusations. Trust in God's faithfulness and remain steadfast in your faith. Remember, God will humble the prideful but bless those who humbly seek Him. Therefore, stay the course and stand firm. I urge you to STAND FIRM IN YOUR FAITH, for it is your anchor in the storm.

Often, our disappointments can be discouraging, frustrating, untimely, and downright cruel! However, disappointments, if viewed through the lens of faith, can sometimes be divine direction in disguise.

A story that puts that in perspective is about one of England's effective preachers, J. Stuart Holden, who chose not to travel to America for an important conference due to his wife's declining health. Although he had already purchased his ticket, the ship sailed without him, marking a missed opportunity in the prime of his preaching career. As a devoted husband, he dedicated himself to caring for his wife and tried not to dwell on what he was missing across the Atlantic.

We often become too easily disappointed when our plans fall through and discouraged when we miss out on seemingly great career opportunities. Our complaints may reveal that we don't truly understand God as we claim. Sometimes, delays can serve as a protective hand from our heavenly Father. This case was certainly true for Holden, who resolved never again to question God's timing. Why? Because the unused ticket he held was for the new "unsinkable" luxury liner—RMS Titanic.

Isaiah 55:8-9 declares, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 9 As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

As Holden learned, sometimes disappointment, as annoying or disheartening as it may be, can be God's protective hand guiding us away from trouble.

If you're like me, you might wonder, What about the people who boarded the Titanic and perished? Where was God's protection then? What I have come to understand is that we can't answer certain questions on this side of heaven. I also find great comfort in knowing that death on earth is not the end; rather, it is a doorway for believers to a greater, grander life and a time to experience God's goodness.

With that said, I choose to process my difficulties and seasons of despair through the lens of faith, trusting that God has a divine plan even for my disappointments.

While Bible scholars state there are more than 7,000 promises in the Bible, the blessing lies not in the quantity but in the guarantee of the One who pledges.

Psalm 18:30 declares, "God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection."

Hebrews 10:23 states, "Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise."

Second Corinthians 1:20 proclaims, "For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding ‘Yes!’ And through Christ, our 'Amen' (which means 'Yes') ascends to God for his glory."

It is these promises that support us through the storms and adversities of life. Whether we face personal struggles, such as illness, our own afflictions, or the loss of a loved one, God's promises will uphold us. Similarly, in our everyday fears and trepidations, God's promises will provide us with strength.

When Martha was drowning in the grief of losing her brother Lazarus, Jesus pointed her back to a promise He had made earlier.

John 11:38-44, “Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, ‘Take away the stone.’ Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, ‘Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.’ 40 Jesus said to her, ‘Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?’ 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42 I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that you sent me.’ 43 When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out.’ 44 The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go.’ ”

The stone at the tomb and Lazarus’s grave cloths symbolize obstacles, particularly those related to death. As Martha learned, to overcome these challenges—such as fear, pain, and despair—we must believe in Jesus' promises.

What promise do you need to rely on today? Are you feeling fearful, vulnerable, confused, discouraged, overwhelmed, lustful, greedy, mean-spirited, or apathetic? Our Lord's promises remain unchanged. By faith, remove your obstacles with His promises today!

While there are thousands of religions and many denominations, with many attempting to help their followers understand their existence and explain the afterlife, most of the world's population adheres to one of five major belief systems: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.

Some people argue that the five major world religions are comparable, but this is quite misleading. Aside from their close historical relationship, Christianity and Judaism are vastly different. The primary factor contributing to these dissimilarities is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The distinctiveness of the life, deity, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the main theme of both the Holy Scriptures and all of Christianity.
A beautiful reminder of the centrality of the resurrection is captured in the beloved story of Lazarus. After Lazarus died, Jesus comforted his grieving sister Martha with the hope of the resurrection.

John 11:23-27, “Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ 24 Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ 25 Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’ 27 She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.’ ”

Jesus is still asking that question today—"Do you believe this?"  Responding with a "yes" not only reflects your confidence in your faith but also brings unmatched comfort in times of profound loss, as Martha experienced. For Christians, this belief offers hope beyond the grave.

Let us be clear once again,  salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, and in Christ alone, but there still needs to be a decision.  Therefore, this belief is so pivotal that one's possession of forgiveness and eternal life is tied to it.   In God's infinite wisdom and in his spiritual economy, we must exercise faith, just as Martha did, to experience the blessings of the resurrection.  Notice Martha's response, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.”

This confession of faith in Christ demonstrates Martha's spiritual belief convictions, and they are ones that can be shared as well.  Remember, Jesus is still asking that question, "Do you believe?"

If you are ready to believe, please pray this prayer with me:

Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God, who died for my sins and rose from the dead. Forgive me, for I am a sinner in need of your grace.  Please grant me mercy and the promise of eternal life in heaven, for you are the resurrection and the life. Amen.

One of the most significant sporting events in the United States is the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 Men's Basketball tournament, more commonly known as March Madness! After completing a full schedule of regular season games and competing in their conference tournaments, 68 teams, which include the top men's D1 basketball programs in the nation and 8 teams that have to participate in a "play-in game," all receive an invitation, now televised on what is branded as "Selection Sunday." The tournament began on Tuesday for the last eight teams, with the winners advancing and officially placed in four brackets that make up the field of 64. Thus, there will be 32 games on the opening weekend, which starts today, and ultimately this single-elimination tournament will be whittled down to the final four and then the championship game. Now, for some reading this devotional, you know that breakdown of the tournament's structure better than I do.

However, for others, you are saying, "What in the world is he talking about!"
Whether or not you understand the college basketball end-of-the-season tournament format, we can learn a few applicable lessons from "March Madness." First, hard work and discipline pay off! Each team in the tournament has already spent hundreds of hours practicing, training, and holding meetings. While using athletics as an example of discipline and self-control, Paul said in First Corinthians 9:24-26, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."

Secondly, being a good teammate matters! I love watching these college kids play hard and stick together, especially when there's adversity in the game. For example, this one player cost his team a game during last year's tournament and began to sulk, but his teammate came by, literally lifted his head, and helped him run down the court. Sometimes, life can be so hard that we want to give up; it's then that we need good teammates around us to pick us up. Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry one another’s burdens; in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Knowing this, let us be March Madness-minded in our commitment to Christ and to each other. Enjoy the games!

We've all experienced moments when we sent desperate prayers up to the heavens, seeking help. Whether for our own personal struggles or for a loved one facing illness, we poured our hearts into these sincere petitions. Yet, despite our good intentions, those prayers went unanswered—or at least we thought they were.
Sometimes, what appears to be a denial is actually just a delay in God's plan. A family that exemplifies this profound and at times confusing experience of faith and adversity is Martha and Mary, whose brother was terminally ill.

John 11:1-6 says, “Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was ill. 3 So the sisters sent to him, saying, ‘Lord, he whom you love is ill.’ 4 But when Jesus heard it, he said, ‘This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.’ 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So, when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.”

In these verses and those that follow, we learn that Lazarus was gravely ill and ultimately succumbed to his illness. We also see that Jesus had a special relationship with Lazarus's family; however, he did not rush to see Lazarus before Lazarus's passing.  The sisters were disappointed, not necessarily in Jesus for delaying His arrival, as He would eventually make it to Bethany in Judea. Their disappointment stemmed from the belief that if the Lord had been there within their perceived timeframe before Lazarus's death, He could have healed him.

In our experience, we too have asked the Lord to come into our troublesome circumstances or tragedies, yet haven't seen a change or a miracle.  Does that mean God has denied your request?  Is heaven no longer taking your calls?  Absolutely not!  Like the story of Lazarus, God's plans are not limited to temporary illness, death, or even this lifetime.

Take hope in knowing that God is not finished with you or your prayers. Asking for a loved one to be healed or trying to make sense of death in your family does not indicate a lack of faith; it simply shows that we can only see so much from our perspective on this side of heaven.

In the meantime, instead of criticizing yourself or turning away from your faith due to perceived denials of your requests, consider the following criteria for how God answers prayers:

"God always answers every prayer:
If the request isn’t right, His answer is no.
If the timing isn’t right, His answer is slow.
If you aren’t right, His answer is grow.
And when everything is ready and right, His answer is go!"

May you experience the same love and miraculous breakthrough that Martha and Mary received from the Lord Jesus in your times of great need.

On March 17, 461, an honorable man named Maewyn Succat, also known as Saint Patrick, died. History says that Irish raiders abducted him at 16 and enslaved him for several years in Ireland. During this time, Patrick had a dream in which God spoke to him, saying, "Your ship is ready." Patrick was then able to escape Ireland by ship. Shortly after, he experienced another dream in which he received a letter labeled the "voice of the Irish." When he opened it, he heard the voices of all those he had met in Ireland begging him to return. Saint Patrick then returned to Ireland to tell people about Christ. During the thirty years of work there, some say that God used him to convert over 135,000 people, establish 300 churches, and consecrate 350 bishops.

Although Patrick was never officially canonized by the Catholic Church, the historical record of his ministry holds great significance in the hearts of Catholics worldwide. His faithfulness to God and willingness to risk his life by proclaiming the gospel are reasons to celebrate this servant's life. Thus, the 17th of every March, which marks the day of Patrick's passing, is widely regarded as St. Patrick's Day. In Ireland, it is a national holiday. In America, national recognition soared with the first St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York on March 17, 1762.
Sadly, society hijacked St. Patrick's Day. Rather than remembering a man who dedicated his life to serving God, St. Patty's Day relates to drinking and partying. This misplaced passion is a microcosm of the ills of our present-day society. Today, in America, there is a prevailing ideology of instant gratification at any cost. Often, this price includes our character and morality. Even within particular churches, the focus is on getting rather than giving. These jaded perspectives run counter to what the gospel teaches.

Like Patrick, the favored servant who touched many lives in Ireland, let us look to serve God rather than ourselves. Let all that we are represent the risen Lord. The call to be God's ambassador is reserved for every believer. Second Corinthians 5:20 says, "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God."
Patrick was by no means a perfect man. Like each of us, he was born with sin but humbly trusted God.

May we always remember to honor the Lord and our purpose in representing Christ in the world.

The Battle of Midway in 1942 is regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in American military history and a significant turning point in World War II. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, U.S. Navy forces used decoded Japanese communications to destroy four Japanese aircraft carriers, shifting the momentum of the war in the Pacific.
The Battle of Midway was significant, but the greatest comeback in any war belongs to Jesus. Through His resurrection, Christ conquered death, and anyone who puts their faith in Him alone can experience the power of resurrection. This power is clearly illustrated by the story of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead.

After Lazarus died, his sisters were heartbroken and told Jesus, as he arrived, that if he had been there sooner, he could have prevented it. John 11:25-26 captures Jesus' response: "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?" 27 "Yes, Lord," she told him. "I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God."

As great as the power of the resurrection is, and as well-documented an event as it is in the annals of history, you still have to answer the same question Jesus asked Martha: "Do you believe this?"

Remember, resurrection power means you will be raised to eternal life after you die on earth, so you will have your own comeback story to praise God for in eternity.

During his discussion on the resurrection, the Apostle Paul concluded his teaching by saying in First Corinthians 15:54-57: "Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?’ 56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.”

Charles Cowman and his wife were missionaries to Asia. When he became fatally ill, they returned to their homeland, where he had an epiphany. And Mrs. Cowman discovered that what one does not expect to find is the strength to carry on in the illness, drawn from random inspirational thoughts—one of which fluttered across their path as they walked on the beach.

This unexpected source of encouragement became the foundation for Streams in the Desert, a classic devotional book that has inspired hope and comfort worldwide for over 50 years.

Transitioning from that personal story, the fourth “I Am Statement of Jesus” reminds us that we, too, can trust God in those tough seasons of life because Jesus is our Good Shepherd who guides us.

In John 10:10-11, Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

God’s primary provisions through His Son are the abundance of His mercy, grace, strength, and timely tangible blessings, much like the Cowmans experienced in their hour of testing. Also, God provides the greatest provision of all: eternal life in Christ.

The assurance of God's care is not new. The Old Testament foreshadows this profound statement by Christ when it says in Psalm 23:1-4, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3  He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Whether our need is medical, financial, relational, emotional, or spiritual, we can wait with hope on the Good Shepherd to provide, trusting that His care will never fail us.

Success rises and falls on time management. Your ability to wisely handle the twenty-four hours you get each day determines your direction and durability. So often, we blame burnout or burdens for not seeing breakthroughs, but there's more to the story if we are willing to be transparent. See, if we adopt the time management principle that says, Pay
Now, Play Later, we will increase our productivity, fulfill our purpose, and experience the pleasures that God approves.

Think of it this way: Pay now involves health; for example, getting proper sleep, eating healthy, exercising, and avoiding harmful substances. Doing so leads to a healthier version of yourself and will ultimately make you more effective in the office, classroom, field, job site, or home. Pay now means you put in the work, such as being responsible with your job, school assignments, training, and personal tasks. Our credibility goes through the roof when we do this, and we sharpen our skills in the process. More importantly, paying now means you give God the first fruits of your time, talents, and treasures. When we take these accountability steps, we can enjoy life better and humbly await God's blessing. Thus, "play later" means doing things like sports, entertainment, recreation, vacations, hobbies, or activities after fulfilling your obligations.

Scripture provides excellent counsel for time management. For example:

Psalm 90:12 says, "Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should."

Ephesians 5:15-17 says, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

Colossians 4:5 states, "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time."

With these verses in mind, a tangible next step is to dedicate your day to the Lord each morning. Ask Him to help you be efficient and proficient in all you do. Next, carefully comb through your current schedule. Check to see what needs to be eliminated. Is there anything in the "play category" that is superseding God's plans and your duties?

Remember, you can significantly reduce stress by putting this perspective into practice.

According to Mayo Clinic Health System experts, “people often focus on problems due to a natural tendency to ruminate on negative aspects of life, a 'scarcity mindset' that craves more, and a failure to recognize everyday blessings. Training the brain to focus on positive, small, daily moments can rewire this response, building resilience, reducing stress, and improving overall health.” (Mindfulness training, cognitive performance and stress reduction, 2023, pp. 1-15)

Perhaps you can relate. No matter the size or timing of our problems, we tend to focus far more on them than on our blessings. As a result, our entire perspective, even on matters unrelated to the original issue, is adversely affected. (Tough et al., 2025)

To circumvent this clear and present struggle, flip the script and count your blessings instead of your problems. Make a list of the provisions, people, and paths that God blessed you with both in the past and the present. Taking inventory like this is a cognitively healthy step, and it aligns with Scripture. Now you don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving season or tragedy. Start today—set aside a few minutes, write out your blessings, and make this a daily habit to shift your mindset and enhance your wellbeing.

Psalm 103:1-5 tells us, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, 3 who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, 4 who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, 5 who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.”

As I count my blessings this morning, I am especially thankful for our son Benjamin, who turns 12 today! We are thankful for Ben’s life and the young man he is, and we look forward to the plans God has for him!

Like most parents, grandparents, and family members, I wish I could freeze time because it feels like the boys are growing up so quickly. However, we remain hopeful in God’s goodness and are grateful for our blessings.

One of the best illustrations warning against the dangers of being judgmental is found in Matthew 7:1-5. In this passage, Jesus advises His listeners to first address the beam of wood in their own eye before looking for the speck of sawdust in someone else's eye. The key message is to avoid judging others unfairly, particularly when we have our own issues to bring before the Lord. Our sinful nature often inclines us toward judgment.
Whether it's an attempt to cover up a hidden sin, a result of immaturity or ignorance, or maybe just having a bad day and taking it out on others, being unjustly critical is counterproductive to our testimony in Christ.

Some examples that may indicate you are being unjustly critical include frequently questioning people's salvation, fixating on what others possess, being constantly caught up in people's drama, and involving others in your judgments of the person you are criticizing.
To immediately stop being judgmental, consider Jesus' words from the Message translation of John 7:24, which says, "Don't be hypercritical; use your head—and heart!—to discern what is right, to test what is authentically right."

Jesus spoke this verse while teaching in the Temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. Ironically, the Jewish leaders were judging him based on what they perceived as a lack of formal training and his alleged violation of the Sabbath on a previous day, as described in John 5.

Jesus makes a valid comparison: if they can perform circumcisions on the Sabbath, they should not criticize him for healing a man completely on that day. In this way, Jesus defends his earlier healing on the Sabbath, demonstrating that the leaders were hypercritical to condemn him based on superficial, legalistic interpretations of the law rather than on its true, intended purposes from God.
Based on John 7:24, you can address a critical spirit by practicing discernment. As you align yourself with God in your personal life, focus on your growth, and enhance your accountability to the Lord, your discernment will naturally improve. This development will enable you to recognize what is right. In situations that require your attention, you will learn to find the appropriate tone, approach, and timing in accordance with the Lord's guidance.

The Amish are often misunderstood as being "anti-technology." In reality, they engage in a practice of communal discernment. When a new technology, such as a hay baler or a telephone, is introduced, the community does not simply ask, "Does it work?" Instead, they consider the more profound question, "Will this bring us together or pull us apart?" They have decided to reject certain technologies when they recognized that the supposed "efficiency" would jeopardize the community's relational fabric.

As it pertains to our relationship with God, discernment works similarly. Discernment involves asking a deeper question: How will this choice impact my relationship with God and others? To be on the right side of that question, we need to go to God and His Word for discernment.

Think of it this way: Alongside asking God for wisdom, praying for discernment is a highly effective petition. Psalm 119:66, "Teach me good judgment and discernment, for I rely on your commands."

Good judgment and discernment are indispensable tools in your life. There are two main reasons why discernment is important: 1) We are constantly faced with numerous decisions, and a lack of discernment can lead to costly mistakes. One wrong choice, a misstep, or trusting a disingenuous person can set you back months, if not years. 2)There is an overwhelming amount of fake news, misleading narratives, and questionable ideologies in circulation. Given these realities, having discernment is essential. Even your political party or affiliation should be vetted against the discernment of God's counsel.
While teaching the people about the promise of His guiding and protection of them, Jesus used the metaphor of a shepherd and his sheep:

John 10:1-6, “ 'Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.' 6 This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them."

In the first part of John 10, Jesus emphasizes the importance of discernment in choosing the right shepherd to follow. Similarly, we need to develop a discernment that aligns with God's will, not only in spiritual matters but also in our relationships, emotions, and finances. Going to God for discernment will yield the blessing of a sound mind and help you make decisions with God's peace.

Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night to adjust the temperature, use the bathroom, or get a drink of water? Without even turning on the lights, you made your way to your destination in the dark thanks to your familiarity with your home. However, more than once while navigating through the darkness, you’ve tripped and fallen over something left in your path. Whether it was a pair of sneakers or a moved box, you ended up stumbling over an obstacle you couldn't see.

This situation resembles how we handle challenges in our surroundings. Many hazards can easily trip us up if we're not careful, especially when we live in the darkness of this world. After declaring Himself as the Light of the world, Jesus emphasized this perilous reality while speaking to the religious leaders and those uncertain about their commitment to following Him.

John 8:13-18 says, “So the Pharisees said to him, ‘You are testifying about yourself. Your testimony is not valid.’ 14 ‘Even if I testify about myself,’ Jesus replied, ‘my testimony is true, because I know where I came from and where I’m going. But you don’t know where I come from or where I’m going. 15 You judge by human standards. I judge no one. 16 And if I do judge, my judgment is true, because it is not I alone who judges, but I and the Father who sent me. 17 Even in your law, it is written that the testimony of two witnesses is true. 18 I am the one who testifies about myself, and the Father who sent me testifies about me.’ ”

In essence, Jesus is saying, you don't know I am the light because you're not walking in the light. John also gave the contrast between walking in the light or darkness in these verses:

First John 1:5-10, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in him. 6 If we say, we have fellowship with him, and yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the truth. 7 If we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say, we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say, we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”

Learning from the poor example of the Pharisees, let us strive to walk in the light so that we can understand the Father'swill. When we walk in the light, truth is revealed, falsehoods are exposed, and fellowship with God is made possible.

Like you, I understand that juggling multiple responsibilities and tasks can be challenging throughout the week, whether they are work, home, or school-related. Typically, prioritization helps promote confidence and successful task execution. By making a list of what needs to be done in order of importance, you are creating a game plan, which is already half the battle. Often, our failure to complete tasks isn’t because we lack the ability, but rather because we haven't organized them with a visual list. A little secret I have learned is to knock off an easy task first. Even what may seem insignificant needs to be on the list, and finishing it encourages you to do more.
The same perspective applies to your spiritual life. Instead of thinking in grand terms like "I need to read the entire Bible by a certain date" or "I need to volunteer this many hours during the month,” take small bites and center this strategy around prayer. Yes, prioritize everything you do in life around the simple yet profound action of prayer!   This action of prayer is precisely what Jesus did, as recorded in Mark 1:35: "Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray."
First, notice that Jesus began His day with prayer. The importance of praying early cannot be overstated. Many of our worries and woes can be alleviated by turning to our heavenly Father first thing in the morning. God is aware of the difficulties you may face at work or school later in the day. He knows about your frustrations with traffic and those people who require extra grace. He understands the temptations and troubles you may encounter. I would go so far as to say that the most reasonable response to waking up each day is to begin with prayer. To me, not praying early is like going into a battle with a plastic fork while the enemy has a tank!
Secondly, Jesus got alone with God. Regardless of your living situation, make time to be alone with God. Pray and focus on a Scripture. Talk to God about your concerns and the day ahead. Also, be sure to thank God for the blessings He has entrusted to you.
Finally, in your prayer time, make a list of all you have to do and ask God's blessing on it. Revisit your priority list daily and trust God for strength and success.

Although significant snowfall can create challenges for removal and travel, the beauty of a blizzard is undeniable. The pristine white landscape offers a stunning display that is both picturesque and peaceful. Perhaps this is why God frequently uses the imagery of snow in Scripture. It demonstrates His power over the weather, underscores an important aspect of His purpose regarding His Word, portrays His presence, and illustrates one of His most significant promises. This imagery serves as a reminder of His ability to control the elements and of His grace in revealing more of Himself to us.

Therefore, consider these four aspects of snow in the Bible and how they relate to your relationship with God:

First, Power: In Job 37:6, we learn of God's sovereignty concerning the snow, "For he says to the snow, 'Fall to the earth...”

Secondly, Purpose: Isaiah 55:10-11 shows a connection between snow and how God's Word is used in our lives: “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. 11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it."

Thirdly, Presence: In John's report of Jesus' appearance in the final book of the Bible, he describes His hair as being white as snow! Revelation 1:14 says, "His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow. And his eyes were like flames of fire."

Finally, Promise: After David's untimely fall from grace and being confronted by his friend, Nathaniel, over his sin, David confesses his iniquity and prays, "Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:7).
S
now serves as a beautiful reminder of God's power, purpose, presence, and promise. Knowing this, give thanks to the Lord for this tangible reminder, and perhaps request some extra strength to help with shoveling!

While the specifics of religion may differ across cultures and regions, a fundamental understanding of it involves what individuals consider divine, holy, true, sacred, and deserving of reverence. From a practical perspective, religion can be a driving and guiding force in a person's life. Although there are many commendable acts of benevolence and positive spiritual concepts within religions, religion itself cannot save anyone. See, according to the Holy Scriptures of Christianity, God requires belief in the sufficiency of His Son, Jesus Christ.
For this reason, Jesus made seven distinctive statements about His deity. In the context of those statements, He explained the sufficiency of His provision, received only through belief in Him.

All seven statements are found exclusively in John's Gospel. Here is the context of the first one:  John 6:27-37 / ESV,  “Jesus said, ‘Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.’ 28 Then they said to him, ‘What must we do, to be doing the works of God?’ 29 Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.’ 30 So they said to him, ‘Then what sign do you do, that we may see and believe you? What work do you perform? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ 32 Jesus then said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’ 34 They said to him, ‘Sir, give us this bread always.’ 35 Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. 36 But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. 37 All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.’ ”
J
esus told the people, especially the religious leaders and their followers, that to experience the fulfillment that only He can bring, they must believe in who God says He is.

At its core, the purpose of John's Gospel is belief, which is also why God has ensured that the Scriptures have been preserved. The Bible should not be viewed as a rulebook, a relic, or a collection of cultish religious teachings. Instead, see God's Word as heaven's primary way of allowing human beings to believe and grow in Christ.

When we believe, more of God's provisions will follow, including salvation and daily strength from the Lord. Knowing this, trust the Lord and believe in who He is and what the Father has given Him to do.

Peace can sometimes be hard to find. Troubles can steal your peace, trials can deplete it, and temptations can block it. Whether you are experiencing difficult circumstances or enjoying a smooth season in life, remember that your starting point for peace is purposefully positioning your thoughts around trusting God.

Isaiah 26:3 declares, "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!"

See, your thoughts influence your behavior and beliefs. For example, your thoughts can amplify your anxiety if you constantly focus on the negativity of a situation. Likewise, you can multiply your stress by catastrophizing, imagining worst-case scenarios. As a result, you may isolate yourself and become insecure, frustrated, fatigued, or fearful.
However, when you "trust God" and "fix your thoughts on Him," the Lord promises perfect peace! Think of it this way: Spending more time reading the Scripture and talking to God will bring calmness and discernment to your mind, two necessary tools when navigating adversity or making daily choices. The principle is that the more attention I give to my walk with God, the stronger I will get between my ears, and this amazing promise of perfect peace will kick in at the right time.

Earlier in his (Isaiah) prophetic writings to Israel and Judah, the prophet said, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace 7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end…" (Isaiah 9:6-7a).
Jesus Himself promised: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27). And John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Maybe your problems are pounding you today, or perhaps you're in a good place. Either way, remember that the Lord is your starting point for peace. Your responsibility is to trust Him and focus on His promises!

Sometimes, life can feel overwhelming, and anguish can get the best of us. When these sentiments set in, there seems to be no way out. Fear takes over our minds, and we feel mentally drained. However, you have options that will ultimately help you overcome these obstacles.

Scripture provides numerous jewels of encouragement. One portion that brings a sense of calm and confidence is God's calling on Joshua to lead the people of Israel. Talk about a daunting task—Joshua had some pretty big sandals to fill now that Moses had died! So often, new responsibilities seem impossible, and negative thoughts follow. The same is true when you go through a trial or contend with difficult people. Even in the past few years, dealing with the pandemic has produced negative emotions.

Thus, listen to God's counsel to Joshua: "Be strong and courageous because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then, you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:6-9

Think of the encouragement that comes from Scripture as oxygen for the soul. See, we need to be uplifted when weighed down with burdens, and God did just that with Joshua. In verse 6, the encouragement is tied to God's promise concerning the land. We can find legitimate inspiration by focusing on God's promises. Secondly, verse 7 underscores God's power through His Word. We need God's empowerment to overcome those discouraging days and advance past adversity. Finally, verses 8 and 9 represent God's presence.

When the walls of life feel like they are closing in on you and you feel alone, remember you have God. People and circumstances will fail you, but God never will! Therefore, be strong and courageous!