Enjoy this week’s devotional!
Text for the Week: Ps. 118, Is. 50:4-9, Mat. 21:1-11
CENTURING YOURSELF
El Shaddai,
Today, we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem as he rode on a donkey to the shouts of “Hosanna!” We recall Isaiah’s prophetic words about the suffering servant willing to endure hardship for the sake of others. We thank your steadfast love and faithfulness, knowing that Jesus, the stone rejected by the builders, has become the cornerstone. As we begin this time of worship, may our hearts be filled with gratitude for your unfailing love and mercy. Help us to be open to your Word and the leading of your Holy Spirit so that your grace may transform us. Amen.
SACRED READING
- This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
- Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like a stone, determined to do his will. And I know that I will not be put to shame. Isa. 50:7
- The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ‘Hosanna in the highest heaven! Mat 21:9
READINGD FROM PAST & PRESENT TEACHERS
- Every day is a new opportunity. You can build on yesterday’s success or put its failures behind you and start over again. That’s the way life is, with a new game every day. – Bob Feller (20th-century American baseball player)
- I know where I’m going, and I know the truth, and I don’t have to be what you want me to be. I’m free to be what I want. – Muhammad Ali (20th-century American boxer and activist)
- Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us and that true homage comes from the heart and lips and shows itself in deeds. – Theodore Roosevelt (19th-20th century American president)
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
- How can I deeply trust God’s goodness and sovereignty and live each day with purpose and joy?
- Am I willing to face opposition and endure suffering to follow my convictions and fulfill my calling?
- How can I cultivate a heart of true worship and devotion to God and honor him with my words and actions?
- How can I use my talents and resources to positively impact the world and contribute to the greater good?
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Loving God, I confess that I have not always followed the ways of Jesus. I have been quick to judge, slow to forgive, and hesitant to serve others. I have failed to love my neighbors as you taught us and neglected to seek justice and peace. Forgive me, help me turn from selfish ways, and follow in the example Jesus modeled for me. Amen.
ASSURANCE OF FOREGIVENESS
In Jesus Christ, I am forgiven. God’s grace is greater than sin, and his mercy is more profound than my brokenness. I receive God’s forgiveness and am renewed in my commitment to follow Jesus. Amen
PRAYING FOR OTHERS
Gracious God,
I come before you with thanksgiving and praise and seek your comfort and consolation. I remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the crowds waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna!” I also remember that this triumphal procession would soon give way to Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion.
I also recall the prophetic words of Zechariah, who spoke of a king who would come to Jerusalem “humble and riding on a donkey.” This was a king who would bring peace to the nations and would reign with justice and righteousness. I long for that same peace and justice in today’s world, where so many suffer from violence, poverty, and injustice.
In this Holy season, I pray for those who are sick, grieving, or struggling in any way. I ask for your healing touch to be upon them and for your comforting presence to surround them.
I give thanks for your unwavering love and faithfulness, which sustain me and all creation in all circumstances. Help me remember that even in the darkest moments, you are with me, guiding and giving me hope. Amen
BLESSINGS
I go forth now as an ambassador of Christ, carrying the hope and peace of the Palm Sunday procession. Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, not a warhorse, embodying humility and peace. In the same way, I am called to be a peacemaker in a world filled with strife and conflict.
I Carry with me the prophetic words of Isaiah, who spoke of a servant who would suffer for the sake of others, and remember that Jesus, too, suffered and died for us so that I can have new life. This is a reminder of the power of sacrificial love and selflessness.
And now may the blessing of Yahweh, the Creator, Jesus, the liberator, and the Holy Spirit, the reconciler, be upon us and remain with all a wi at all times. Amen.