Breakfast at MacDonalds

A Return is Requested....You'll see why.

Breakfast at McDonald's

This is a good story and is true, please read it all the way through until the end! (After the Story, there are some very interesting facts!):



I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, 3) and have recently completed my college degree.



The last class I had to take was Sociology.


The teacher was absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every human being had been graced with.



Her last project of the term was called, 'Smile.'



The class was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their reactions.


I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello anyway. So, I thought this would be a piece of cake,



Literally.

Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning.



It was just our way of sharing special playtime with our son.


We were standing in line, waiting to be served, when all of a sudden everyone around us began to back away, and then
Even my husband did.



I did not move an inch... An overwhelming feeling of panic welled up inside of me as I turned to see why they had moved.

As I turned around I smelled a horrible 'dirty body' smell, and there standing behind me were two poor homeless men.

As I looked down at the short gentleman, close to me, he was 'smiling'



His beautiful sky blue eyes were full of God's Light as he searched f or acceptance....



He said, 'Good day' as he counted the few coins he had been clutching..

The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. I realized the second man was mentally challenged and the blue-eyed gentleman was his salvation.

I held my tears as I stood there with them.



The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted.



He said, 'Coffee is all Miss' because that was all they could afford. (If they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something. He just wanted to be warm).



Then I really felt it - the compulsion was so great I almost reached out and embraced the little man with the blue eyes..


That is when I noticed all eyes in the

Restaurant were set on me, judging

My every action.



I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give me two more breakfast meals on a separate tray.






I then walked around the corner to the table that the men had chosen as a resting spot. I put the tray on the table and laid my hand on the blue-eyed gentleman's cold hand.



He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, 'Thank you.'



I leaned over, began to pat his hand and said, 'I did not do this for you.. God is here working through me to give you hope.'



I started to cry as I walked away to join my husband and son.... When I sat down my husband smiled at me and said, 'That is why God gave you to me, Honey, to give me hope..'



We held hands for a moment and at that time, we knew that only because of the Grace that we had been given were we able to give.




That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love.



I returned to college, on the last evening of class, with this story in hand.



I turned in 'my project' and the instructor read it.


Then she looked up at me and said, 'Can I share this?'



I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class.



She began to read and that is when I knew that we as human beings and being part of God share this need to heal people and to be healed.



In my own way I had touched the people at McDonald's, my son, the instructor, and every soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a college student.


I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn:


UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE.



Much love and compassion is sent to each and every person who may read this and learn how to



LOVE PEOPLE AND USE THINGS -


NOT LOVE THINGS AND USE PEOPLE.


There is an Angel sent to watch over you.


In order for her to work, you must pass this on to the people you want watched over.


An Angel wrote:

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart


To handle yourself, use your head..


To handle others, use your heart.

God Gives every bird it's food, but He does not throw it into its nest.


Send it back, you'll see why!


A box of gold
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

With a secret inside

that has never been told

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

This box is priceless

but as I see

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The treasure inside is

precious to me

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Today I share this

treasure with thee
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It's the treasure of

friendship you've

given me.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

If this comes back to you

then you'll have a friend

for life but, if this

becomes deleted, you are

not a friend.



Send this to everyone you

consider a friend!


It will grant you one wish and only one wish,

that is, if you decide to send this to others. You can wish for anything.


Repeat your wish until you have stopped scrolling. Make it count!




FOR YOUR WISH TO COME TRUE YOU HAVE TO SEND IT TO:

3 PEOPLE - YOUR WISH WILL COME TRUE EVENTUALLY


5 PEOPLE - YOUR WISH WILL COME TRUE IN 3 MONTHS


10 PEOPLE - YOUR WISH WILL COME TRUE IN 5 WEEKS


15 PEOPLE - YOUR WISH WILL COME TRUE IN 1 WEEK

CAN'T WAIT A WEEK???

22 People-Your Wish Will

Come True In 1 Day!

****** **********REMEMBER**************

THIS MUST BE SENT OUT THE

DAY YOU READ IT FOR

YOU TO GET YOUR WISH

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 21, 2012)

Christ's New Body

Acts 1:1-15

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 20, 2012)

Beyond Belief


John 21:20-24

"Jesus answered, 'If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.'"
(JOHN 21:22)
THE NEW LIFE OF CHUCK COLSON

INSIGHT
JESUS CALLS US AS HE DID PETER: COME TO THE END OF YOURSELF AND REALIZE YOUR HEART'S LONGING CAN ONLY BE SATISFIED IN HIM.
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Judges 3-4
Psalm 110
Romans 13-14

John 21:20-24



He was a bag man for the President of the United States and for his acts, he served time in a federal prison. But just before going behind bars, this man's life changed as he met Jesus.

Peter's life radically changed after encountering Jesus on the beach. Christ told him to stay focused, to follow Him. That would be costly, as it had been costly for Jesus. In fact, Peter's life would be an ongoing sacrifice for the Kingdom.

Three decades later, Peter was martyred in Rome. Loving Jesus meant offering his whole life for a Truth far greater than himself, one so great that a whole world of books could not contain the details of it all (John 21:24-25). Living a sacrificial life for Peter meant basing every sermon on the resurrection. He ministered to the poor and homeless, led his community, sent missionaries far and wide, and proclaimed the Good News of forgiveness to a hurting world.

While your life may not end in a martyr's death, know that the Lord can bring you back from shame and redirect you for an entirely new work. Take courage from Peter's change in Christ's presence. You too are forgiven, restored, loved. May our passion be secured in the passion - and resurrection - of Christ, as Peter's was.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 19, 2012)

Stubborn Love

John 21:15-19

INSIGHT
PETER'S IMPORTANT LIFE OF MINISTRY IN THE CHURCH WOULD BE A SYMBOL THAT GOD WILL INDEED USE US, NO MATTER WHAT OUR REGRETS!
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Judges 1-2
Psalm 109
Romans 11-12

John 21:15-19

New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)

Jesus Reinstates Peter

15

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

16

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

17

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. ¹⁸ I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” ¹⁹ Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”
SHOULD WE FORGET THE CHURCH?

In our individualistic culture many are curious about Jesus but few value the church. Can Jesus and His Body be separated?

Though he and his friends had already seen the resurrected Lord, Peter must have humbly hoped for a chance to make right his denial of Christ in the garden. Yet in the meantime, he went back to fishing, perhaps waiting for the commissioning Jesus had spoken of, or to earn money and provide for his family. Whatever the reason, Jesus met him where he was, drew near, and then asked the penetrating question: Do you love me?

Despite Peter's betrayal of Jesus, failures, impulsive acts and bold challenges, Jesus loved him so much that He cooked him breakfast and asked him hard questions. Then, amazingly the Lord offered Peter a second chance. Three times the fisherman had denied knowing Jesus; three times Jesus gave him an opportunity to respond and draw near.

"Care for my sheep," the Lord urged. Christ the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep now re-directed one of His more stubborn creatures, imparting grace and love. Your Shepherd comes to you also, overflowing with grace to restore you.

"Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, 'Do you love me?' He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
(JOHN 21:17)

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 18, 2012)

Stubborn Love

John 21:15-19

"Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, 'Do you love me?' He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
(JOHN 21:17)

INSIGHT
PETER'S IMPORTANT LIFE OF MINISTRY IN THE CHURCH WOULD BE A SYMBOL THAT GOD WILL INDEED USE US, NO MATTER WHAT OUR REGRETS!
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Judges 1-2
Psalm 109
Romans 11-12

John 21:15-19

New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)

Jesus Reinstates Peter

15

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

16

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

17

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. ¹⁸ I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” ¹⁹ Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

SHOULD WE FORGET THE CHURCH?

Though he and his friends had already seen the resurrected Lord, Peter must have humbly hoped for a chance to make right his denial of Christ in the garden. Yet in the meantime, he went back to fishing, perhaps waiting for the commissioning Jesus had spoken of, or to earn money and provide for his family. Whatever the reason, Jesus met him where he was, drew near, and then asked the penetrating question: Do you love me?

Despite Peter's betrayal of Jesus, failures, impulsive acts and bold challenges, Jesus loved him so much that He cooked him breakfast and asked him hard questions. Then, amazingly the Lord offered Peter a second chance. Three times the fisherman had denied knowing Jesus; three times Jesus gave him an opportunity to respond and draw near.

"Care for my sheep," the Lord urged. Christ the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep now re-directed one of His more stubborn creatures, imparting grace and love. Your Shepherd comes to you also, overflowing with grace to restore you.

In our individualistic culture many are curious about Jesus but few value the church. Can Jesus and His Body be separated?

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 19, 2012)

Beach Fry
John 21:1-14


"Jesus said to them, 'Come and have breakfast.' None of the disciples dared ask him, 'Who are you?' They knew it was the Lord." (JOHN 21:12)When Jesus first called Peter to follow Him (Luke 5:1-11), he'd been working as a tradesman, fishing with buddies all night, though they'd not caught a thing. Jesus called them to cast their nets on the other side of the boat, and Peter at first challenged Him. In both Luke and John's account of this story, they'd pulled in the catch of the year. Peter left what would have made him wealthy to follow the Man who gave him a rich sense of purpose. "'From now on you will catch men,'" Christ told him. So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed Him. Something about Jesus drew Peter to willingly leave all he had ever known. Now the Man he'd travelled with for three years, listened to and watched die on a cross was offering him breakfast on the beach! No matter how much Peter thought he knew, Christ's surprising grace and ongoing gifts were greater than he could ever imagine. Is there some "Peter" in you, too? May today find you surprised by the Lord's grace in your life.INSIGHTPETER HAD ONCE DENIED HE KNEW JESUS BUT NOW WAS RECEIVING BREAKFAST FROM HIM. CHRIST'S LOVE RESTORES US EVEN WHEN WE DON'T DESERVE IT!READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 23-24 Psalm 108 Romans 9-10
John 21:1-14
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish
1 Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias.[a] It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”
“No,” they answered.
6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.[b] 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.”
11 Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
Footnotes:
a. John 21:1 That is, Sea of Galilee
b. John 21:8 Greek about two hundred cubits (about 90 meters)



LIFE AFTER 60What really matters in life? After sixty years of life and many years in ministry, Charles shares his heart. All glory to Jesus as we decrease and He becomes our all.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 18, 2012)

Absolute Proclamation

John 20:24-31

"Thomas said to him, 'My Lord and my God!'" (JOHN 20:28)When Jesus was murdered, Thomas was crushed. He'd come to believe the Rabbi would deliver their people; how could He usher in a new kingdom now that He was dead? To add salt to the wound, Thomas's friends were reporting that they'd seen Jesus alive again. The pain of believing once and ending up betrayed had been hard enough. Maybe he convinced himself that he would not be made a fool twice. Disappointment had surely mixed with despair for Thomas, a combination that led to doubt. Many of you know how that feels. So when Christ invited Thomas to touch His scars, a touch that reminded Thomas and those watching of His death on the cross for their sakes, he responded not with doubt but with absolute recognition for who Jesus was: "My Lord and My God!" It was true! Jesus was undaunted by Thomas's 'demand' for proof. Consequently, Thomas's personal declaration - "My Lord and My God" - would move hundreds of thousands of believers long after he poked his finger in Christ's flesh. Has it moved you, too?INSIGHTCHRIST'S FINAL WORDS TO THOMAS, "BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HAVE NOT SEEN AND YET BELIEVE," ECHO LOUDLY TO US NOW MORE THAN EVER.READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 21-22 Psalm 107 Romans 7-8
John 20:24-31
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Jesus Appears to Thomas
24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.”
26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”
29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
30 Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may[a] believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
Footnotes:
a. John 20:31 Some manuscripts may continue to

DON'T WASTE YOUR LIFE PUFFING YOURSELF [PART 2]with John PiperIt's true in business, in sports, and especially in the church - we want people to think we are better than we really are. The world calls it self-esteem, but the Bible calls it pride.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 17, 2012)

Courageous Thomas

John 20:24-31

"Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.'" (JOHN 20:27)We're given sparse details in Scripture about Thomas before Christ's death. A zealous, passionate man, Thomas was one of Christ's twelve chosen followers, a part of the Lord's inner circle. He probably was a fisherman since he joined Peter and the others (John 21) for a night of fishing. He traveled with Christ and His disciples for three years. Thomas was a loyal follower of Jesus, willing to step out and lead even if it meant danger as John 11:16 reveals: "Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with him.'" It was an extraordinary statement, hardly the stuff of a skeptic, or one known more for doubting his friends than for the courage he displayed throughout his life! Something about Jesus moved Thomas to love so much that he was willing to join Him in His death, should it come to that. Even so, Thomas would only believe if he saw with his own eyes and touched the Lord's side himself. Be encouraged when faith fades; the Lord graciously obliged!INSIGHTTHROUGH THE FITS AND STARTS OF OUR LOYALTY TO JESUS CHRIST, HE BECKONS US TO COME AND KNOW HIM AGAIN.READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 19-20 Psalm 106 Romans 5-6
John 20:24-31
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Jesus Appears to Thomas
24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.”
26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”
29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
30 Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may[a] believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
Footnotes:
a. John 20:31 Some manuscripts may continue to

DON'T WASTE YOUR LIFE ON YOURSELFwith John PiperChange is in the air. After so much turmoil these past few years it's not just college graduates wondering what to do with the rest of their lives.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 16, 2012)

Sensory Appeal

John 20:19-23

"After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord." (JOHN 20:20)Jesus - the Word Made Flesh - appealed to the human senses of His friends that night in the upper room. He didn't try to explain the physical dynamics of cosmic power over human beings when He appeared. Nor did He provide scientific evidence to validate His appearance as both God and Man when both seemed to have died three days before. Instead, He invited them not to spiritualize the moment but draw near to Him and to be human. He asked them to touch, listen, look and see. As they did, they realized: this was no phantom. It was true: Christ was alive! By pointing to His wounds, He reminded them of His death. He recalled for them what they would need to know from here on out, what would be the center of their purpose every day on earth: that He had indeed been crucified for their sake, and here were the marks to prove it. His physical execution guarantees for all of us our eternal relationship with a loving God who transcended every reality ever known. His resurrected life re-defines our lives!INSIGHTIN WHAT WAYS DOES CHRIST'S RESURRECTION SHAPE YOUR VISION AND MISSION TODAY WITH OTHER BELIEVERS IN YOUR LIFE?READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 17-18 Psalm 105 Romans 3-

John 20:19-23
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

BEN HUR - THE MOVIE THAT LED TO THE CHRISTwith Fraser HestonHe was a first century Jewish prince. His name was Judah Ben-Hur and his life was changed when he met Jesus of Nazareth.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 15, 2012),

A Dinner Ghost

Luke 24:36-45

"And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them 'Do you have anything here to eat?'" (LUKE 24:41)Several from Christ's inner circle huddled together for dinner in a small upstairs apartment, away from public places. They had been His closest friends, still together, despite the shared tragedy they'd just encountered. But they'd locked the doors, hiding from fear of persecution for having followed the now-murdered Jesus of Nazareth, guilty by association. Clearly locking the doors meant they did not want anyone to come in. It was their protection. Imagine the discussion as they sat there: the bizarre accounts of the women first, and now Cleopas and his friend, that Jesus was somehow alive. They were so absorbed in the chatter that no one noticed when He suddenly stood among them. As flesh and blood, in a room bolted shut, and to prove the point of His real-ness, He asked for something to eat. Both His presence and His request meant the reports were true: the God-Man was alive! His resurrected visit changed everything for this group of friends. In fact, the whole world would never be the same.INSIGHTTHE LIVING JESUS PENETRATES OUR FEARS BY DRAWING NEAR TO US. WE NEED NOT DESPAIR!READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 15-16 Psalm 104 Romans 1-2
Luke 24:36-45
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.

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ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 14, 2012)

Broken Bread

Luke 24:13-35

Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread." (LUKE 24:35)Though they knew their long-awaited Messiah was dead, Cleopas and his friend on the Emmaus Road realized that the Scriptures had been fulfilled after all. And He was standing before them! In the best, most accurate biblical and theological lesson possible, Christ confirmed to them the recurring theme of Scripture: that God was always restoring His people to Himself, no matter the cost, even as it had been necessary "for the Messiah to suffer these things and enter his glory." These two were eager to reconcile the events of the crucifixion with the bizarre account from the women of His reported resurrection, so they listened. When did they recognize Him? When He broke bread and they participated with Him in an act similar to His last supper before His death. This reminder was what they needed to feed on. Death had indeed come to Jesus, but His life was stronger than all the forces of the world combined. What did they do next? They ran seven miles - in the dark - to their friends with the good news!INSIGHTCHRIST'S BROKEN BODY REMINDS US OF HOW MUCH GOD LOVES US, HIS RESURRECTION CONFIRMING HOPE FOR US IN EVEN THE MOST DISCOURAGING TIMES.READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 13-14 Psalm 103 Acts 28Luke 24:13-35
Luke 24:13-35
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
On the Road to Emmaus
13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles[a] from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him. 17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
19 “What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.”
25 He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ[b] have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
Footnotes:
a. Luke 24:13 Greek sixty stadia (about 11 kilometers)
b. Luke 24:26 Or Messiah; also in verse 46

RESURRECTION MEANING [PART 3]Does our universe have a purpose? What does the future hold? These questions are answered in the transforming life Jesus offers

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 13, 2012)

Teachable Moment

Luke 24:13-35

"And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." (LUKE 24:27)At first glance, the story of the Emmaus Road might seem like just a few folks out for a walk, trying to make sense of an immensely disappointing experience. When they tried to describe Christ's execution to the 'stranger' they bumped into, He redirected the conversation, asking them questions and giving them the lecture of a lifetime. Why is the Emmaus Road story endearing on so many levels? Why does a rather uneventful tale of a seven-mile walk continue to draw us in, offering rich material for sermons and lessons? Perhaps because in it, the resurrected Jesus made only His second appearance from the dead to two people we've barely heard of. They were ordinary folks, not leaders of the church. He reminds them that God's work throughout Scripture had always signaled this moment: when the Son of Man would come to earth, offer Himself for our sake, and establish His new body, His church, in us! Cleopas and his friend had been despairing of their future. Christ responded by returning to the truth of Scripture.INSIGHTHOW DOES JESUS' INTENTIONAL CONVERSATION ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS ENCOURAGE YOU TODAY?READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 11-12 Psalm 102 Acts 27
Luke 24:13-35
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
On the Road to Emmaus
13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles[a] from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him. 17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
19 “What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.”
25 He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ[b] have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.
30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”
33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
Footnotes:
a. Luke 24:13 Greek sixty stadia (about 11 kilometers)
b. Luke 24:26 Or Messiah; also in verse 46

POWER AT PENTECOST [PART 2]The Holy Spirit is a person, but we often forget the Spirit's role. Jesus promised His disciples power to preach the Gospel, but this was only possible through the third person of the Trinity.

Death's Garden

Mark 15:42-47

"Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid." (MARK 15:47)I've often wondered why Christ's first appearance happened in a garden-like cemetery and not somewhere else, say a mountaintop or the middle of a busy city or at least a crowded temple. Why didn't He make a spectacular entrance back into the land of the living, somewhere where there'd be a gathering of important people? Wouldn't these have been more effective locations to send the message that the executed young rabbi now was alive again? Yet Jesus didn't choose a busy intersection. He emerged from death in the middle of a quiet, solemn garden near an empty, smelly tomb. The garden forces us to see burial linens in a grave so that we remember just how concrete and real Christ's death was. The garden symbolizes for us, as it has for the church through the ages, a place of growth and grace, inviting us to new life through His death. It is Christ's death that made right what happened in the Garden of Eden. His empty tomb is the only way that's possible at all.INSIGHTBECAUSE OUR SAVIOR LIVES, WE ARE EMPOWERED WITH THE PRIVILEGE AND CALL AS MESSENGERS THROUGHOUT THE EARTH.READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEARJoshua 9-10 Psalm 101 Acts 26
Mark 15:42-47
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
The Burial of Jesus
42 It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath). So as evening approached, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. 44 Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. 45 When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph. 46 So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where he was laid

YOUR EMMAUS ROADTwo disciples walk along the road disappointed, but a third traveler joins them and shares a story that changes everything.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 12, 2012)

Wild Words
Matthew 28: 8-15

"While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened."
(MATTHEW 28:11)
I suspect if the women had not been scared out of their wits, they might have thought better about their new mission. After all, how would the disciples respond to such news from such women? Instead, they just ran. Wildly.
But then Jesus appeared and met them with a simple, "Greetings." There they encountered the walking dead-alive man, touched His feet and worshiped Him. They recognized His authority, heard His voice, experienced His compassion.
Soon the guards headed to the chief priests with the terrible news of an empty grave. A meeting was called, and a scheme concocted about a stolen body. The elders paid the guards to spread the lie, starting a skepticism about Christ's resurrection that continues to this day.
Out of fear and stubbornness, the guards and chief priests responded to the empty tomb with a lie. How will you respond? This will be the most important decision you'll face. May you be filled with and moved by the hope and compassion of our risen Lord.
INSIGHT
DOES THE REALITY OF CHRIST'S EMPTY TOMB FILL YOU WITH JOY? HOW DOES THE NEWS OF HIS "ALIVE-NESS" AFFECT HOW YOU LIVE TODAY?
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Joshua 7-8
Psalm 100
Acts 24-25
Matthew 28: 8-15
Matthew 28:8-15
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."
The Guards’ Report
11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, "You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble." 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.

BEN HUR - THE MOVIE THAT LED TO THE CHRIST
with Fraser Heston
He was a first century Jewish prince. His name was Judah Ben-Hur and his life was changed when he met Jesus of Nazareth.

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 11, 2012)

A Dazzling Moment
Luke 24:1-11

"In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground; but the men said to them, 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!'"
(LUKE 24:5-6)
Before they had time to think, the women at the tomb felt a violent earthquake. The boulder to the entrance moved, revealing nothing inside. The guards froze like dead men. Angels appeared, dazzling and glorious. Men in biblical history would have fallen prostrate at such a visitation; these Jewish women stood there trembling. Luke says they bowed their faces. After all, no one could endure the presence of a supernatural being! When they caught their breath, Mary, Joanna and the others did another remarkable thing: they listened.
"Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again'" (v. 6).
They'd watched their Messiah die. Now the terrified women were being commissioned to go and tell their brothers that someone who was dead is not dead any longer! Amazingly, they went! The message they carried is the same one you and I joyfully take today to those in our hurting, burdened world.
INSIGHT
IN THE MIDST OF MANY FRIGHTENING CHALLENGES, THE WOMEN OBEYED. HOW DOES THEIR WITNESS SPEAK TO YOU NOW?
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Joshua 5-6
Psalm 99
Acts 23

Luke 24:1-11
The Resurrection
1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ " 8 Then they remembered his words.
9 When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.

THE EMPTY TOMB
It was the last thing anyone expected and their first reaction was not joy, but bewilderment. Where was Jesus? The answer is the best news the world has ever received!

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 10, 2012)

More Than 500 Witnesses
1 Corinthians 15:3-22

"...he appeared to Peter and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still liv-ing, though some have fallen asleep."
(1 CORINTHIANS 15:5-6)

The essence of the Christian faith is rooted not merely in what happened when the Lord died, in the beautiful sacrifice He made for the sins of humanity. Certainly, the time Christ spent on earth proclaiming the Good News of His grace has affected people all throughout history. Some see Him as a great role model for love and peace, others a wise teacher unfairly executed. But the heart of the Christian faith has been the literal heart beat of what happened after His death.

It was after His lungs collapsed and heart stopped that something truly unprecedented occurred: the once-dead man became alive again and actually walked those same dusty roads not just once, but for forty days, God in human flesh. He visited with friends in a garden, chatted with them on the road or in their apartments, even cooked breakfast for them on the beach.

Why did Jesus, the God-Man, spend 40 days after His death appearing to over 500 people? To establish His new body! And now He establishes His new kingdom in our hearts.


INSIGHT
PAUL WRITES THAT IF CHRIST WASN'T RAISED FROM THE DEAD, OUR FAITH IS USELESS. HOW CAN CHRIST'S RESURRECTION AFFECT YOUR FAITH TODAY?

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Joshua 3-4
Psalm 98
Acts 22
1 Corinthians 15:3-22
New Living Translation (NLT)
3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter[a] and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers[b] at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him. 9 For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church.
10 But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace. 11 So it makes no difference whether I preach or they preach, for we all preach the same message you have already believed.
The Resurrection of the Dead
12 But tell me this—since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead? 13 For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15 And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead. 16 And if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. 18 In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! 19 And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.
21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Corinthians 15:5 Greek Cephas.
b. 1 Corinthians 15:6 Greek the brothers.

THE WAY OF THE CROSS
Jesus was obedient to the Father's will and chose the way of the cross. For those who would follow Jesus, the way of the cross is still the only choice . . . and it is a joyful journey like no other!

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 09, 2012)

The Broken Precedent
John 19: 31-42

"At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid."
(JOHN 19:41)
What those near Christ's execution didn't realize was that this death was hardly the end of the story. It certainly looked that way by human terms. Everyone knew that when a human heart stopped beating, he was gone. He'd no longer talk, think or love. His soul might live somewhere; his memory would stay with those he left behind. But dead meant life was over.
This young man from Galilee was certainly dead. They'd seen Him murdered. A few friends stood close enough to watch the body dropped from the tree and carried to a grave. The next days' grief and fear must have paralyzed them. A few of them - women to be specific - pulled themselves together enough to go to the lifeless body to prepare it for proper burial.
Yet, that morning they got a hint that the story hadn't ended at all. If anything, it was now - in an unexplainable way - just beginning. Not just as a page to another chapter either, but to an entirely new reality. For these first witnesses and for us today, that meant hope had come to life!
INSIGHT
WHAT AREAS OR RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR LIFE MIGHT NEED A NEW HOPE? ASK THE RISEN JESUS TO HELP.
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Joshua 1-2
Psalm 97
Acts 21

John 19:31-42
New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
31 Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. 32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. 33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken,"[a] 37 and, as another scripture says, "They will look on the one they have pierced."[b]
The Burial of Jesus
38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.[c] 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. 41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. 42 Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
Footnotes:
a. John 19:36 Exodus 12:46; Num. 9:12; Psalm 34:20
b. John 19:37 Zech. 12:10
c. John 19:39 Greek a hundred litrai (about 34 kilograms)

ANCHOR DEVOTIONS (MARCH 08, 2012)

An Excruciating Truth
John 19:16-42





"Finally, Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified... "
(JOHN 19:16)
It was a time in history like many others: a seemingly innocent man falsely accused, condemned in a mock trial and convicted to death for His radical claims. He was tortured, whipped and thrust naked upon a cross with stakes piercing His arms and feet, then left to suffer one of the most excruciating and inhumane forms of death penalty the world has ever known. Hundreds watched. Many ridiculed Him. Some despaired.
The long, painful death wreaked havoc on His organs, His muscles, His joints, adding unimaginable distress on His wrists and feet. Eventually, His lungs couldn't hold up from the pressure as He took His final breath. The sky darkened; the agony accelerated. His lungs collapsed. His organs failed. His heart stopped. And when there was no life left in Him - just to add a final misery - some thug grabbed a spear and pierced His ribs. Finally, the bloody, bruised corpse was removed from the tree and left in a tomb.
Jesus was dead. And it was the strangest bit of good news the world has ever known.
INSIGHT
REFLECT FOR A MOMENT ON WHAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE TO WATCH JESUS, THE INNOCENT SON OF GOD, DIE ON A CROSS.
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Deuteronomy 33-34
Psalm 96
Acts 20

John 19:16-42
16 Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified.
The Crucifixion
So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. 17 Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). 18 Here they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle.
19 Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20 Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. 21 The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, "Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews."
22 Pilate answered, "What I have written, I have written."
23 When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.
24 "Let’s not tear it," they said to one another. "Let’s decide by lot who will get it."
This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled which said,
"They divided my garments among them
and cast lots for my clothing."[a]
So this is what the soldiers did.
25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," 27 and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.
The Death of Jesus
28 Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." 29 A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. 30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
31 Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. 32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. 33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken,"[b] 37 and, as another scripture says, "They will look on the one they have pierced."[c]
The Burial of Jesus
38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.[d] 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. 41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. 42 Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
Footnotes:
a. John 19:24 Psalm 22:18
b. John 19:36 Exodus 12:46; Num. 9:12; Psalm 34:20
c. John 19:37 Zech. 12:10
d. John 19:39 Greek a hundred litrai (about 34 kilograms)



THE WAY OF THE CROSS
Jesus was obedient to the Father's will and chose the way of the cross. For those who would follow Jesus, the way of the cross is still the only choice . . . and it is a joyful journey like no other!