Join us to go through Jesus’ journey to the cross as we prepare for Easter this year! Our theme this year, “Redeemed”, reminds us of the truth that through the cross and His resurrection, we are delivered, restored, and made new. Once lost, we are now found – redeemed and chosen by His grace.
Matthew 28:5-8 ESV
5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples.
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 ESV
55 “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
The day we have been waiting for is here! Following all that has transpired on Jesus’ journey to Calvary, a profound truth emerged amidst the sorrow, transforming everything: the unimaginable occurred – Jesus rose from the dead! His resurrection is not just a miraculous event; it is the defining moment of our faith. Every step of His suffering, death, and burial led to this victorious day. His resurrection is the ultimate demonstration of God’s power and love, proving that darkness and death do not have the final word. Today, we celebrate the greatest victory in history: Jesus is alive!
Easter is a time of profound joy and hope, reminding us that our faith is rooted in a living Savior. The empty tomb signifies not just the defeat of death, but the promise of new life for all who believe. As we gather to celebrate, we are reminded of the hope that Easter brings—a hope that transcends our circumstances and assures us of God’s presence in our lives.
Throughout the last seven days, we have learned more about Jesus’ journey to Calvary – His intentionality, the burden He carried, and the resurrection power He has granted us – all for us to experience redemption. Redemption is not just for personal; it’s meant for all nations. Jesus’ sacrifice was for the nations and He calls us to be part of His redemptive work. Paul reminds us that through Christ, we experience victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:55-56). His victory calls us to steadfastness and encourages us to remain firm in our faith and commitment to God’s work, even amid challenges. The resurrection empowers us to persist, knowing that our efforts in sharing the Gospel and serving others are meaningful and eternal.
Let’s not take for granted how we have been redeemed and live out the transformative power of the Gospel. In doing so, we embrace the opportunity to invite others to experience the joy of Christ’s resurrection and the hope of eternal life, participating in the ongoing story of redemption that began on that glorious Easter morning.
Reflection and Application
- What has God redeemed you from? How does Jesus’ victory over sin and death give you hope? Recall your Gospel story and use it to be a witness to others around you.
- In what ways can you actively participate in God’s redemptive work? Consider all 5 dimensions of your life (self, church, family, work and neighbor), and set 1-2 SMS (specific, measurable, set time) next steps.
Prayer Requests
CityU:
- For people to experience the healing and peace of Jesus in our community.
- 5 salvations for the coming year!
- Deep discipleship culture within the brothers & sisters.
- The next generation of disciples to be raised up (year 1 & 2s)
- Members are being inspired by their experience of Jesus and are eager to evangelize to the people around them.
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