He Is Worthy: Good Friday Service/Sermon Outline


Opening Worship Set

● The Lion and the Lamb
● King of Kings
● Thank You, Jesus for the Blood Applied

Welcome, Offering Introduction, and Prayer

Video – Scars by Storyloop (This video can play while the offering is being collected)

Explanation of Service: Jesus has scars because of His love for us. Tonight, we are going to envision everything that Jesus has done for us from a different perspective – the perspective of heaven. We sometimes sing The Lion and the Lamb. But how often
do we sing that song without thinking about where that imagery of Jesus comes from? All the time. So tonight, let’s consider the sacrifice of our Lord from a different viewpoint. In the book of Revelation, the Apostle John had a vision of Heaven, complete with the twenty four elders, worshiping angels, and people from every tribe, language, and ethnicity. Together, as we walk through this scripture, let’s imagine what it must have felt like to John to experience this scene of worship from around the throne of God.

The Apostle John writes…“Then I saw a scroll in the right hand of the One who was sitting on the throne. There
was writing on the inside and the outside of the scroll, and it was sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel, who shouted with a loud voice: ‘Who is worthy to break the seals on this scroll and open it?’” (Revelation 5:1-2)

The One who is seated on the throne is God the Father. In His right hand is a scroll with writing on both sides. The scroll represents God’s plan for the world and His ultimate plan for redemption. It is so important that it is sealed with seven seals so not just anyone can open it. Whoever opens it has to be someone special, someone important, someone worthy…

“But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll and read it. Then I began to weep bitterly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll and read it.” (Revelation 5:3-4)

Right there in Heaven, the Apostle John broke down into tears because no one was able to open the scroll. He wasn’t simply crying over the scroll but what it represented. He was crying because no one was able to open and share God’s redemption plan.
People not being able to open the scroll demonstrates the inability of people to redeem themselves. Let’s face it. We are not worthy to redeem ourselves. Think about it, if no one can open the scroll and get to the plan of redemption, then who can possibly be
redeemed? No one.

Many of us have faced moments where our strength falters, our wisdom fails, and we finally realize our own limitations. In this scripture, we are invited to surrender our reliance on self and recognize our desperate need for a Savior. In the moments when we feel unworthy or overwhelmed by the complexities of life, remember that Jesus is the One who is worthy. He is the One who can open the scrolls of our lives, revealing purpose and fulfillment beyond our understanding and frankly, beyond our wildest dreams. No matter where we are right now, remember all He has done for us and that He will never fail nor leave us nor forsake us. We simply have to trust in God.

Song – Trust In God

Prayer – (something like this) – Lord, I trust in You. When I encounter limitations, help me to trust in Your wisdom and sovereignty. Please help me to always find the comfort and strength I need in knowing that Jesus is worthy and holds the answers and the key to all that is sealed before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Lion and the Lamb scripture: “But one of the twenty-four elders said to me, ‘Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of the tribe of
Judah, the heir to David’s throne, has won the victory. He is worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals.’” Then I saw a Lamb that looked as if it had been slaughtered, but it was now standing between the throne and the four living beings and among the twenty-four elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which represent the sevenfold Spirit of God that is sent out into every part of the earth. He stepped forward and took the scroll from the right hand of the one sitting on the throne.” (Revelation 5:5-7)

Explanation: Why is it that John was able to stop weeping? Because Jesus, the Lion of Judah, the heir to King David’s throne, the Lamb that was slain, stepped into the scene. Remember we said that it would take someone really special to open the seals and
reveal God’s plan of redemption. It took Jesus, the only One who ever lived a totally sinless life. The One who became sin for us. The One who was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities. The One who Satan thought was dead, but
who instead defeated death, hell, and the grave.

The Lamb is Worthy Scripture: Jesus stepped forward and took the scroll from the right hand of God the Father. The
Bible says…. “When He took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song with these words: You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it, for You were slaughtered, and Your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. And You have caused them to become a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on the earth.” (Revelation 5:8-10)

Explanation: Did you catch that? The scripture said that the blood of the Lamb, or Jesus, has paid the ransom for our souls. Because of that, we can spend eternity with Him, worshiping Him alongside the elders, the beings, and the angels, and a massive group of people from every tribe, nation, and language.

He Is Worthy Scripture: Then I looked again and heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne, and of the living beings and the elders. They sang in a mighty chorus, ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!’ (Revelation 5:11-12)

Spoken – Stand and say those words with me…

Speak in Unison: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”

Explanation: Just like in the Apostle John’s day, there’s so much happening in today’s world, so much stuff that causes us to shake our heads in disbelief. We see the sin of the world around us and then we look at our own sin, and we realize that without Jesus, the one who died for us, the one who is worthy to open the scroll revealing God’s salvation plan, we are all doomed. Let’s thank the Lord for Jesus right now as we sing…

Is He Worthy – by Andrew Peterson (Cece Winan version)

Decision Time/Communion – Reprise of Thank You Jesus For the Blood Applied

Prayer of Blessing and Closing

*This Good Friday service was initially created for Celebration Church in New Orleans

**Image courtesy of Jack Prommel

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The Place of the Skull: A Good Friday Devotion

Scripture – Carrying the cross by Himself, He went to the place called Place of the Skull. There they nailed Him to the cross. Two others were crucified with Him, one on either side, with Jesus between them… When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they divided His clothes among the four of them. They also took His robe, but it was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. So they said, “Rather than tearing it apart, let’s throw dice for it…” 

Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw His mother standing there beside the disciple He loved, He said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.” 

Jesus knew that His mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture He said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to His lips. When Jesus had tasted it, He said, “It is finished!” Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” (John 19:17-18, 23-24, 25-30)

Devotion – As we meditate on John 19 today, we find ourselves at the foot of the cross where Jesus, the Son of God, is crucified. This moment is a powerful reminder of the immense suffering He willingly endured out of His love for humanity. Jesus’ journey to Calvary was marked by humiliation, agony, and betrayal, yet His love remained steadfast.

In John 19:30, Jesus utters the words, “It is finished.” With these words, Jesus declared the completion of His mission to save us from our sins. The significance of His suffering cannot be overstated-it was a sacrifice made so that we might receive eternal life. Reflecting on the depth of Jesus’ love and the extent of His suffering invites us to consider the vastness of His grace. Despite the pain and suffering, His actions demonstrate a profound love that transcends human understanding. Through His death, we gain life. As you contemplate the significance of Good Friday, let these truths deepen your appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What emotions do you experience when you envision Jesus on the cross, willingly taking on the burden of sin for humanity?
  2. How does Jesus’ declaration, “It is finished,” impact your understanding of His work of salvation?
  3. In what ways can you live out the love and grace that Jesus demonstrated through His suffering and sacrifice?

Prayer – Heavenly Father, as I reflect on the profound suffering of Jesus on the cross, I am overwhelmed by His boundless love for me. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for the sacrifice that was made on my behalf. Help me to live in a way that reflects Jesus’ love and grace to others. May my heart be forever grateful, and may I draw closer to You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Worship Activity – Make plans to attend a Good Friday service this evening. As you observe communion, reflect upon all Jesus has done for you.

*This devotion was originally written for “The Week that Changed Everything” Holy Week Devotional by Celebration Church NOLA

**Photo courtesy of Alicia Quan

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Strength Through Prayer: A Maundy Thursday Devotion

Scripture – Accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. There He told them, “Pray that you will not give in to temptation.”

He walked away, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, “Father, if You are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from Me. Yet I want Your will to be done, not mine.” Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened Him. He prayed more fervently, and He was in such agony of spirit that His sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.

At last He stood up again and returned to the disciples, only to find them asleep, exhausted from grief. “Why are you sleeping?” He asked them. “Get up and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation.” (Luke 22:39-46)

Devotion – On the day we call Maundy Thursday, Jesus ate the Last Supper with His disciples. Much later that evening, He was openly betrayed by Judas and arrested. Between those two events, Jesus and His disciples went to the Mount of Olives to pray which was His custom. There, Jesus modeled the power of prayer during times of trial. He urged His disciples to pray so they would not fall into temptation, highlighting the importance of prayer as a source of strength and guidance. 

Jesus, facing immense suffering, turned to God the Father in prayer, aligning His will with God’s. His example shows us that prayer is not just about seeking comfort, but about finding the resolve to follow God’s will, even when it is difficult. As we navigate our own challenges, we must remember that prayer equips us to withstand temptation and remain faithful. It’s a tool for connection with God, empowering us to seek His strength and wisdom in every situation.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What temptations do you face regularly that you need to bring to God in prayer?
  2. How can Jesus’ example of anguish and dedication in prayer encourage you in times of personal struggle?
  3. In what ways can you incorporate more intentional prayer into your daily routine to seek God’s guidance and strength?

Prayer – Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Your Son, Jesus, who showed us the power and necessity of prayer. Help us to seek You earnestly, especially in times of trial and temptation. Grant us the strength to align our wills with Yours, trusting in Your plan for our lives. Fill us with Your wisdom and peace, that we may walk faithfully in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Followup Worship Activity – Prayerfully read the following scriptures, all the while asking the Lord to speak to you about how you might improve your own prayer life: Psalm 17, Matthew 6:9-13, Ephesians 6:18, and Philippians 4:6-7.

*This post was originally written for the Holy Week Devotional “The Week That Changed Everything” for Celebration Church New Orleans.

**Photo Courtesy of Jon Tyson

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Anointing Jesus – A Holy Wednesday Devotion

Scripture – Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. While He was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume over His head.

Some of those at the table were indignant. “Why waste such expensive perfume?” they asked. “It could have been sold for a year’s wages and the money given to the poor!” So they scolded her harshly. 

But Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. Why criticize her for doing such a good thing to Me? You will always have the poor among you, and you can help them whenever you want to. But you will not always have Me. She has done what she could and has anointed My body for burial ahead of time. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed.” (Mark 14:3-9)

Devotion – As we contemplate the events of Holy Wednesday, we are drawn to the beautiful and worshipful act of the woman who anointed Jesus with precious perfume in Bethany. This act of devotion was not only generous but also deeply personal and sacrificial. By pouring the expensive perfume on Jesus, the woman displayed her understanding of His divine nature and the imminent sacrifice He would make. 

Her actions remind us that true worship often involves giving our best to the Lord, in recognition of His infinite worth. The outpouring of the perfume symbolizes the outpouring of her love and reverence for Jesus. Despite criticism from others, she remained focused and unwavering in her commitment to honor Him, setting an example of wholehearted devotion. 

Reflection Questions:

  1. What can we learn from the woman’s willingness to give something valuable to honor Jesus?
  2. How can we demonstrate our devotion to Jesus in our daily lives, even when others may not understand or appreciate it?
  3. In what ways can we offer our best to Christ today, reflecting the sacrificial love shown by the woman?

Prayer – Lord, as we think about the devotion of the woman who anointed You, help us to understand the depth of true worship. May we be inspired to give our best to You, recognizing Your infinite worth. Help us to live our lives as offerings of love and reverence, unwavering in our commitment to honor You. Guide our hearts to be focused on You, just as the woman’s was, holding nothing back. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Followup Worship Activity – In your journal or on a piece of paper, make a list of the possessions you hold most dear in life. Ask yourself whether you would be willing to give them to the Lord if He led you to do so. Write out a prayer to the Lord, committing to Him that He is more important to you than any of these items.

*This post was originally written for “The Week that Changed Everything,” a Holy Week devotional by Celebration Church New Orleans.

**Photo courtesy of Matt Botsford

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The Widow’s Mite – A Holy Tuesday Devotion

Scripture – While Jesus was in the Temple, He watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” (Luke 21:1-3)

Devotion: On Holy Tuesday, Jesus went to the temple in Jerusalem to teach and engage with the people. During this time, He addressed various people, including the religious leaders, challenging their authority and highlighting the importance of sincere faith and righteousness. Jesus also used this opportunity to convey parables and teachings about the kingdom of God, emphasizing such themes as justice, humility, and true devotion. His presence in the temple underscored His role as a teacher and prophet, preparing the way for the events that would unfold later in the week. 

As we reflect on the happenings and teachings of Jesus on Holy Tuesday, we are invited to reflect on the nature of true worship, as demonstrated by the widow’s humble offering. Her actions teach us valuable lessons about sacrifice, sincerity, and true devotion to God. The widow gave all she had, illustrating that worship is not about the size of our gift, but about the heart with which it is given. Her act of worship was one of deep trust and adoration, reminding us to consider not simply what we offer, but how and why we offer it to the Lord. 

Reflection Questions:

  1. What are some ways we can offer our resources and talents as forms of worship, regardless of their size?
  2. How does the widow’s example challenge us to reconsider what true sacrifice and devotion is really about?
  3. In what areas of our lives can we put more trust and reliance on God, much like the widow did?

Prayer – Lord, thank You for the powerful example of the widow’s faith and devotion. Help us today to understand that true worship comes from the heart and that our offerings, no matter how small, are significant when given in sincerity and love. Guide us to be more sacrificial in our daily lives, trusting in Your provision and grace. Teach us to give generously, knowing that our acts of worship are pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Followup Worship Activity – In your journal or on a piece of paper, make a list of several ways God has provided for you throughout your life. Then, write out a prayer of worship, thanking God for His provision and declaring that you put your faith and hope in Him.

*This devotion was originally written for “The Week that Changed Everything” Holy Week Devotional for Celebration Church in New Orleans. The full devotional is available for free download at http://www.celebrationchurch.org/library

**Image courtesy of Europeana

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Cleansing Your Temple – A Holy Monday Devotion

Scripture – The next morning as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. He noticed a fig tree in full leaf a little way off, so He went over to see if He could find any figs. But there were only leaves because it was too early in the season for fruit. Then Jesus said to the tree, “May no one ever eat your fruit again!” And the disciples heard Him say it. 

When they arrived back in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifices. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves, and He stopped everyone from using the Temple as a marketplace. He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.” (Mark 11:12-17)

Devotion – In the scripture above, we read about Jesus cursing the fig tree and cleansing the Temple. The fig tree, with its leaves blossoming but having no fruit, symbolizes a life filled with appearances but lacking substance. Likewise, Jesus finds the Temple bustling with commerce, distracting worshipers from its true purpose – prayer and worship of God. 

Holy Monday invites us to reflect on the areas of our own lives that may resemble the fig tree or the Temple. Are there aspects where we present a thriving appearance but are lacking genuine spiritual fruit? Are there distractions or clutter in our lives preventing us from focusing on God? 

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are there habits or behaviors in our lives that look fruitful from the outside but aren’t producing the spiritual fruit they should?
  2. What tables in my heart might Jesus want to overturn to help me refocus on Him?
  3. How can we create personal spaces or routines dedicated to uninterrupted time with God, focusing solely on prayer and reflection?

Prayer – Lord, as we reflect on Holy Monday, give us insight into our own lives. Help us identify areas that need cleansing and renewal, where we might be more focused on appearances than on genuine faith and spiritual growth. Teach us to remove distractions from our lives that keep us from connecting with You. Guide us in cultivating our lives so they bear true spiritual fruit, anchored in Your Word. May our hearts always be temples of prayer and devotion, always seeking Your will and Your presence. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen. 

Followup Worship Activity – In your journal or on a piece of paper, write out a prayer of personal dedication to the Lord, expressing your willingness to purge the areas of your own life that need spiritual cleansing.

*This devotion was written for “The Week That Changed Everything,” a Holy Week Devotional for Celebration Church in New Orleans. The entire devotional is available for download at http://www.celebrationchurch.org/library

**Image Courtesy of Nellie Adamyan

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WHEN WORSHIP WELCOMES THE KING: A Palm Sunday Sermon Outline

Read Matthew 21:1-11

  • Palm Sunday is when we remember Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem.
  • “Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your King is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet He is humble, riding on a donkey-riding on a donkey’s colt.” (Zechariah 9:9)
  • The Triumphal Entry of Jesus wasn’t simply a parade; it was a Masterclass in worship. 
  • To worship Jesus as He deserves, we must cease being spectators in the crowd and become true worshippers of Him. 

Truly Worshiping Jesus Requires: PREPARING FOR HIS PRESENCE

  • “Jesus sent two of them (disciples) on ahead. ‘Go into the village over there,’ He said. ‘As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to Me. If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.” (Matthew 21:1-3)
  • Preparing for God’s presence involves finding both corporate and personal places to worship.
  • “When He came to the village of Nazareth, His boyhood home, He went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath…” (Luke 4:16)
  • Jesus’ example of regularly participating in corporate worship should encourage us to do the same. 
  • “Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.” (Luke 5:16)
  • Jesus’ example of preparing for worship should encourage us to create environments where we can experience God’s presence. 
  • Preparing for God’s presence involves confessing our sins and aligning our hearts with His.
  • David – “Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from Your presence, and don’t take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and make me willing to obey You.” (Psalm 51:10-12)

Truly Worshiping Jesus Requires: PRAISING HIM WHOLEHEARTEDLY 

  • Worshiping Jesus requires a genuine expression of devotion that is both physical and verbal.
  • “Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of Him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.” (Matthew 21:8)
  • The actions of those who welcomed Jesus was an outward demonstration of the condition of their hearts – overflowing with excitement and reverence. 
  • Praising God physically includes different postures – kneeling; bowing our heads; lifting and clapping our hands; etc… 
  • “Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.” (Psalm 95:6)
  • Paul – “I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God…” (1 Timothy 2:8)
  • “Come everyone! Clap your hands! Shout to God with joyful praise!” (Psalm 47:1)
  • Worshiping Jesus also includes praising Him verbally.
  • “Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around Him were shouting, ‘Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the One who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 21:9)
  • The praises of those who welcomed Jesus were alive with faith and expectation, and they used their voices to exalt Him. 
  • “Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before Him, singing with joy. Acknowledge that the Lord is God!” (Psalm 100:1-3)
  • Worshiping Jesus wholeheartedly includes verbal actions like singing, shouting, reading Scripture, acknowledging Him, thanking Him, sharing testimonies about Him, and declaring His worth.
  • “But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, ‘Teacher, rebuke Your followers for saying things like that!’ He replied, ‘If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!’” (Luke 19:39-40)
  • Jesus is God and He will be praised, one way or another. 
  • “Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honor and gave Him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)

Truly Worshiping Jesus Requires: PROCLAIMING HIM AS LORD

  • “The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as He entered. ‘Who is this?’ they asked. And the crowds replied, ‘It’s Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.’” (Matthew 21:10-11)
  • Proclaiming Jesus as Lord includes acknowledging Him before others.
  • “Everyone who acknowledges Me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 10:32)
  • When we acknowledge Jesus, we publicly declare who He is and the good news He offers.
  • “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes-the Jew first and also the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16)
  • Proclaiming Jesus as Lord includes identifying with and following Him. 
  • “My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
  • Identifying with Jesus means being willing to stand with Him even when it is unpopular or leads to rejection. 
  • Jesus – “If anyone is ashamed of Me and My message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when He returns in His glory…” (Luke 9:26)
  • Proclaiming Jesus as Lord includes surrendering our lives to Him daily. 
  • Jesus – “If any of you wants to be My follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23)
  • Surrender is an act of worship – a daily decision to put aside our own desires in order to follow His lead in all we do. 

“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind He will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.” (Romans 12:1)

*This sermon was originally written for the campuses of Celebration Church in the New Orleans region. Special thanks for consultation with Pastors Dennis Watson and David Ford.

**Image Courtesy of Brooke Lark

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Welcome the King – A Palm Sunday Devotion

Scripture – As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. “Go into the village over there,” He said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to Me. If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.” This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said, “Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey-riding on a donkey’s colt.’” The two disciples did as Jesus commanded. They brought the donkey and the colt to Him and threw their garments over the colt, and He sat on it. Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of Him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around Him were shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the One who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!” (Mark 11:1-10)

Devotion – As we reflect on Matthew’s description of Palm Sunday, we are drawn into the vibrant scene of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This moment is filled with anticipation and joy as the crowds gather, waving palm branches and shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David!” Their excitement and hope are palpable, celebrating Jesus as their long awaited Messiah and King.

This passage invites us to consider how we welcome Jesus into our lives. The people of Jerusalem received Him with open arms and hearts, acknowledging His presence with enthusiasm and worship. In the same way, we should open our hearts to Jesus, embracing Him with the same anticipation and joy.

To truly welcome Jesus, it’s essential to cultivate an attitude of openness and readiness. This means setting aside distractions and making room for His influence in our daily lives. It involves recognizing Him as our guiding force and drawing upon His teachings to shape our decisions and actions. We must also welcome Him with our worship and gratitude, acknowledging His love and grace in our lives, and expressing our reverence and appreciation for all that Jesus has done and continues to do for us. Today, let’s strive to be like those in Jerusalem who, with joyful hearts, laid palm branches at His feet, expressing not only their adoration but also their willingness to have Him rule over their lives. 

Reflection Questions:

  1. In what ways can I welcome the Lord more into my life today?
  2. How can I express my joy and gratitude for Jesus every day through my personal worship and spiritual disciplines?
  3. What distractions might I need to set aside to make room for Christ’s influence in my life? 

Prayer – Lord, help me make room for Your presence every day of my life, setting aside distractions and embracing You, Your Word, and Your will for my life. Today, let me honor You with my words and actions, expressing my complete gratitude for Your everlasting love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Followup Worship Activity – Today, as you begin your time of private worship, take a moment to enthusiastically welcome the presence of the Lord.

* Image Courtesy of Brady Leavell

** This devotion is part of the Holy Week Devotional titled “The Week That Changed Everything” by Celebration Church in New Orleans.

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The Marine and the Imago Dei

My dad went to Heaven in January. As you can imagine, it’s been a difficult few weeks for my mom, my sisters, and for Kathy and me. However, it’s also been a time to celebrate my dad’s life. He was Marine Corps MSGT Johnny Frady, often called Top Frady. He served for 22 years, completing two tours in Vietnam for which he was awarded the Bronze Star for Combat. 

After his military career, my dad worked for the military as a civilian before moving into his third career as a farmer in Arkansas. Even though he was a tough Marine, he was probably the most humane person I’ve ever met. He cared about animals, no matter if they were in the woods, in the fields, in the barns, or in the house. In a similar way, Daddy cared about people and taught us to care about them, regardless of their ethnicity, economic status, or educational background. To him, you respected people because they were people. 

Daddy never used this term, but he instilled in me a strong belief in the Imago Dei, or “image of God.” The Imago Dei is the belief that humans are created in God’s likeness and therefore possess inherent dignity and worth. This idea is rooted in Genesis 1:27, which states, “So God created human beings in His own image. In the image of God, He created them; male and female He created them.” This scripture emphasizes that men and women everywhere reflect God’s nature, fostering the understanding that every person should be treated with respect, care, and love because, even if they don’t realize it, they bear the image of their Creator. 

Life today would be so much better if everyone believed in the Imago Dei. A strong belief that people are made in God’s imageleads us to treat one another with respect, kindness, and compassion, recognizing the inherent value in every person. Understanding that everyone is made in the image of God encourages empathy, fosters a sense of community, and highlights our shared humanity. The Imago Dei promotes the idea that we should honor one another’s dignity and value their existence, regardless of our differences. We should intentionally strive to create environments where love and understanding prevail. Finally, we should strive to reflect care and support for the well-being of every person with whom we interact, either in person or online. It’s my prayer that we would all remember to treat others as if they were made in the image of God. If we did, oh my, how different today’s world would be.

* Photo courtesy of Chad Stembridge via Unsplash

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My Top Books Read in 2025

In 2025, I read 106 books. While some of those books deserve much attention and hoopla, some deserve no mention at all. With that in mind, I’m sharing my list of those I actually recommend…

Fiction

  • The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis 
  • Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis
  • How To Stop Time by Matt Haig 
  • The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
  • The Tenant by Freida McFadden 
  • The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
  • None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
  • Son by Lois Lowry
  • My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Ministry

  • Church for Everyone: Building a Multi-Inclusive Community for Emerging Generations by Dan Kreiss and Efrem Smith
  • Insider Outsider: My Journey as a Stranger in White Evangelicalism and My Hope for Us All by Bryan Loritts
  • In Church As It Is In Heaven: Cultivating a Multiethnic Kingdom Culture by Jamaal E. Williams and Timothy Paul Jones
  • Ethnic Blends: Mixing Diversity into Your Local Church by Mark DeYmaz and Harry Li.
  • Story Shaped Worship: Following Patterns from the Bible and History by Robbie F. Castleman
  • The Color of Church: A Biblical and Practical Paradigm for Multiracial Churches by Rodney M. Woo

Spiritual

  • One Year Bible
  • Get Your Life Back by John Eldridge
  • The Hour that Changes the World: A Practical Plan for Personal Prayer by Dick Eastman
  • New Morning Mercies by David Paul Tripp

Leadership/Growth

  • Hero on a Mission: A Path to a Meaningful Life by Donald Miller
  • David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants by Malcom Gladwell
  • Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guildara
  • The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell

Biography

  • When Life Gives You Pears: the Healing Power of Family, Faith, and Funny People by Jeannie Gaffigan

Travel

  • Five Finger Feast: Two Years in Kazakhstan by Tim Suchsland.
  • On the Hippie Trail by Rick Steves

*Image Courtesy of Tom Hermans

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