RSS

Tag Archives: jesus

Good Friday Prayer

29 Mar
Good Friday Prayer

Day 39

Dear God, on this Good Friday, a day shrouded in sorrow, we remember Jesus’ immense suffering. The betrayal, mockery, and agonizing pain of the cross unfold before us, a stark reminder of the tremendous price paid for our salvation.

Even amidst the crushing weight of Good Friday, a flicker of hope remains. Jesus’ unwavering love for humanity shines through in his final act of forgiveness: “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”

Lord, help us find strength in Jesus’ sacrifice, a testament to the depths of your love for us. May we learn from his example of compassion and forgiveness, even in the face of immense pain.

As we contemplate the darkness of this day, may we hold fast to the promise whispered in those final words – the promise of redemption, of a new beginning, and the light to come. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 29, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Media, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , ,

Wednesday of Holy Week: Day 37

27 Mar
Wednesday of Holy Week: Day 37

Merciful Lord, on this Holy Wednesday, we reflect on the betrayal and denial Jesus experienced from those closest to Him. Help us to examine our own hearts and repent of any ways we have strayed from your will. May this time of reflection deepen our commitment to follow Christ, even in the face of adversity and temptation. Just as Judas betrayed Jesus and Peter denied him, we acknowledge our own moments of weakness and failure. Yet, in your infinite mercy, you offer us forgiveness and redemption through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Grant us the strength and courage to follow Christ faithfully, and may we draw closer to you during this Holy Week. Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 27, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , , ,

Tuesday of Holy Week: Day 36

26 Mar
Tuesday of Holy Week: Day 36

Loving God, as we continue our journey through Holy Week, we are mindful of the challenges Jesus faced in the days leading to his crucifixion. Grant us the grace to confront our own trials with courage and faith. May the humility and obedience of Christ inspire us to follow him more closely, knowing that he walks with us every step of the way. Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 26, 2024 in Church, Community, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , ,

Monday of Holy Week: Day 35

25 Mar
Monday of Holy Week: Day 35

Gracious God, as Holy Week unfolds, the jubilant cries of “Hosanna!” still resonate. Yet, a deeper understanding settles upon us. Jesus’ arrival on a donkey, a symbol of peace, starkly contrasts the expectations of a conquering king. This quiet act underscores the true nature of his mission – one of humility, service, and ultimate sacrifice. We reflect on the events leading to the cross. Grant us the courage to walk alongside Jesus. Help us to set aside distractions and focus our hearts on the significance of this sacred time. May our actions and prayers be a testament to our commitment to follow Christ. Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 25, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , , , ,

Saturday of the Sixth Week in Lent

23 Mar
Saturday of the Sixth Week in Lent

3.23.24

Day 34: Dear God, a sense of anticipation fills the air on this Saturday before Holy Week. We reflect on the words of Hebrews (5:5-10) that remind us of Jesus, who learned and grew through his experiences. We are grateful for his obedience, learning through suffering, and becoming the source of eternal salvation for all who choose. 

Grant us the grace to emulate Christ’s obedience, even amidst trials, knowing that we find true freedom and purpose through his example. Help us to surrender our will to yours, finding strength in prayer, just as Christ did. May we be transformed by Christ’s humility, shaping our lives to reflect his love and obedience. Strengthen our faith, renew our spirits, and draw us closer to you, O Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, and Savior, we offer this prayer, trusting in your boundless mercy and grace. Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 23, 2024 in Church, Community, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , ,

Friday of the Sixth Week in Lent

22 Mar
Friday of the Sixth Week in Lent

Day 33: Dear God, on this Friday of the Sixth Week of Lent, we look to you for guidance as we journey towards Holy Week. The Psalmist asks, “How can a young person keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word” (Psalm 119:9).

Like the Psalmist, we turn to your word for wisdom and direction. Help us to discern your will in our lives and find the strength to follow your path. May your light illuminate our steps and guide us towards a deeper understanding of your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 22, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , ,

Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Lent

20 Mar
Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Lent

Day 31: Merciful God, deepen our understanding of the significance of the cross. May we not shy away from the suffering Jesus endured but see it as a symbol of your boundless love and sacrifice for humanity, a sacrifice that has the power to draw all people to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 20, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , , ,

Monday of the Sixth Week in Lent

18 Mar
Monday of the Sixth Week in Lent

Day 29: Almighty God, as Holy Week approaches, heighten our awareness of the sacrifices Jesus made for us. Grant us the strength to confront our shortcomings and make the necessary sacrifices to draw closer to you. We yearn for a deeper connection with you. May our Lenten journey be a true preparation for the joy of your Son’s resurrection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 18, 2024 in Church, Community, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , ,

Friday of the Fifth Week in Lent

15 Mar
Friday of the Fifth Week in Lent

3.15.24

Day 27: Everlasting God, on this Lenten Friday, I recommit myself to following the path of Jesus. Help me to carry the light of your love into the world. Grant me the strength to overcome challenges, the courage to speak out for justice, and the compassion to offer comfort to those in need. May my actions reflect the transformative power of your love. Amen.

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 15, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: ,

Embracing the Light: Reflecting God’s Inclusive Love

14 Mar
Embracing the Light: Reflecting God’s Inclusive Love

3.14.24

“For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16) These words paint a powerful picture of God’s boundless love, a love that transcends any barrier we might imagine.

Just as God’s love embraces the entire world, we are called to expand our capacity for love. Consider the divisions in our community and the prejudices that create distance. God’s love knows no bounds, and we are called to reflect this love through compassion and understanding.

Reflecting on the sunrise as a metaphor for God’s love—a light that spills over every mountain peak and hidden valley, lighting every corner of the world. We are challenged to be beacons of this same light, welcoming those on the margins, fostering understanding, and building a more loving and just world.

Here are some questions to ponder as we move forward:

  • Does our love reflect God’s?
  • How can we better welcome those different from ourselves into our community?
  • Can we be a bridge of reconciliation, promoting understanding and fostering peace?

As we approach Holy Week, may we carry this message of God’s inclusive love in our hearts. May we shine our light brightly, a testament to the boundless love that embraces the entire world.

A summary of Sunday’s sermon based on John 3:14-21.

Sela Finau

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on March 14, 2024 in Church, Community, Culture, Family, Life, Religion, Spirituality, Theology

 

Tags: , , , ,

← Older posts
Newer posts →