Growing In Faith Together 
March 28, 2021
TODAY’S TEXTS
Zechariah 9:9-10
Philippians 2:5-11
Mark 11:1-11
GATHERED BY GRACE
The last week of Jesus' life began with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowd claims that Jesus comes in the name of (that is, under the authority of) YHWH and intends to reestablish the kingdom of David. "Hosanna" is a plea that means "save now". A colt suggests the paradox of a humble king. The other readings demonstrate humility lived out; Christ empties himself of divine power, willingly becoming vulnerable to those who put him to death.
FROM PALMS TO PASSION
Daily readings and reflections for Holy Week
Take some time each day during the coming week to reflect on the story of Jesus’ passion and crucifixion. Read the daily scripture slowly, pause, and read it again. Then write a brief prayer reflecting the feelings that you experience as you read the passage.
For next Sunday April 4:
TODAY’S TEXTS
Zechariah 9:9-10
Philippians 2:5-11
Mark 11:1-11
GATHERED BY GRACE
The last week of Jesus' life began with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowd claims that Jesus comes in the name of (that is, under the authority of) YHWH and intends to reestablish the kingdom of David. "Hosanna" is a plea that means "save now". A colt suggests the paradox of a humble king. The other readings demonstrate humility lived out; Christ empties himself of divine power, willingly becoming vulnerable to those who put him to death.
FROM PALMS TO PASSION
Daily readings and reflections for Holy Week
Take some time each day during the coming week to reflect on the story of Jesus’ passion and crucifixion. Read the daily scripture slowly, pause, and read it again. Then write a brief prayer reflecting the feelings that you experience as you read the passage.
Monday, March 29
Read: Mark 11:15-19
My prayer for this day....
Tuesday, March 30
Read: Mark 14:1-25
My prayer for this day....
Wednesday, March 31
Read: Mark 14:26-52
My prayer for this day....
Thursday, April 1
Read: Mark 14:53-15:20
My prayer for this day....
Friday, April 2
Read: Mark 15:21-39
My prayer for this day....
Saturday, April 3
Read: Mark 15:40-47
My prayer for this day....
For next Sunday April 4:
Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Mark 16:1-8
PRAYERS FOR THE WEEK
For the Week: What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
For Throughout the Day: Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us.
Mealtime Refrain: Let every tongue confess: Jesus Christ is Lord.
A Blessing to Share: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
Lenten Season Mealtime Prayer:
If we skip from Palm Sunday to Easter, without stopping to ponder the cross then we will have misunderstood the whole thing. Take some time each day during the coming week to reflect on the story of Jesus’ passion. You can find the daily readings above.
For the Week: What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
For Throughout the Day: Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us.
Mealtime Refrain: Let every tongue confess: Jesus Christ is Lord.
A Blessing to Share: Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
Lenten Season Mealtime Prayer:
Blessed are you, O God, giver of all.
You fill our table and
give us companions for our journey.
Strengthen us through this food we share
and through the love we have for one another and you.
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional practice: If we skip from Palm Sunday to Easter, without stopping to ponder the cross then we will have misunderstood the whole thing. Take some time each day during the coming week to reflect on the story of Jesus’ passion. You can find the daily readings above.
Lenten Ritual:
Join us online for Holy Week services.
Join us online for Holy Week services.
Maundy Thursday at 6:30pm and Good Friday at noon and 6:30pm.
SCATTERED FOR SERVICE
During the meal Jesus got up, removed his outer garment, and wrapped a towel around his waist. He put some water into a large bowl. Then he began washing his disciples' feet and drying them with the towel he was wearing. (John 13.3-5)
Foot washing was usually carried out by a servant. You can imagine the awkward silence as Jesus picks up the towel, pours the water and proceeds to wash and dry each pair of dirty feet. By washing his disciples’ feet, he is giving them a striking symbol to explain his death and how he wants them- and us- to live in response. Who can you find to serve this week? What simple act of kindness or service can you offer to others?
During the meal Jesus got up, removed his outer garment, and wrapped a towel around his waist. He put some water into a large bowl. Then he began washing his disciples' feet and drying them with the towel he was wearing. (John 13.3-5)
Foot washing was usually carried out by a servant. You can imagine the awkward silence as Jesus picks up the towel, pours the water and proceeds to wash and dry each pair of dirty feet. By washing his disciples’ feet, he is giving them a striking symbol to explain his death and how he wants them- and us- to live in response. Who can you find to serve this week? What simple act of kindness or service can you offer to others?