Day 35--God wants you.

“I grew up in a Christian home. I went to Bible studies and church with my family on Sundays. I went with the flow of things. I never really understood what my purpose was until God spoke to my heart. I was baptized when I was little, but that wasn't my choice, it was my parents. I decided to get baptized again and make the choice of having a personal relationship with Jesus. I made this choice when I finally understood what having a relationship with Christ is like.  Having a personal relationship with God has taught me that you can get through anything as long as you have two important keys. These keys are hope and faith. Be sure to always put your faith in him where ever you may turn. Always put your hope into your obstacles that may come your way. If you allow god to live through he can and will change your life for the better.”  --Kathryn J.

Yesterday was Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week in the church.  It’s a time where we follow Jesus’ journey to the cross, from His triumphant entry into Jerusalem to Judas’ betrayal.  From praying in the garden to being beaten by the soldiers.  From an unfair trial to death on the cross.

There’s a lot to take away from the week ahead of us.  If you’ve never been to a Maundy Thursday or Good Friday service I encourage you to find one and try it out.  You can come with me!  But if you do, hear or learn nothing else this week please listen to this…

God. Wants. You.

He wants a personal relationship with YOU.  Your parents, your friends, your pastors…these are all wonderful people He’s put in your life.  But none of the gifts they can share with you will be more precious than the relationship He will have directly with you.  Otherwise everything ahead of us this Holy Week will be for naught. 

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Luke 19:38

God knew that the same people that hailed Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday would betray him, hurl insults at him and mock him just a few short days later.  He sent Him anyway.  Jesus comes in the name of God, who created this world, who created you, who loves you, who seeks to have a relationship with you.  We are blessed indeed.

Dear God, it’s Monday and you know what that means.  Back to the grind at school, at work, at home.  But Lord let this week ahead of me be different.  Let me hear the message you have for me in Jesus’ story.  Let me hear your voice like never before.  Lead me to the cross, God.  Lead me to You.  Amen.