SCRIPTURE LESSON: Matthew 3:13-37

THOUGHT: Let's Eliminate Negative Thinking

COMMENTARY: [by Rev. Shaver]

Have YOU ever worried that you weren't GOOD ENOUGH for a particular task? I believe that must've been the way John felt in the scripture passage for today. Jesus came down to be baptized and John didn't feel worthy. Notice though that Jesus lays aside John's fears and tells him this is the way things MUST be...in other words, it's OK John...YOU are good enough for this task...this IS what you are supposed to do and so without any more hesitation John fulfilled his destiny.

How many times in life do you think we talk ourselves out of fulfilling our God given destiny, by listening to the voices that say we are not good enough? How many blessings have we been denied, or denied others, because of all the what-ifs that run through our minds? Well beloved this is the season of LENT and its time that we recognize our spiritual heritage and the BLESSINGS that God has in store for our lives. As we reflect on our journey to the cross and empty tomb this year let's allow God to work a miracle in our lives and use the lenten season to finally allow each and every one of us to boldly say: "This is the year that I'm going to believe in God's promises for my life!" We can use the word LENT to remind ourselves to: Let's Eliminate Negative Thinking! This could be your greatest year ever if YOU can begin to see how much your Father loves you and proved His love for you through this Lenten Season.

PRAYER: Father, we are so thankful that You don't see us as we see ourselves, but that You see us as we could be. Help us to begin to catch a glimpse of what our lives could be like if we turned them completely over to You. In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 4:1-13

FAVORITE VERSE: "We must worship God and Him alone, so it is written in the Scriptures! (Luke 4:8)

COMMENTARY: [Emelyn]

We read in these three passages that Satan tempted Jesus in many ways, but Jesus remained true to His heavenly Father. And so as we make our way in this journey of life -- we, too, must remain true & faithful to our heavenly Father, no matter what the cost. The only way to accomplish this is by the leading of the Holy Spirit when we encounter difficult decisions, and life deals us a hard blow -- we're tempted to retreat; but Jesus says "Press on and remain faithful - there is a great prize to win in the end -- eternal life with Jesus who paid the price for each of us at Calvary. Praise His Holy Name!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help us to remain faithful to you till the end -- to live one day at a time as close to you as we can, and to be all that you would have us to be, in Jesus' lovely name we pray. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 1:1-18

FAVORITE VERSE: "From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another." (John 1:16)

COMMENTARY: [by Bob]

God became a man in order to win man to himself. God could have made man to do His will, but He chose to give man the power to decide for himself. God sent John the Baptist to testify that through Jesus all men might believe. And those who believe shall have one blessing after another and have eternal life. As John the Baptist testified about Jesus we also are called to testify about our beloved Jesus. Jesus favorite name for himself was "Son of Man." This suggests that Jesus rejoiced in being a disciple of God by leading a Christian life by examples, deeds and actions. Truly this is what the presence of God in my life means to me.

PRAYER: God, we give thanks that you sent your son to die so that we may life. There has been no greater love than the love Jesus has for mankind. We will continue to praise and bless your name through your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 1:19-34

FAVORITE VERSE: "Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29b)

COMMENTARY: [by Mary]

John the Baptist was prepared to answer the questions posed by religious leaders because he was a student of Hebrew history and prophetic writings. He was convinced that God had a special ministry for him alone to accomplish. Although Jesus and this John shared a familial relationship, they may not have spent much time together; therefore, John had no opportunity to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. John did have a descending upon Jesus in the baptismal rite.

All of this helps me to believe that Our Father, God, expects each of us, his children, to be prepared to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, The Lamb, worthy to be praised, who takes away the sin of the world - my sin. I also believe that the Father expects us to share with others the experiences we have had with God, our Father, and Jesus, our Redeemer. He wants us to be as available as was John to carry out the special calling He has for each of us, using the special gifts and talents with which He has gifted us.

PRAYER: Our Father, in praise and thanksgiving I come to offer myself, to follow your purpose and will for me in this world. Give me the wisdom and strength to accomplish the tasks you choose for me. Thank you for your grace and mercy. In Jesus' Name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 1:35-51

FAVORITE VERSE: "'How do you know what I am like?' Nathaniel demanded. Jesus replied, 'I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.'" (John 1:48)

COMMENTARY: [Becki]

How comforting to know that God sees all and knows all. My God knows me like no one else does. He knows my thoughts, my fears, and my joys. I know I can face the day and all that comes with it because the Lord is with me. His loving presence surrounds me and works through me as I journey through this life. Even at the darkest times of my life, my God was right there to help me. When I "hide" under a fig tree, like Nathaniel, God always finds me.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for your Holy presence in my life. My your Holy Spirit continue to fill me each day. Show me the way of patience, tolerance and love. Thy will be done, not mine. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 2:1-12

COMMENTARY: [by Jeanie]

The wedding at Cana in Galilee was a very important feast. Even Mary, the mother of Jesus, Jesus and some of his disciples were invited. This tells us they were either a relative or very close family friends.

For the host to find out all the wine was gone was a social embarrassment. Mary found out the wine was gone and asked Jesus to do something about it. Jesus was a little displeased with what his mother asked Him to do because it was not time for Him to display His amazing power and authority. Mary insisted and the servants followed Jesus' orders and the finest of wines was produced.

If we will just let Jesus have power and authority over our lives, we too will be like the first miracle Jesus performed. We will become the finest of Christians.

Jesus' miracles of healing, raising the dead, and having power over nature not only demonstrated His compassion and love, but showed all He was the true Son of God.

PRAYER: "Jesus did many other miracles before His followers that are not written in this book. But these are written so that you can believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you can have life through His name." AMEN. (John 20:30, 31)

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SCRIPTURE: John 2:13-25

FAVORITE VERSE: "Get these things out of here! Don't turn my Father's House into a market." (John 2:16 from the Living Bible)

COMMENTARY: [by Audrey]

This passage of scripture tells about Jesus at the annual Jewish Passover celebration in Jerusalem and how he drove the merchants and money changers out the Temple area - berating them for their actions and saying "Get these things out of here! Don't turn my Father's House into a market!"

To Jesus the Temple was a place to serve the Lord and to be treated with reverence - not as a marketplace for merchants and money changers for their own profit.

Even today, in making decisions on important matters, there are times when we, as human beings, make the mistake of acting on our own - not including God and abiding completely by the principles of Christian teaching and living. As the Bible tells us: to grow in our Christian life requires that we walk humbly and obediently with God knowing that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, as we read our Bibles, study your Word and pray to know your will, guide and direct us in our daily walk with you. Thank you for Jesus who shows us the way. May our hearts and minds be willing to following Him in obedience to you. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 3:1-21

FAVORITE VERSE: John 3:3 & John 3:16

COMMENTARY: [by LaVerne]

In John 3:1-21 my two favorite verses are John 3:3 and John 3:16. John 3:16 is perhaps one of the verses that is love and has inspired many. The first verse John 3:3 is "Unless you are born again you can never get into the Kingdom of God." When I was thirteen I gave my life to Christ. I was born again - What a Glorious Day that was. It is so hard at times to believe as in John 3:16 that God so loved me so much that He gave His only Son so that I can have eternal life. You, too, can have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn us but to save us. Ask and you shall receive the greatest gift God has to offer.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you for coming and being in my life. There are times when I'm not worthy of your love - but you love me in spite of my faults and short-comings. I thank you and praise you for your love. Help me to be worthy. In Your Name, I pray, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 3:22; John 4:2

COMMENTARY: [by Andy]

The story explains to us how God's people didn't accept his son's doings. John explains that we are not to judge who has authority. "A man can only receive what is given from Heaven." (Verse 27). John also tells us how God so loved his Son that he gave him everything in his hands. Whoever believes in him will have eternal life.

My favorite verse and message I would like to share with everyone is verse 30: "He must become greater; I must become less." I think that so many times we get caught up in our own lives that the Lord our God becomes diluted from our personal life. What I think we must remember is that we must focus on that. So when trials and tribulations come into our life, it's probably God's way of reminding us to live our life for Him not for us. What peace - fulfillment - we would have to live our life for Christ.

PRAYER: Dear God, forgive me for falling short of you. I ask that you will give me strength to let you take over my life 100% so that I may become a tool to others to show them your glory. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:12; Mark 1:14; Luke 4:14 and John 4:1-3

FAVORITE VERSE: "Jesus returns to Galilee in the power of the Spirit." (Luke 4:14)

COMMENTARY: [Bonnie]

In the scripture readings it talks about Jesus' return to Galilee. In Matthew, Mark and Luke it occurs after Jesus is baptized and tempted by Satan for forty days in the desert. In John it does not follow Jesus' baptism or temptation. In all texts, Jesus returns to Galilee to preach the Good News of salvation. My favorite though was found in Luke 4:14. "Jesus returns to Galilee in the power of the Spirit." Imagine that power He had after being baptized and coming off a forty day fast and being tempted by Satan! He probably radiated with the spirit upon Him! Wouldn't it be wonderful to radiate God's spirit to all we entail today!

PRAYER: Dear God, Shine on us with your Holy Spirit and help us to be a witness of His love to others. Truly you are an awesome God! Thank you Jesus. In His Name we pray, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 4:4-42

THOUGHT: "Lord erase my hurtful tapes and replace them with Your beauty!"

COMMENTARY: [Diane]

I love Jesus for not overlooking our sin, but for forgiving us regardless of our sin! Did you notice in this passage of scripture how loving Jesus allowed this woman at the well to come to her own conclusions about the condition of her life! Unlike many men she had probably met before Jesus really loved her and wanted her to have so much more than she was experiencing. Many of us are like that woman. We search for joy and happiness in all types of relationships and things, when in fact our hearts remain in turmoil until we finally find that which we have been seeking all along, a relationship with god through Jesus! When we finally find that which was missing in our lives, a tremendous change takes place in us! The Holy Spirit fills us and we begin to not only understand what it is we were missing, but begin to want to share the greatest thing that has ever happened to us with those around us, like this woman did! We sang a song at our last church that the chorus went: "Spring up oh well, within my soul, Spring up oh well, and make me whole! Spring up oh well, and give to me, That life abundantly!" That is what the woman at the well received when she met Jesus....and it's what He offers to You and me today!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please help us to drink from the well that gives us life eternal. Help us to have the living water springing forth from our hearts so that we may be Your witnesses to the world around us. Wrap us in Your love and fill us with Your Spirit! In Jesus Name. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 4:14-15; John 4:43-45

FAVORITE VERSE: "The Kingdom of God is near: Repent and believe the Good News."

COMMENTARY: [by Ruth]

The time has come for us to repent and believe the Good News. As we praise God for the good He has done in our lives. We also had faith and believed that God would send us someone to help us build up our Church again. What a Wonderful Bible Study. Once again we have a spirit-filled Church and a minister who touches us all.

We invite all of you who haven't been to Church to hear and see Pastor Shaver. And if you can't attend, ask for a tape and listen to him.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I pray all will feel the power of the Spirit now flowing through our Church and give praise to our Lord. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 4:46-54

FAVORITE VERSE: "Unless you see signs and wonders - you will not believe."

COMMENTARY: [by Connie]

This is what Jesus said to the royal official who begged Jesus to heal his son who was at the point of death. After the official asked Jesus again, Jesus replied, "Go, your son will live." Then as the official was going back, he met his slaves who told him his child was alive. He questioned them about what hour his son began to recover and realized it was the hour Jesus said to him, "Your son will live." Now the official and his whole family really believed.

Are we like the official? Do we profess to having faith but want to be shown signs and wonders? Many of you recall me telling about the time we were in Florida and received a call from our daughter in Pittsburgh telling us our son-in-law was going to be operated on in the next couple of days for cancer. So many things began racing through our minds about him - about his family - would he be o.k. - wondering about what had to be done before starting back home to be with them, etc., when I suddenly heard a voice say, "Oh, ye of little faith. Look up to the heavens. Know what I can do." Such a sense of calm and relief came over me at that moment! I knew Fred was going to be o.k. That was fifteen years ago. Praise the Lord!

PRAYER: Lord, help us to always know and remember that nothing is impossible with you in our hearts. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:13-16; Luke 4:16-31

THOUGHT: "The Kingdom of God has come!"

COMMENTARY: [by Flo]

Early one Saturday morning Jesus returned to Nazareth to speak in the synagogue. His friends and relatives and neighbors gathered in great excitement. They had watched him grow up into manhood. They knew his parents, Mary and Joseph. They were astonished at his air of authority as he went to the center of the room and was handed the Book of Isaiah and he read the ancient Book of Prophecy. "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord." (Isaiah 61:1-2) Jesus said "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." They said "Is this not Joseph's son? They were filled with wrath and rose up and thrust Him out of the city; and up a hill to a cliff so that they may throw him over. He slipped away in the midst of them. Jesus said "No prophet is accepted in his own country." I wonder what I would have done if I were there.

PRAYER: Immanuel (God With Us) as Isaiah proclaimed, thank you that you came and lived on earth. You died for my sins so that I could have eternal life. I'm forever grateful and I pray you will guide and direct me all the days of my life. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11

FAVORITE VERSE: "Come and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)

COMMENTARY: [Carol]

We as "fishers of men" are asked by Jesus to go out and teach others of the word of God. When Jesus says, "Come to me," it's a personal invitation to God. We need to have faith, belief, and practice God's commandments. Each one of us can reach out and light flames of hope, belief and Christianity within others. That's right! You have been invited by the greatest to do some real soul fishing. When we become full - much like Simon's net was of fish. Joy will reign in our hearts and our church treasury filled if we fish well to save others, remembering that we are not saved unless we believe, have faith, and follow God's commandments. Being a "fisher of men" is not about simply increasing attendance rolls or membership rolls because it's socially acceptable to belong - it's all about faith as the early disciples left their worldly items to go out and preach, much like John Wesley did in fields.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, may we have humbleness of compassion and the ability to forgive and lighten each others loads with the clarity of purpose. We can change ourselves to follow Jesus - becoming ourselves a beacon - loving all and realizing the starving and homeless are ours to care for. May we remove life's temptations to find the power to work for you and care for each other. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 4:23-25; Mark 1:35-39; Luke 4:42-44

FAVORITE VERSE: "I must preach the Good News in other places too, for that is why I was sent."

COMMENTARY: [by Marie]

While Jesus was in the cities in person and healed every disease, and releasing many from that power of demons, it is understandable that the people wanted Him to stay. But He stayed true to his purpose on earth. God sent Him to tell the Good News, and that is the command to us.

PRAYER: Our heavenly Father, help us to know our purpose here, and to do it. In Jesus' Name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 4:31-37

FAVORITE THOUGHT: Trust God and believe He will help.

COMMENTARY: [by Ann]

When Jesus went to the synagogue to speak they told him to leave. But he saw a man that had been possessed by demons. He helped him and they believed him.

In 1990 when I heard my daughter had to have a heart transplant and my granddaughter a bone marrow transplant, I asked God to please help me. With my prayer and the church they are both here after 10 years. Thanks for all the help.

PRAYER: Dear God, I want to thank you for what you have done for me and my children. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 8:14-17; Mark 1:29-34; Luke 4:38-41

FAVORITE VERSE: "He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases."

COMMENTARY: [by Susan]

In these scriptures we read of Jesus healing Simon Peter's mother-in-law afflicted with fever and also many others who were demon-possessed. We see Jesus as the great Physician. We have seen Jesus' healing power right here in our church and even more so now with the healing services. Through the power of prayer, laying on of hands, and being anointed, many have been healed through the power of Jesus Christ. As we go through this Lenten season, may we always remember the power and mercy of Jesus Christ as he "takes up our infirmities and carried our diseases."

PRAYER: Dear Father, we thank you for sending us your Son, Jesus Christ and for all the healing that He has delivered for His people. May we always remember to praise His name in all we do. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 8:2-4; Mark 1:40-45; Luke 5:12-16

FAVORITE VERSE: "If you are willing, you can make me clean." said the leper.

COMMENTARY: [Anonymous]

The leper had faith that Jesus could heal him. To touch a leper was unthinkable. People would not get within a stone throw of them. In fact they would throw stones if they came close. With their open sores, dirty bandages and smell lepers were the last persons anyone want to touch. Yet the first thing Christ did for this man was to touch him. Imagine what that scene must have looked like. Think how this man must have longed for someone to touch him, not stone or drive him away. Jesus could have healed him first and then touched him. But he recognized the lepers' need. Jesus stretched out His hand even before He spoke words of physical and spiritual healing. Jesus shows us the power of gentle compassion. Who do you have trouble touching because they are not attractive in any way? Compassion requires more than words; compassion requires action.

PRAYER: My compassionate Lord, I feel your loving and compassionate presence in my life. Help me to be loving and compassionate to others. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 9:2-8; Mark 2:1-12; Luke 5:17-26

THOUGHT: Jesus first met the man's deepest need - forgiveness.

COMMENTARY: [by Del]

The faith of the men carrying the paralytic was so strong that when they couldn't get in because of the crowd, they did not give up. They took him to the roof and through a hole they dug, they lowered him in front of the crowd in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith he said, "Friend, your sins are forgiven." Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God.

If we only had the faith these men had and not give up. We must have faith enough to heal our sins. We can see remarkable things today and every day if we just have the faith.

PRAYER: Our Heavenly Father, help us deepen our faithfulness to God. Let us live our faith in words and deeds. We ask these favors in your precious name. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 9:9; Mark 2:13-14; Luke 5:27-28

FAVORITE VERSE: "'Follow Me' Jesus said to him..."

COMMENTARY: [by Joe]

For nineteen centuries man has followed the word and teaching of Jesus Christ. Even though he only taught the gospel for about three years, His impact on man was overwhelming. Even the man who sent him to his death was not convinced of his guilt and punishment.

Could I follow such a person? Well, I pray that I have been ever since I accepted him as my savior. Following is not always easy these days. Because it may not be "IN" to do so. But "IN" only lasts a short time. Christ will last forever. So follow him forever and grow in his teaching. And your spiritual walk will only be magnified by his presence in your life.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I just pray I never lose your presence in my life and that others know how good it feels to have it. In Christ's name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: John 5

FAVORITE VERSE: John 5:28-29

COMMENTARY: [by Dee]

Jesus said that "all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth." But he made a very important distinction. He said some will rise from their graves to the resurrection of life eternal. Others who continue to sin will rise to judgement. We must accept Jesus' forgiveness in this life to enter heaven, but if we reject it, we will be separated from Christ.

If we believe in His Word, He will cleanse us from all our sin and shall have eternal life.

PRAYER: Thank you, God, for your forgiveness and help us to be living testimonies of Your grace to others. In Jesus' Name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 12:1-8; Mark 2:2-28; Luke 6:1-5

FAVORITE VERSE: "The Sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the Sabbath."

COMMENTARY: [by Warren]

The Sabbath was meant to be holy. But if you follow Jesus' teachings, I think He meant - everyday should be as the Sabbath is - kept holy. This means not only on our day of Sabbath or Sunday but on the other six days as well. In our modern society some people must work on Sunday, clergy included. Jesus and the disciples, while walking through the grainfields, ate heads of grain. That was a sin? They were hungry! Divide you day into three equal parts - eight hours, devotion to God- eight hours, usual occupation - and eight hours for refreshment and sleep and you will have a Sabbath every day of the week.

PRAYER: Father God, teach us to be holy every minute of our lives. When we veer from your teachings, show us how to get back on the right track. Thank you, God, for all the blessings you have given us. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 12:9-14; Mark 3:1-6 and Luke 6:6-11

FAVORITE VERSE: "For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

COMMENTARY: [by Kay]

Jesus healed the man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. The Pharisees saw this and said that this was unlawful on the Sabbath.

Jesus said if man is sick and hungry, it sure is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help me to be a true Christian in all I do and say. Thank you for all the blessings I have received. In Jesus' Name we pray. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Mark 3

FAVORITE VERSE: "There had been many healings that day and as a result, great numbers of people were crowded around him trying to touch him." (Mark 3:10)

COMMENTARY: [by Polli]

During his ministry, many people came to the Lord with a simple child-life faith believing they would receive their healing if they could just touch him. We need to experience this same faith in order to claim our healing, whether it be physically, emotionally or mentally. At this blessed Easter season, allow our awesome Lord to "touch you" in a very special way! I can guarantee you will be transformed!!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, We thank you for the many blessings we receive from you daily. Allow your spirit to flow through us to enable us to minister to others in need and touch their lives in a meaningful way. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made at Calvary! AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-19

FAVORITE VERSE: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Romans 13:9)

COMMENTARY: [by Kathryn]

Jesus came down from the mountain and commissions the twelve apostles to go to the nation Israel and preach the gospel of the kingdom. Jesus gave them power to perform miracles. These are the names of the twelve apostles: Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew, James and Thaddeus; Simon and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. The twelve apostles were commissioned to go to the nation Israel. We as believers are commissioned to get the word of God out to the world. It is a personal command to each believer - personally and privately.

We can be effective witnesses by our Word and by our actions - acts of kindness, caring, loyalty, a smile or kind word, non-criticizing attitude, showing support. Our Lord wants us to be saved. We need the leading of the Lord through the Holy Spirit. We need to permit the Holy Spirit to work through us. Acts 1:8 "...and you will be witnesses in Jerusalem (in our hometown) in all Judea (our community), Samaria (the people we don't associate with) and to the ends of the earth. The Lord's commandment is personal and we need to keep his commandments.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I am grateful for all you have done for me. Thank you. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:7 and Luke 6:20-49

FAVORITE VERSE: "Do unto others as you would have them do to you." (Luke 6:31)

COMMENTARY: [by Ruth]

Jesus tells us that we should not worry about being poor and hungry or being ridiculed because we love Him. He will always take care of us and we shall be greatly rewarded for following him.

He also tells us to love our enemies and be good to all. We should treat everyone the same, don't only love those who love you and do good to those who only do good to you. We need to treat everyone with love and respect and have compassion for all - just as Jesus did. This is hard for all of us because the human nature part of us always wants to get even.

Life is a hard struggle. We have many obstacles in our path and many times we stumble and fall. We need to build our lives on a strong foundation and that foundation is Jesus Christ. He is our rock and salvation and with him we will never fail.

Jesus tells us not to judge, condemn or find fault with anyone. We should closely examine our own lives before we condemn others. He also tells us "Do under to others as you would have them do unto you." What a wonderful message! Praise the Lord for His Word.

PRAYER: Thank you, Lord, for your many blessings and for your love. Guide us each day that we will follow the path that you have chosen for us. Help us to always keep our eyes on you so we will never lose our way. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10

COMMENTARY: [by Sue]

I believe God wants us to trust and have faith in Him and all things are possible.

In my faith I believe God is present with me every day and I look to him for guidance in every thing I do.

PRAYER: I pray that everyone will come to know Jesus. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 7:11-7

FAVORITE VERSE: "God has visited His people." (Luke 7:16)

COMMENTARY: [Anonymous]

As Jesus and many followers entered Nain, leaving Nain was a funeral procession. A widow walked behind the body of her only son. She was now alone with no one to love and care for. The thief had stolen her last most treasured companion.

When Jesus saw the mother, his heart began to break and his lips began to tighten. He glared at the angel of death, that hovered over the body of the young man. "Not this time, Satan. This young man is mine."

Jesus said to his the mother, "Don't Weep." He then came and opened the casket and he said, "Young man, I say to you, arise." Jesus presented the young man to his mother.

Fear came upon all and they gloried God, saying "A great prophet has risen up among us," and "God has visited His people."

If we need to repair a relationship, to demonstrate our faith, ask God to help you, believe He will, then step out and act.

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your love towards this mother. May we, his family as a Church do your will. Step out in faith to the people who need a kind word, special hug or just a loving smile. In Jesus' name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 11:2-19; Luke 7:18-35

FAVORITE VERSE: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you." (Matthew 11:10)

COMMENTARY: [by Julia]

God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus. He sent Jesus to prepare the way for us and we are challenged to prepare the way for others. God calls each of us to be a disciple, a servant using our God-given gifts and talents. We are challenged to let our light shine (the love of Jesus) as we serve God according to His will. Just as Jesus experienced a difficult ministry preaching and teaching to people filled with doubt and distrust, we also do not face an easy task. As we witness through words and deeds, people may or may not hear or see or comprehend. We may never see the fruits of our labors, but many people will be blessed and come to know Jesus because we were obedient through our witnessing and preparing the way for them to come to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.

PRAYER: Father, you have prepared our way through Jesus. Equip us to prepare the way for others, so that all may come to know salvation through Jesus. In His name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 11:20-30

COMMENTARY: [by Sara]

Bethsaida Chorazin, Caperneum - These cities are where Jesus did most of his miracles. Since they did not turn to God he denounced them, even condemning Caperneum to hell.

To me, this shows how human-like he was - hurt, angry - let them know what he thought of them!

Now Jesus turned to his Father and prayed. We too know that we can always turn to God and pray for guidance and spiritual strength to go forward. There are so very many apperneums in the world today hoping for miracles!

PRAYER: Come unto me all ye who are weary and heavy laden. I will give you rest. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 7:36-50

COMMENTARY: [by Martha]

When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. There a Centurion servant whom his master valued highly was sick and about to die. The Centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him asking him to come and heal his servant. When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him. "This man deserves to have you do this because he loves our nation and has our synagogue." So Jesus went with them.

PRAYER: Dear Precious Heavenly Father, We thank you for always being there for me in every area of our lives. You are truly loving and forgiving. Thank you Lord. In his loving name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 8:1-3

FAVORITE VERSE: "If you truly have love, you can see past everyone's shortcomings, looks and manners." (I Cor. 13:4-7)

COMMENTARY: [by Sara]

I believe God is with us today and every day. He will guide us if we but stop and listen through life and love. WE must have the faith to let him in. We must also support and encourage others to love, listen and have faith in God.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I pray that you will give me the love and understanding to encourage others by my words and actions. In Your Name, I Pray. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 12:22-37; Mark 3:19-30; Luke 11:14-26

FAVORITE VERSE: "Anyone who is not for me is against me; If he isn't helping me he is hurting my cause." (Luke 11:23)

COMMENTARY: [by Rick]

In my daily work I deal with many people, some of whom I know profess to be Christians. It is amazing to interact with these people, and without judging them, wonder how they can act in a manner that is contradictory to what they say they believe. In my own life I know my sins and shortcomings, and everyday I pray that God will work through me so that I can be a witness for him.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, You know me better than I know myself. Help me to be the best that I can be, to be a witness to your love and forgiveness. Forgive me for all my sins, make my thoughts and actions those that glorify you. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 12:38-45; Luke 11:16-36

FAVORITE VERSE: "If we are not with Jesus we are against him." (Luke 11:23)

COMMENTARY: [by Clint]

The Pharisees were seeking a sign from Jesus to prove if He was who he claimed to be. Jesus responds telling the story of Jonah and Nineveh and of the Queen of the South and Solomon. Do we, as they, not learn from history? Why do we need signs? Today people still want signs or new revelations. If you have been watching the news over the past year or two you have seen stories on the "Toronto Blessing" or "Brownsville Outpouring." Here at McMasters we still have some "see it to believe it" attitudes. In John 20:29 Jesus says "Blessed are those who believe but do not see." To operate in faith is what Jesus wants. Recognize Him for who He is not what He did. Let us get into God's Word so our faith can grow (Romans 10:17), and we can recognize and follow (obey) Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help us to grow in faith through your Holy Word. To keep our eyes, minds and heart focused on Jesus Christ for your glory. In Jesus' Name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Luke 11:37-54

FAVORITE VERSE: "And the Lord said unto him, 'Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the plates, but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.'" (Luke 11:39)

COMMENTARY: [by Kathryn]

The Jewish people had a strict law about washing their hands before eating; especially if they had been out in public. How many times as parents we have told our children to wash their hands after being outside. Sometimes we think too much about how our outside looks to other people. But what about our thoughts and the words we speak. Didn't God make the outside and the inside. When we speak of Jesus we need to tell our true feelings and not just say things that other people want to hear. Do you remember the story about the Emperor Who Had No Clothes? He wanted everyone to be fooled by saying he was wearing beautiful clothes but it took a little boy to be brave enough to tell the truth. The emperor was like the Pharisees who pretended to be holy. Jesus was like the little boy who told the embarrassing truth. We must always tell the truth about Jesus and speak the ruth about Him. Let's not just pretend to be Christians but live our true feelings and words about Him.

PRAYER: Dear Jesus, Guide us in the ways to be like you and not like the Pharisees. Let us not turn away from the truth. Help us to speak the truth about you and open the doors so others will get to know you by how we live. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 9:18-26; Mark 5:22-43; Luke 8:41-56

FAVORITE VERSE: "Take heart daughter, your faith has healed you."

COMMENTARY: [Sophie]

What an appropriate verse. As we age and many problems confront us physically, God is there for help. I cannot imagine not to call on the Lord for help. What a wonderful friend to have for life. Pain reminds us constantly we are not in charge, it is a challenge to keep us believing. God still cares. Filled with compassion Jesus reached out, touched the sick and healed. The Holy Spirit has given this powerful gift through our faith in Jesus Christ, Healer Divine.

PRAYER: Healing God, when I bring my hurt to you, help me to be assured that you meet me with healing comfort. I thank you for letting me know you personally as Lord of my life and Savior of my soul.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 10; Mark 6:6-13; Luke 9:1-6

FAVORITE VERSE: We should all be the best disciples and witnesses to as many people as we can.

COMMENTARY: [Lori]

Jesus trusted in his disciples to help him to do all his good work. So obviously he is trusting all of us to be his disciples and to witness even just to one person. We will be doing work for the Lord.

PRAYER: I pray that we all can be the best disciples possible for Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, I pray, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 17:22-23; Mark 9:30-32; Luke 9:43-45

FAVORITE VERSE: (Matthew 17:22-23)

COMMENTARY: [by Velma]

The Son of man, the most common title (Jesus gave to himself) is going to be betrayed into the hands of man. They will kill him and on the third day He will be raised to life. And the disciples were filled with grief.

I marvel at God's only perfect Son giving his live to save me and the world. I can imagine the disciples were filled with grief. But death to a Christian isn't a period but only a comma, as we will spend eternity with God. Death cannot separate those who are one in Christ. Amen.

I was thinking of Dallas Holmes' song "I'll Rise Again" and he tells us Jesus will rise again. Thank the Lord for that hope and even in our trials we will rise from them, too, with God's help.

PRAYER: Lord, at this beautiful Easter season, let us be mindful of your suffering for us and accept you in our heart. Thank you, Lord, for Eternal Life. In Jesus' precious name, AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-44; John 12:12-19

FAVORITE VERSE: Matthew 21:8; Mark 11:8

COMMENTARY: [by Don]

Both of the above verses tell us the same thing, that many were spreading their garments into the path of the Savior. Others used palm branches. In doing so, they proclaim that this was a notable, significant person, from their actions, we get the name, Palm Sunday. We call Jesus' entry in Jerusalem, a triumphal one, but is that really the case. The homecoming hero usually leads the procession on a large white horse. He is accompanied, enveloped and followed by the wealthy, prominent, and the important people of the community.

Jesus changes things in His triumphal entry. He is seated on a common donkey. His crowd is made up of the neglected, the forgotten, the hopeless and the helpless of Jerusalem. Neither of these facts connect this procession to that of a conquering military or political hero.

What made Jesus' entry different was the way He came, humbly, as a servant. He was greeted by the poor, who felt this man was uniquely different. This man drew attention, NOT to himself, but to God, the Creator and Sustainer of all life. Praise God for His great gift to us. When Jesus comes into our life, everything changes. Nothing can ever again be what it was. Praise God.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, open our lives, so that Jesus may enter, and help us to be members of His triumphal procession, for all of our lives. AMEN.

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SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:2-15; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18

THOUGHT: He Has Risen!

COMMENTARY: [Rev. Shaver]

There was a group of four-year-olds who were gathered in a Sunday School class and the teacher looked at the class and asked this question: "Does anyone know what today is?"

A little four-year-old girl held up her hand and said, "Yes, today is Palm Sunday."

The teacher exclaimed, "That's fantastic, that's wonderful. Now, does anyone know what next Sunday is?"

The same little girl held up her hand and said, "Yes, next Sunday is Easter Sunday."

Once again the teacher said, "That's fantastic. Now, does anyone know what makes next Sunday Easter?"

The same little girl responded and said, "Yes, next Sunday is Easter because Jesus rose from the grave," and before the teacher could congratulate her, she kept on talking and said, "but if he sees his shadow...he has to go back in for seven weeks."

There should be NO CONFUSION for YOU today! JESUS CHRIST REIGNS SUPREME! He is risen just as He said and we will gather today with millions of Christians across the globe to once again stand in firm alliance of what we know is true in our hearts. "You ask me how I know He lives....He lives within my heart!"

PRAYER: Thank You Lord for setting us FREE by sending Your Son Jesus Christ who died, was buried and on Easter Morning rose again! Hallelujah, our God reigns! AMEN.

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We, as United Methodist Christians and members of McMasters United Methodist Church, believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that through his death and resurrection, provided the only acceptable means of salvation for those who will believe. We are commanded by God and empowered by the Holy Spirit to walk always in the ways of the Lord, using our talents and gifts to serve God and others. We are challenged to grow as Christ's disciples through prayer, Bible study, joyful worship, tithing, fasting, and witnessing to God's love in Christ. As a church family, we are called and committed to minister to the needs of all God's creation, especially to the rejected, oppressed and misunderstood persons of our society and the world. We rejoice in Jesus' assurance that: "Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

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