Burning Question:
What is the most surprising thing you’ve ever walked into?
Morning Devotional:
I was walking my dog around the block yesterday when I happened to see a bird nest in a maple tree. The nest looked like it was in pristine condition from last year, but it was obviously unoccupied. As I was looking at it, I thought to myself, “I wonder if the same birds will find their way back to that spot again this year?” I know birds have specific migration patterns but will actually return to a place so precise? Not a clue, but the thought was entertaining.
The more I pondered that little nest, the more I thought about the story of Jesus’ resurrection. We read in Luke 24 of a group of women who went to Jesus’ tomb early in the morning, on the first day of the week. I have to wonder whether or not His tomb was in a location familiar to them. The traditions surrounding caring for His body were likely all too familiar. But that morning, they would come upon something so out of the ordinary and so incredible. The tomb where Jesus was laid was now empty. They were being told He had risen.
That’s where the resurrection story really gets me. The empty tomb means death doesn’t have the final say. Because Jesus rose, we have this amazing hope that says even though we face tough times and eventually death ourselves, it’s not the end of our story. There’s new life for us, all because of what Jesus did. It’s like that empty nest promising new life in the spring, but on a scale we can barely even imagine. Jesus’ resurrection is not just a historical fact; it’s a living hope that can get us through anything.
– Beth
Bible Quiz:
Question: What rare metal was the ark of the covenant overlaid with?
Answer: Gold (Exodus 25:10-11)
Storytime: Youth Trip!