Theme of the Day: Joy Marches Victorious Over Circumstance
If the world struggles to understand the kind of selfless love Jesus embodied and commanded, it will fail to understand the kind of joy he promises even more so. According to conventional wisdom, joy is a direct result of circumstance. Jesus, however, offers a far superior joy. Easter and what precedes it reveals this. Sin, death, shame and defeat went into Jesus’ tomb. Forgiveness, life, glory and victory came out. Having seen how God works in the case of Jesus gives confidence he will do the same for us.
John 16:16-24
Acts 14:8-22
Revelation 21:21-27
Psalm 65
919 – Blessed Jesus, at Your Word
443 – Awake, My Heart, with Gladness
557 – Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice
446 – Jesus Christ, My Sure Defense
Prayer of the Day: O God, you are the giver of everything good. Inspire us, your humble servants, to long for what is right and, through your gracious guidance, accomplish it to your glory; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Alleluia.