New Life Assembly of God Church - Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

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How it Works
Simply follow the reading schedule and read daily passages from the Gospel of John. After you’ve read the passage, visit the website or social media post and read the reflection from the facilitator for that day. Within the social media posts, you can engage in moderated comments and discussion with others who are on the reading journey with you. It will be a great opportunity for participants to share insights and encouragement from God’s word with each other.

Daily Reflections
The heart and soul of this journey can be found in the daily reflections. We believe that God’s word can and does speak to us, both individually and corporately. Sometimes a particular verse, Bible character, or story leaps out to us from the pages of our Bible in very real and meaningful ways. Daily reflections are a way to capture those moments of significance for ourselves and then share with others. We encourage believers from all places along the spiritual path to write down their insights and inspirations in a reading journal. Seasoned believers, youth, new believers, those called to ministry – all have something meaningful to share.

A reflection may come in a wide range of expressions. It may be something very specific to one’s life. It may be connecting this passage with other truths in the Bible. It may be seeing something interesting about God’s nature and how He moves and works in the world. The most important thing about these daily reflections is that they help the reader to find meaning in God’s word that is relevant and applicable to his or her life.

A reflection doesn’t need to be long. It may be a sentence or two; two or three paragraphs are plenty. Take one big idea from the passage and share a thought or two about it. Sometimes the most powerful reflections are questions. Feel free to ask “what does this mean?” if you’d like. Or perhaps a particular story has special meaning to you because you see yourself in it. Testimonies are also a great way to reflect on God’s word.
As you take this 40-day journey with us, we need you to pick a day to be a facilitator and share your reflection with the other readers. We are all blessed and encouraged when we share together what God is saying to us through His word. Sign up for your day by contacting Pastor David or scheduling online here. You will receive confirmation of your chosen day with instructions about when and how to submit your reflections.
DAY 1: The testimony about Jesus
Alletha M. Barnett

The Genesis 1 account of the original creation starts out: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” in the step-by-step process recorded, followed by a number of statements: “And God made,” as well as “And God said.” Many people remember those introductory phrases but fail to recall the statement: “Let us make man in our image.”

The John 1 account states: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made...” In Christian theology Jesus Christ is referred to as The Word as the second person in the Holy Trinity. We refer to the Triune God (meaning three in one), with God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Greek nomenclature for “word” is “logos” – “logic”, or correct reasoning, is from this root word.

A man named John was sent by God to bear witness that Jesus was the true Light. He is referred to as John the Baptist. John declared that they who received that Light, by believing in Him, to them Jesus, the true Light, gave power (or the right) to become sons of God (or children of God). The most significant message in this passage is 1:11-13. When I was a child, we sang a song in children’s church called “Boys and Girls Assurance March” that included this stanza:

     For as many as received Him, then and there became
     Sons of God by simply trusting in His name;
     Chapter one, verse twelve of John
     is the ground we stand upon

In declaring the incarnation of Jesus (taking on a human form), John referred to Moses who gave the law, but that grace and truth came by Jesus Christ, the only begotten of the Father. John 1:14 says “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory...”
Day 2: The gathering of disciples
Charlie Umphress

One Man’s reflection

Jesus performed miracles. Disciples believed on Jesus’ name after seeing the miracles Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. Many others believed on Jesus when they saw the miracles Jesus performed in Jerusalem. However, it is very interesting to me that the named disciples did not seem to need to see the miracles of Jesus to believe who he was. Two (Andrew, and the 2nd one was probably John, the author of the book of John) believed because John the Baptist told them Jesus is the Son of God. Peter and Nathaneal believed on Jesus because of the testimony of Andrew and Philip respectively, that Jesus is the Son of God. In fact, the first 3 believed on Jesus so strongly they followed him home the first day they met him. Then the next morning they followed Jesus as he walked to Nazareth several days’ journey. Somewhere along the way Philip and Nathaneal were added to the group. Then they followed Jesus to Capernaum, stayed with Jesus a few days, and then followed him to Jerusalem for the Passover.

Yes, miracles draw people to God. This is twice stated clearly in this passage. (John 2:11, John 2:23) Many believe because of the signs and miracles, but those are not the memorable disciples. John 2:24 says, “But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them (the ones who were there for the miracles), because he knew all people.”(ESV) We remember some disciples because they believe Jesus is the Son of God, and are willing to follow Jesus because Jesus is the Son of God. Those were the ones Jesus taught, trained, and prepared.

Do I need to see the miracles of Jesus to believe he is the Son of God?
Day 3: The Encounter with Nicodemus
Juliana Barnett, Worship Pastor

Jesus is having a conversation with a high-ranking Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin named Nicodemus, who has a keen interest in the teachings of Jesus because they are perceived to be adversarial to the views of the Jewish leadership.

Although Jesus’ teaching is considered blasphemous, Nicodemus is so intrigued that he meets with Jesus to ask questions about his teaching. Jesus begins, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus knows that physically being “born again” is impossible. He even asks Jesus, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”

Nicodemus’ questions remind me of when David and I were raising our children. They were highly curious about things that did not make sense to them. Our son Caleb was the most curious. When he was four, I decided to write down every question he asked one afternoon. “Is this watch waterproof or water-resistant? Why don’t fish drown? How does Jesus live in our heart?” To a child’s mind, the world does not make sense sometimes. Could it be that just as a child is trying to understand the world, Nicodemus is asking questions about his own world - a belief system that is being challenged by Jesus’ teaching?

A rational mind sympathizes with the apparent lack of reason that Nicodemus sees in Jesus’ statement. Jesus answers Nicodemus’ question: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” A more literal translation suggests that Jesus is referring to the spiritual, purifying work of the Holy Spirit in the new birth of spiritual salvation.

The crux of Jesus’ plan and purpose is not a temporal, physical rebirth, but a new, spiritual birth that is eternal. Jesus summarizes His salvific plan for the world in one of the most-quoted scriptures, John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Day 4: John's confirmation of Jesus' baptism
Today's post is a reflection excerpted from an audio commentary from the late Pastor Chuck Smith, Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa CA. Pastor Chuck's story is told in the movie "Jesus Revolution" which opened in theaters yesterday.

[Commenting on John 3:28-30]

Beautiful humility of John and taking his rightful place. He said, “You bear witness that I testified of him. Now look: He’s the bridegroom, I’m just the best man. It’s the bridegroom who takes the bride; but his best man rejoices when he hears him, and herein I rejoice because of the bridegroom's voice. And my joy, therefore, is fulfilled.”

How? In bringing honor and glory to Jesus, “for he must increase and I must decrease.”

So say we all.
Day 5: The encounter with the Samaritan Woman
Jacob Duffin, Guest Teacher

A part that stuck out to me that relates to what we have been learning for the past few months is verses 32-33. So we’ve talked about this but I wanted to reiterate that if we have the idea that “Jesus always spoke very clearly and was easily understood”, we have a false impression about how Jesus often teaches. We see all throughout the scripture that Jesus’ words would confuse people; he sometimes did that on purpose. Why? Because it was expected of him as Messiah. Note one of the messianic prophecies of Jesus written in Isaiah 6:9-10, cross referenced in Mark 4:12: [Isa 6:9 ESV] 9 And he said, "Go, and say to this people: "'Keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep on seeing, but do not perceive.'"

So in summary, remember that the words of Jesus and the Bible are not always easily understood and it’s going to take some work and some thought. Most things that are important are going to take work and thought, and the word of God is no different!
Day 6: Two healings and two responses to them
Lance Rummel

Isn’t it interesting, the contrast between these next two miracles…

A royal official, whose son has become deathly ill, is made aware that Jesus is returning to Galilee. Knowing of Jesus’ miracle turning water into wine, and of the miracles He performed while in Jerusalem, the man believed that Jesus could heal his son. He sought Jesus out, focusing on Jesus as the one who could heal his son. He had the resources to be able to go find Jesus. He had servants to care for his house and family while he was gone, and probably others who traveled with him. When Jesus spoke to him and told him his son would live, he believed Jesus’ words and returned home. His son was healed, just as Jesus told him.

Then we see a man who had been laid up with a crippling disease for 38 years, staying at the pool of Bethesda. This day started just as any other day for him. He may not have been aware of the miracles that Jesus had performed. He likely had never heard the name of Jesus, and clearly if he had heard of Jesus, he did not know who Jesus was when facing him at the pool that day. He certainly had not sought Jesus out for his healing, yet Jesus healed him. He was unsuspecting, undeserving, and unknowing, but healed on that day nonetheless.

We have a wealthy man with authority, and another man with likely not a penny to his name and no one to help him into the pool. One seeks Jesus out; another is sought out by Jesus. One is believing and ready for his miracle, the other knows his miracle is not coming.
Day 7: Jesus' equality with God
Nancy Philip, Youth Pastor

Jewish leaders did not accept Jesus as the Son of God, and in John 5:17-30, Jesus is stating that He is the Son of God. Jesus continues to explain who God is and how He, Jesus, is the Son of God and how He is connected to God. Jesus states His role as the Son of God and knows His true purpose.

How many times do we question ourselves whether or not we are doing what we are called to do? Every teenager is asked this one question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Finding that specific calling in your life includes trial and error, and continuous prayer to keep an open eye and heart on this journey called life. When you find that calling, you are opening the door to allow God to join you on your journey and guide you into the beautiful blessings that He desires for you to have.

Jesus knew who He was and what His purpose was. He said it loud and proud that He is the Son of God even when Jewish leaders mocked, ridiculed, and persecuted Him. Jesus stood on the firm foundation that God provided Him. Just as Jesus stood firm on solid ground, so should we. We need to be open to the opportunity of blessings that God has for our lives. God will always be there to catch us when we fall, but we should remember to dust ourselves off and continue on the path God has prepared for us.

"And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory..." ~Romans 8:17
Day 8: Jesus' affirmation of the testimony of others
Jennifer Rummel

The Jewish leaders were accusing Jesus of blasphemy because He had spoken of God as His Father, making Himself equal to God. Jesus explains to the religious leaders that He is not guilty of blasphemy if He IS God. Jesus then supports His claim with trustworthy testimonies. He doesn’t need this proof but He does want others to see and understand.

He mentions John the Baptist, who testified that he was sent to prepare the way for the Messiah. Then there is the testimony of Jesus’ works, the works that “bear witness” to the very heart of God. God, the Father, spoke from heaven saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Jesus tells the leaders that the scriptures that they have studied all their lives point to Him. Ironically, they’ve studied the scriptures diligently but never saw Jesus in them.

Jesus presents testimony and witnesses to refute the charge of blasphemy. He proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that He is the Son of God. Would you be able to present enough testimony and witnesses to convince others that you are a Child of the King? And if you aren’t a believer, what is keeping you from trusting Christ? Jesus wants us to not only believe the evidence, He wants us to embrace it and to trust it and follow Him.
Day 9: Feeding 5,000; walking on water
Mariana Royer

Setting: Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee and went up to the mountain with His disciples. People were following Jesus because of His healing miracles and they wanted to hear/see more. The Passover was near and a huge crowd was coming toward Jesus. This crowd was estimated to be 5,000 men, plus women and children.

Problem: The people had traveled to hear Jesus and they were hungry. Since the disciples did not travel with backpacks of food, they were concerned about how these people would get fed. The disciples made Jesus aware of the problem and Jesus decided to give a pop quiz. Why? God tests us because he wants us to apply spiritual truth to the challenges we face. Jesus asked Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that all these may eat?” Instead of answering the question, Philip shared how much money they would need to get the food. Jesus was not asking for cost, but where food would come from. Why is it that we tend to answer a problem with a physical solution and not a spiritual one?

Solution: On the other hand, Andrew told Jesus that there was a boy with 5 loaves and 2 fish. This is a great example on how the Lord expects us to use what we have and have faith that Jesus will provide the rest. John 6:11 states “Then Jesus took the loaves, and after giving thanks he distributed them to those who were seated – so also with the fish, as much as they wanted.” Jesus thanked God for what was not nearly enough; He took insufficiency, thanked God for it, and provided more than enough. In everything we are to give thanks.

Lesson: Don’t let your lack of resources limit what God can do, offer thanksgiving in the midst of your insufficiency. Everyone seated that day ate until they were full, in addition, Jesus had the disciples collect the leftovers. Yes, there were leftovers. Why? Because He is El Shaddai, the God of “more than enough.” There were twelve baskets of food left over, each a reminder of God’s supernatural provision for each disciple.
Day 10: The Bread of Life
Naomi Philip

Context: Jesus just fed over 5,000 people with only two fish and five loaves of bread. A few days after this event the people were now looking for Jesus. He is in Capernaum speaking with some of the followers he had fed.

Lesson: When Jesus fed as many people as he did with only so little food, the crowd was amazed. We have to remember that getting food back then was not as accessible as we have it now. As a result of this, when they found a source of food they latched onto it. Basically the crowd ditched all their ways of finding food to follow Jesus’s way.

Remember the Word of God is your food source. It is like no other. It is unmatchable. The more you read the more you latch onto His way and not your own. There is no limit to his food source. He is forever eternal. Latch on to His word.
Day 11: Accepting or rejecting the Bread of Life
Danielle Royer

I interpret this passage as a foreshadowing of the last supper. It is always so incredible to me when a work of Jesus has scriptural reference prior to its occurrence. I can only imagine how confusing his words were for those who heard them without the context we have now. In today’s day and age, it underscores the importance of the last supper and personally strengthens the meaning and relevance of partaking of communion with our church body. There are not many practices that have continued since the inception of the church, so the continued emphasis placed on taking communion is all the more supported by this passage. It is truly a special privilege to have the opportunity to put biblical tradition into my personal life and to continue to accept the bread of life.
Day 12: Disciples believe; brothers doubt
Kyli Leftwich, Childrens Ministries Director

The gospel in John 6:60-7:9 is a deep representation that people need faith for them to survive. The gospel's message is no different from our situation today. We are in division and while some practice their faith, there are also those who don't. John 6 & 7 help us understand that the Savior will not physically dwell in us, but rather His divine influence will remain with us to help us become more like Him and the Heavenly Father.
Day 13: Accepting or rejecting Jesus' teaching
Sandy Finnegan

This passage of scripture reflects the most important and life-changing decision that is still essential today. Whether we accept or reject the teaching of Jesus has eternal reward or everlasting consequence. The Jews were amazed at His teaching with such knowledge of the scriptures without a formal education. Jesus' teaching was about who He is and how God has sent Him for this crucial and most important plan of salvation for everyone who will believe.

It must have been difficult for Jesus to teach, having to balance how to tell the truth without being killed for blasphemy. He traveled in secret to the Festival of Tabernacles and waited until mid-week to appear in the Temple court. Widespread whispering about Him came from the people. Some said "He is a good man." Others said "no, he deceives the people." No one would say anything boldly in public for fear of the leaders. Still today, because of societal pressures people are often afraid to speak the truth for fear of the response.

It is amazing how the Pharisees kept using Moses’ law against Jesus. They didn’t understand because of self-imposed spiritual blind eyes that kept them from seeing the spiritual things that Jesus was teaching. Some could not understand because of hard hearts, even declaring Jesus was demon-possessed.

I am impressed how Jesus used wisdom when he told them that anyone who testifies about himself does so for his personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sends him is a man of truth and there is nothing false in him. Jesus was saying "do the will of God and you will know if it comes from God or from me."

In John 7:24 Jesus says "stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly." We are not to judge by human standards but allow the Holy Spirit to lead us to truth and understanding. Then we will be able to make this life changing-decision whether to accept or reject who Jesus is. I believe Jesus is The Lamb of God, Alpha and Omega, Immanuel, King of Kings, Son of the Living God, our Savior and Redeemer, Prince of Peace, the Word, the Fountain of Living Waters, the Way the Truth and the Life.
Day 14: Pharisees challenges to Jesus
Nancy Ceja

The story begins with Jews listening to Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem (the capital city with educated and informed people). The people were discussing among themselves what they knew about Jesus. They were divided on who He was: an imposter, a prophet, or the Christ? They knew Jesus was wanted by the authorities, that He was from Galilee, and that He had done a large number of miracles. Also, they knew that Christ should come out of Bethlehem and from the seed of David. As the Pharisees heard all of this, they got enraged and sent the temple guards to arrest Jesus.

What amazes me is the arrogance of the leaders, thinking they know the law and, therefore, they have no need to check the records. The records would reveal that Jesus was from Bethlehem, and both parents were from the seed of David. The leaders could have helped bring those in doubt to believe in Jesus. Why did the leaders not approach Jesus and inquire about his background, family, and his birth to compare with the knowledge they already had?

I encourage all of us (starting with me) to not be set in our ways, thinking we know the Word, and not spending time with Jesus. Let us read the Word, spend time with Jesus through prayer, and with other believers continue to learn about Him and his Word, to ask him those questions we have.
Day 15: The woman caught in adultery
David Barnett, Lead Pastor

The story of the woman caught in adultery is a beautiful example of forgiveness and confronting hypocrisy. But there is an important question we need to consider first before we engage this story: does this passage belong in the Bible?

This question may seem quite unusual, but actually it has been asked since the earliest days of the Church. Why is it in question? Very simply, it is not found in many of the earliest manuscripts of John's gospel. When it is included, it may be recorded in different places in John, and sometimes even inserted into the Gospel of Luke. Depending which English translation you read, you will likely find a note explaining this uncertainty, and/or find the passage in brackets.

In light of these discrepancies, the first question biblical scholars try to answer is "from where did this story come?" As we know, there were many stories about Jesus circulating among 1st Century believers that were not recorded in the New Testament. The very last verse of John's gospel tells us so: "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:25)

It appears that this story might have been one of these stories, and it was particularly well-known and retold in the early Church. There are references to it in the writings of the Church fathers as early as AD 100. But some church fathers noted that it wasn't included in every manuscript. The story was codified in John's gospel by Jerome, who included it when he translated the New Testament into Latin around AD 385.

Given these circumstances, how should we engage this story? I think modern translators have taken a sensible approach. Clearly, there are legitimate issues concerning the origin of the passage and whether it passes the test for being authoritative. However, it also has an enduring and extensive presence of the story throughout Church history. The story is wholly consistent with the rest of the New Testament witness of Jesus. Including it in the Bible, but also noting the issue, makes sense.
Day 16: Many believe
[Today's reflection is from the Reverend Frederick Brotherton Meyer, a friend and contemporary of Reverend Dwight Moody.]

There is much for us to learn here. We choose for ourselves aims and ends too subsidiary, too low. The conversion of the unsaved, the building up of the Church, the extension of the kingdom of God, are in themselves worthy and glorious objects; but they are not the very highest. They do not include it, though it includes them; as the planet does not include the sun, but the sun it. Aim at the planet, you miss the sun; aim at the sun, and you include the planet. There is a purpose, foreshadowed in the life of Jesus, the sweep of which is so wide, the march of which is so majestic, the depth of which is so infinite, as to comprehend all other motives, and to be worthy of an endeavour which, though we approach towards it through infinite ages, must yet for ever be far beyond us. And this is the intention, that God may be pleased and glorified and magnified in our bodies, whether by life or death (Phil. i. 20).

- Frederick Brotherton Meyer, THE LIFE AND LIGHT OF MEN: EXPOSITIONS OF JOHN I.— XII, p. 168
Day 17: Who is your father?
Jonas Ceja

When the word of God is read or spoken, revelation and understanding are often dependent on the receiver's personal communion with God or lack thereof. While Jesus walked this earth, He told his disciples, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free." Those were straightforward words to his true believers; it was a revelation of the freedom they would experience, free from the bondage of sin and death.

However, to unbelievers, those who did not have a relationship with Jesus, the words became words of contention, fighting, and insult. Unbelievers quickly claimed they had not been enslaved and promptly pointed out their lineage to Abraham to justify themselves. They claimed they had not been born to fornication and sin; thus, there was nothing to free them from. In other words, "we do not want or need the freedom you are offering; we are saved already." This is a condition many of us have been in at one point in our lives before receiving Jesus as our Lord and Savior and one we must not fall back into.

The Pharisees then claimed God was their Father, to which Jesus responds by telling them about their real father (vv.42-44). Once again, Jesus spoke with clear words. Notice that Jesus was speaking with people who "thought" they knew the truth, people who "thought" they were walking a righteous path. Instead, he said their Father was the devil.

How many times have we met people who claim to know Jesus, but their personal life doesn't reflect that? How many people are deceiving themselves, claiming publicly to know Jesus but living a secret life of sin? How often have we rejected the correction God sent us through a parent, a preacher, or another believer who attempted to correct our behavior?

We must seek out God's truth and worship him as he is truly worthy -- that we may be blameless through his precious blood because we do not stand a chance without him. As his children, we must obey his voice, abide in his word, and know the truth many will never know. Only through Jesus can we truly be children of the Most High God, and he can be our Father.
Day 18: Healing the blind man
Leanna Villalobos

Jesus came down to the world to save and to heal his children: also, to fulfill prophecy. John chapter 9 is the sixth miracle documented in scripture in John. Almost every aspect of this story has a spiritual implication. The important detail of this account is that man is born blind spiritually, lacking saving faith in God.

In all scripture only Jesus is seen healing the blind. It’s also important to notice that the man was born blind. He could never regain something he has never lost. Jesus gave the blind man an ability that he never had. This this gives us proof the purpose of God in bringing us saving by faith and salvation by grace. The blind man was able to see the light.
Day 19: The sheep know his voice
Erica Avila

Jesus has given sight to a man who was born blind. The Pharisees, who had always been able to physically see, had spiritual blindness. But the blind man, who just received his sight, believed right after Jesus told him he was the Son of Man.

Many things in this world provide temporary comfort but blind us from the Truth and lead us astray. As someone who was blinded by worldly "truths", I can now testify that I see His goodness firsthand. I had to hit "rock bottom" twice to finally have my eyes opened and know that I am complete in Him. When I look back on those experiences, I see Jesus was there all along; I just had to choose Him over things that would ultimately destroy me and my family. I see now how He didn't give up on me, even when I was giving up on Him.

In John 9:40, the Pharisees ask Jesus if He is saying they are blind, too. His response reminds me of how the first time I hit rock bottom led me to give my life to Jesus, but the second time, although I knew Him and what He could do, I chose to look another way. That was spiritual suicide: choosing death over life when I knew He was the Truth. It is a dangerous position to be in. If you find yourself there, ask God to open your eyes–pray, read His Word, confide in believers, seek a mentor–just don't allow the thief (Satan, sin) to steal and kill and destroy.

In John 10, Jesus explains that He is the good shepherd that lays down his life for His flock, which would soon happen on the cross. His flock follow Him and only Him because they know His voice. I know my Father's voice. I will never follow someone or something else. As He says in 10:5, "...they will never follow a stranger." Next, Jesus says that He is the gate that leads to pasture: lush, green grass that sheep feed on. It's not dry and dead; it's living. Jesus gives us life to the fullest while the wolf attacks the flock and the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy.

I have a question about John 10:12. Who is the hired hand? I think the hired hand is the world or man, so Jesus is illustrating the point that He is the only one who will truly protect us, we can't rely solely on the world or man.
Day 20: Unity with the Father
Eric Avila

In this passage, Jesus is in Jerusalem during the Festival of Dedication (Hanukkah). As He is walking, many people come up and surround Him. Suddenly they begin questioning Him, asking “Are you the Messiah? Are you the Messiah?” Jesus responds by saying “I have already told you, and you don't believe me.” He follows this by explaining that He knows His believers, and He gives them eternal life.

The people respond by picking up stones and preparing to stone Jesus, claiming He is being blasphemous for saying He is the Son of Man. Jesus explains that they should believe Him because of the miraculous works He has done, and that the Father has sent Him into the world. Once again the people retaliate and try to arrest him, but Jesus gets away and goes near the Jordan River. Many follow Him, saying “everything [John] said about this man has come true,” and they believed in Him.

To me this passage describes 3 kinds of people when Jesus arrived in Jerusalem:

* Those who see Him but do not believe: someone who instantly begins with questioning and needing proof or signs to believe what is right in front of them;

* Those who try to combat and push away Jesus. In the passage we see it literally, as they pick up stones, but today it could be those who refuse to nurture a relationship with their heavenly Father; and finally,

* Those who choose to steadfastly believe in Him and follow Him wherever He goes.

In your daily life and your walk with Jesus, will you push Jesus out of your life and choose to live by this world? Or question Jesus and deny His power and love He has for you unless He shows you proof or signs? Or lastly, will you seek Jesus at all costs, and build your life on Him?
Day 21: The death of Lazarus
Steve Royer

When I read about relationships in the Bible, I am encouraged by Jesus’ clear expression of love for His followers. As a follower of Jesus, I can be confident in His love for me as well. I am also encouraged by the assurances that He gave His followers.

Jesus informed His disciples that Lazarus’ illness would not lead to death: "But when Jesus heard it he said, 'This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.'” I believe the disciples were concerned that Jesus did not go to Lazarus right away instead of staying two more days where He was, but they may not have been insistent after Jesus said the illness would not lead to death.

However, I imagine that the disciples and Lazarus’ sisters were hurt and very confused when Jesus plainly stated that “Lazarus has died.” They remained confused when Jesus shared that He was glad He was not there when Lazarus died. They did not remember what Jesus shared earlier that this illness would not lead to death and that it was for the glory of God.

Instead of thinking, "Wow, Jesus, this is an amazing opportunity to give God glory – what are you going to do?", they were overcome with other thoughts. "So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with him.'” Lazarus’ sister Martha truly believed that Jesus was the Christ and in the resurrection: "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?' She said to him, 'Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.'” She believed in her future with Christ, but could not see the outcome of the promise for the moment that would bring glory to God.

When we believe in God and His Word, we need to believe all of it. God loves us and keeps His promises even when the immediate circumstances around us seem dire; we should remember that it is all for His glory. With every one of life’s storms that I weather, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness.
Day 22: Raising Lazarus
Ben Kapuya

Jesus had been to Bethany before. As the scriptures report, Bethany is close to Jerusalem. My last trip was in the holy land of Israel. Our guide showed us how Jerusalem faces the Mount of Olives, and Bethany is on the opposite slope of the mountain. This place was so familiar to Jesus because Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha were His close friends.

When Lazarus was sick, they needed help and they naturally called for Jesus to come. They knew Jesus had power to heal. But Jesus did not show up. He finally arrived four days after Lazarus had died. Jesus’ best friend was already buried. Can you imagine how Mary and Martha were disappointed and hopeless? Their friend they needed the most in this crucial moment had not come in time, despite the call they made with insistence. Jesus got the blame.

We are all like that. We blame Jesus when things seem desperate. But we do not bind Jesus to our timing; instead, Jesus just applied His plan. They went to the tomb. Jesus called Lazarus by his name. Why? Our guide in Israel told us he called Lazarus by his name to avoid any confusion because all the dead people could have been raised. Lazarus came out with his hands and feet bound with linen strips. How could it possible, considering how deep is the tomb? Six meters underground, and stairs. Nothing can stop Jesus’ order.

People or circumstances may try to immobilize us, but once Jesus decides, His power will move us. Remember Jesus’ timing is always the best. Death is nothing in front of Him.
Day 23: Plotting to kill Jesus; Mary anoints Jesus
Pastor David

This passage begins in earnest John’s account of the conspiracy among the Jewish leadership to execute Jesus. As with many political conspiracies, the plot includes multiple elements. First we meet Caiaphas, the High Priest. John introduces him in Chapter 11, a foreshadowing of the significant role he would play in Chapter 18.

It is quite interesting that John calls special attention to the unintended prophetic significance of Caiaphas’ choice of words. Surely Caiaphas meant them as a means of persuasion to convince others that Jesus’ arrest and execution would be to their advantage. But unwittingly, he declared that Jesus’ death would redeem all of Israel and all the children of God (11:51-52).

But the plot went deeper, for not only did the Jewish leadership want to silence Jesus’ teachings and stop His miracle-working, they also wanted to erase the evidence of His power that had already been demonstrated. We see in 12:10-11 that the Jews wanted to kill Lazarus too, because he was a living, breathing, walking testimony of Jesus’ divine power.

It is also interesting to me that, in the first verses of Chapter 12, we have the beautiful picture of Mary’s anointing of Jesus contrasted with the greed and deception of Judas. Both these people and their actions in this instance foreshadow what will soon follow as Judas betrays Jesus, the Romans crucify Him, and Mary heads for His tomb to anoint Him in death.
Day 24: The triumphal entry
New Life Media Administrator

This passage is commonly referred to as the Triumphal Entry, and is customarily celebrated on Palm Sunday (the Sunday before Easter):

John cites a prophecy from Zechariah 9:9: "So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!' And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, 'Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!'" John 12:13-15 ESV

This Sunday, March 26, Pastor David will begin his Easter sermon series "Finished" and will be looking in depth at this passage. Why do you think Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey rather than on a horse?
Day 25: Belief and disbelief
New Life Media Administrator

This passage draws a line of distinction between those who believe and those who do not. A key idea is about those who believe, but refused to confess it out of fear of the consequences: "for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God." John 12:43 ESV

This passage will be the text for Pastor David's April 2 sermon in the "Finished" series.
Day 26: Jesus' humility and Judas' betrayal
New Life Media Administrator

One of the most interesting parts of this passage centers around the practice of footwashing. Footwashing was a common hygiene practice in the ancient Near East. Because of the dusty roads and open footwear, the washing of one's feet was almost as routine as the washing of one's hands. It became known as an act of service to and humility toward others. Scriptures mention the following instances of footwashing in addition to Jesus' washing the disciples feet in John 13:

* travelers washing their own feet. Gen. 18:4; 19:2; Judges 19:21
* women washing feet as an act of service. 1 Sam. 25:40-41 (Abigail); 1 Tim. 5:10 (widows)
* women washing Jesus' feet. John 12:3-8 (Mary of Bethany); Luke 7:36-50 (sinful woman with alabaster box)

The recently-released movie "Jesus Revolution" includes a scene in which Pastor Chuck Smith washes the feet of young people ("Hippies") as they enter the church building.
Day 27: Jesus comforts his disciples
Nino Avila

Jesus demonstrates in John 13:31-35 that He makes a way for us to have hope in our purpose. He has gone before us and created the way we can follow: not by a path of our choosing, but by the one He created for us. Jesus had known His entire life that He would be glorified through the Father in Him, and that as Himself being the Son of Man, so would mankind have an opportunity to also be glorified by He who lives in us as He was.

He gave us but one commandment as He left his disciples behind: "Love one another as I have loved you." In this way all people would know we are His disciples: through love. We learn that choosing to love comes from Jesus because He loved us first. By His example and through His sacrifice we learn that He provided the path that we can follow.

In John 14:1- 14 I see that He is the Way and the Truth and the Life. Any time someone gives you an invitation it is done so with the intention that they expect your presence. A place has been reserved for you specifically, a designated chair with even a card made with your name on it so you know that seat is for you. Jesus himself has gone ahead and called you by name to an invitation to be with Him and the Father.

Just as we come closer and closer in our faith in Jesus, we come closer and closer to the Father. As we grow closer still, Jesus tells us that in His name we will do greater works because He goes to the Father. What good work we do in His name is also glorified in the name of the Father. In knowing God's will for our lives, we can glorify Jesus and the Father in our heart. When our day comes to follow where Jesus has prepared our place, we may have waited for this day to come, but Jesus has been waiting our whole lives for this day to call us by name. If your life has ever needed rest or if you have searched for peace, accept the invitation, answer the call and receive the love that Jesus is offering today.
Day 28: The Holy Spirit as Helper
Guy Gigundjueto

The Holy Spirit helps us to go above and beyond loving people in the church, loving the church, or loving the life of the church by ourselves becoming the living church. As the scripture states in Corinthians 6:19, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is a helper since He is with us and in us. He helps us to worship God in God’s way because He is the one able to change the worship time as God was worshiping Himself through us.

As Christians we have to know the Holy Spirit, start building a relationship with Him, and let Him have control of our life.

The Holy Spirit is a helper because:

- He is the Comforter,

- He is the Spirit of Truth,

- He dwells with us and in us,

- He prevents us from feeling orphaned,

- He brings the assurance that we belong to the Father,

- He is sent by the Father in the name of Jesus for us,

- He teaches us everything and will remind us of the words of Jesus, and

- He allows us to become the dwelling place of God.
Day 29: Being hated
Brittany Umphress, Missionary

I want to highlight three “nuggets” in this passage:

1. Jesus gives us this wonderful example of His being the True Vine and His Father being the vinedresser. He tells us to abide: to remain; continue; stay; dwell.

Abiding in Jesus isn’t just a visit: it’s a deliberate decision to dwell IN His presence. We should live our entire lives in His presence, not just when it’s convenient. Every word we speak, interaction with others, and moment of our day should be done while abiding in the presence of Jesus. How would things change if we were less like the world and more like Jesus? Let’s make it a point to abide in Him!

2. Jesus gives His commandment to “love one another as I have loved you.” He then says “greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

I’m not sure I’d be willing to die for my friends, would you? Much less give the life of my only son for my enemies. Our flesh is weak, even if our spirit is willing. Yet this is exactly what God the Father did for us. He allowed His only Son, Jesus, to die for us while we were still sinners, enemies of God. Jesus loved us enough to die in our place so that one day we can live forever in God’s presence. Can you imagine standing in the presence of our Maker on that day?

3. Jesus said in verse 16 that we did not choose Him, He chose us. He appointed us to “go and bear fruit that your fruit should abide...” Remember what abide means? It’s not fleeting fruit, it’s abiding fruit. When we abide in Jesus and our fruit abides in us, our desires become more like His desires. We will be less concerned with our fleshly desires. Our thoughts, actions, and words will reflect that.

When you live for the Lord and have abiding fruit, don’t be discouraged when you are hated by the world. Jesus tells us that the world hated Him before it hated us. It rejected not only Him, but His Father who sent Him. We have been rescued out of the world, and the world will despise us because we are different. Don’t be discouraged, we are not left to face the world alone. Jesus promised a Helper to strengthen us through this journey of life: The Holy Spirit.
Day 30: The Help of the Holy Spirit
Jazmine Atkinson, Media Pastor

To understand the help of the Holy Spirit from this passage you must also understand the hatred from the world and why Jesus sent Him to us. The whole passage before (John 15:18-25, which is also part of the reading from yesterday), is about how people will reject us for loving God. For some reason there are people in this world who don’t accept Jesus and what He has done for us and probably never will. That hatred from the world is dark, which means it will never accept the light within us without genuine life-change that comes from the help of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit for a multitude of reasons, He acts as a direct line to the ears and mouth of God when we pray and when He responds to us. The Holy Spirit of truth has been given to us to share with other people. John 16:1-15 tells us about the work of the Holy Spirit- what His job actually is. The Holy Spirit is God’s voice within us. He helps to comfort and guide us out of sin and temptation, convict us when we have done something displeasing to God and to help us reach the lost people of the world. He also guides us in the use of our gifts and talents that we have received from God. The scriptures for today are Jesus’ direct words to the disciples at the Final Passover meal before He was betrayed, arrested and crucified to pay the price for our sin so that one day we can be united with Him in heaven as it is written in John 3:16.
Day 31: Death, resurrection, and triumph
David W Barnett, Lead Pastor

When we read this passage, it seems a bit confusing. Why was Jesus speaking in riddles to His disciples? It helps if we understand that there is a long tradition in Judaism of speaking in parables, riddles, and mysteries. A direct example of this is in Matthew Chapter 13, where Jesus quotes from the prophet Isaiah as an explanation:

10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” 11 And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says: ‘You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.’ 15 For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them. 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

I think a key for understanding is found in verses 23-28. For the first time, Jesus instructs the disciples that they now have direct petition with God the Father; they no longer will ask for help from Jesus, but rather will ask the Father in Jesus’ name. The unique and unified relationship of Jesus Christ as the only begotten Son of the Father, being one with the Father, is now clear. Jesus no longer needs to speak to His followers in riddles. He has now been fully revealed as being with God, and being God (see John 1:1).
Day 32: Christ's prayer
Day 33: Jesus' arrest
Gabriela Royer
Day 34: Jesus' trials before the Jews
Day 35: Jesus' first trial before Pilate
Day 36: Jesus' second trial before the Pilate
Day 37: The crucifixion
Day 38: The burial and empty tomb
Nino Avila
Day 39: Jesus appears to Mary and the disciples
Day 40: Jesus on the shore of Galilee