We celebrate Palm Sunday and Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem for Passover week. Traditionally, Palm Sunday kicks off Holy Week, which are the days leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. These events shaped history and transformed lives forever!
Notes 📓✏️:
Heart Is Everything.
Luke 2:12 (NIV): “This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Matthew 21:6-11(NIV): “They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed shouted,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!”
“Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”
The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
John 1:29b (NIV): “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
To God, heart is everything.
John 21:15-17 (NIV): “When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.” Jesus said, “Take care of My sheep.”
The third time He said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love Me?”
To Jesus, heart is everything.
Discussion Questions 📝❓:
- Pastor Jen spoke about the importance of context and perspective for understanding the Easter story. Why do you think it’s necessary to look at these aspects when discussing significant events in our lives or faith?
- The Israelites celebrated Passover to remember their freedom from slavery in Egypt. How does reflecting on your own past experiences help you appreciate your freedom or blessings in life?
- John described Jesus as the Lamb of God when He was entering the city. Why is the symbolic meaning of Jesus as a lamb so significant to the Easter message?
- Pastor Jen mentioned that God asks us, “Do you love me?” as part of our faith journey. What is the significance of Him asking this? Is it difficult for you to answer sometimes?