Monday of Holy Week
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
“Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Opening Reading
Isaiah 42—A Prophecy of Jesus our Anointed King (i.e. Messiah).
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Behold my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my Spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
a bruised reed he will not break,
and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
Thus, says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
Behold my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my Spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
a bruised reed he will not break,
and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
Thus, says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
“I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness;
I will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations,
to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
I am the Lord; that is my name;
my glory I give to no other,
nor my praise to carved idols.
who gives breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
“I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness;
I will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations,
to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
I am the Lord; that is my name;
my glory I give to no other,
nor my praise to carved idols.
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: Behold my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my Spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
PEOPLE: He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
LEADER: a bruised reed he will not break,
and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
PEOPLE: He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
LEADER: Thus, says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
PEOPLE: who gives breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
LEADER: Behold my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my Spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
PEOPLE: He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
LEADER: a bruised reed he will not break,
and a faintly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
PEOPLE: He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
LEADER: Thus, says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
PEOPLE: who gives breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
LEADER: “I am the Lord;
I have called you in righteousness;
I will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations,
PEOPLE: to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
LEADER: I am the Lord; that is my name;
my glory I give to no other,
nor my praise to carved idols.
ALL: Behold, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.”
I have called you in righteousness;
I will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations,
PEOPLE: to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.
LEADER: I am the Lord; that is my name;
my glory I give to no other,
nor my praise to carved idols.
ALL: Behold, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.”
Read & Reflect
- Read Hebrews 9:11-15 and John 12:1-11 and spend 5-10 minutes reflecting on what you learned from this passage. If you are using this devotional as part of a group, perhaps each person can point out one verse that was particularly meaningful to them.
- Alternate Option: Perhaps for those with small children, read the story of the “Washed with Tears” (pp. 280-285) from The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.
Hebrews 9:11-15 (ESV)
11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) 12 he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
15 Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.
John 12:1-11 (ESV)
1 Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. 3 Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, 5 “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. 7 Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. 8 For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”
9 When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, 11 because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.
11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) 12 he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
15 Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.
John 12:1-11 (ESV)
1 Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. 3 Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, 5 “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. 7 Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. 8 For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”
9 When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, 11 because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
FAIREST LORD JESUS
(17th Century German hymn)
(17th Century German hymn)
Fairest Lord Jesus,
ruler of all nature,
O thou of God and man the Son,
Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor,
thou, my soul’s glory, joy, and crown.
Fair are the meadows,
fairer still the woodlands,
robed in the blooming garb of spring:
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer
who makes the woeful heart to sing.
Fair is the sunshine,
fairer still the moonlight,
and all the twinkling starry host:
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
than all the angels heaven can boast.
Beautiful Savior!
Lord of all the nations!
Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor, praise, adoration,
now and forevermore be thine.
PUBLIC DOMAIN
ruler of all nature,
O thou of God and man the Son,
Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor,
thou, my soul’s glory, joy, and crown.
Fair are the meadows,
fairer still the woodlands,
robed in the blooming garb of spring:
Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer
who makes the woeful heart to sing.
Fair is the sunshine,
fairer still the moonlight,
and all the twinkling starry host:
Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer
than all the angels heaven can boast.
Beautiful Savior!
Lord of all the nations!
Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor, praise, adoration,
now and forevermore be thine.
PUBLIC DOMAIN
Closing Reading
Psalm 36 (ESV) — A Prayer of Jesus Christ
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Statement of Context: God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O Lord.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
Statement of Context: God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O Lord.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge
in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.
Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you,
and your righteousness to the upright of heart!
Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.
Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you,
and your righteousness to the upright of heart!
Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
Option 2: Read Responsively
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let us read His Word together.”
LEADER: Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
PEOPLE: Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O Lord.
LEADER: How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let us read His Word together.”
LEADER: Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
PEOPLE: Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O Lord.
LEADER: How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
PEOPLE: They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
LEADER: For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.
PEOPLE: Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you,
and your righteousness to the upright of heart!
ALL: Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
LEADER: For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light do we see light.
PEOPLE: Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you,
and your righteousness to the upright of heart!
ALL: Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.
Tuesday of Holy Week
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
“O God, by the suffering of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life: Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ, that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“O God, by the suffering of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life: Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ, that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Opening Reading
Isaiah 42—A Prophecy of Jesus our Anointed King (i.e. Messiah).
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Listen to me, O coastlands,
and give attention, you peoples from afar.
The Lord called me from the womb,
from the body of my mother he named my name.
He made my mouth like a sharp sword;
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me a polished arrow;
in his quiver he hid me away.
And he said to me, “You are my servant,
Israel, in whom I will be glorified.”
But I said, “I have labored in vain;
I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity;
yet surely my right is with the Lord,
Listen to me, O coastlands,
and give attention, you peoples from afar.
The Lord called me from the womb,
from the body of my mother he named my name.
He made my mouth like a sharp sword;
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me a polished arrow;
in his quiver he hid me away.
And he said to me, “You are my servant,
Israel, in whom I will be glorified.”
But I said, “I have labored in vain;
I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity;
yet surely my right is with the Lord,
and my recompense with my God.”
And now the Lord says,
he who formed me from the womb to be his servant,
to bring Jacob back to him;
and that Israel might be gathered to him—
for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord,
and my God has become my strength—
He says:
“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant
to raise up the tribes of Jacob
and to bring back the preserved of Israel;
I will make you as a light for the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
And now the Lord says,
he who formed me from the womb to be his servant,
to bring Jacob back to him;
and that Israel might be gathered to him—
for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord,
and my God has become my strength—
He says:
“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant
to raise up the tribes of Jacob
and to bring back the preserved of Israel;
I will make you as a light for the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: Listen to me, O coastlands,
and give attention, you peoples from afar.
The Lord called me from the womb,
from the body of my mother he named my name.
PEOPLE: He made my mouth like a sharp sword;
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me a polished arrow;
in his quiver he hid me away.
LEADER: And he said to me, “You are my servant,
Israel, in whom I will be glorified.”
PEOPLE: But I said, “I have labored in vain;
I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity;
yet surely my right is with the Lord,
and my recompense with my God.”
LEADER: Listen to me, O coastlands,
and give attention, you peoples from afar.
The Lord called me from the womb,
from the body of my mother he named my name.
PEOPLE: He made my mouth like a sharp sword;
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me a polished arrow;
in his quiver he hid me away.
LEADER: And he said to me, “You are my servant,
Israel, in whom I will be glorified.”
PEOPLE: But I said, “I have labored in vain;
I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity;
yet surely my right is with the Lord,
and my recompense with my God.”
LEADER: And now the Lord says,
he who formed me from the womb to be his servant,
to bring Jacob back to him;
and that Israel might be gathered to him—
for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord,
and my God has become my strength—
ALL: He says:
“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant
to raise up the tribes of Jacob
and to bring back the preserved of Israel;
I will make you as a light for the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.
he who formed me from the womb to be his servant,
to bring Jacob back to him;
and that Israel might be gathered to him—
for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord,
and my God has become my strength—
ALL: He says:
“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant
to raise up the tribes of Jacob
and to bring back the preserved of Israel;
I will make you as a light for the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.
Read & Reflect
- Read 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 and John 13:1-15 and spend 5-10 minutes reflecting on what you learned from this passage. If you are using this devotional as part of a group, perhaps each person can point out one verse that was particularly meaningful to them.
- Alternate Option: Perhaps for those with small children, read the story of “The Servant King” (pp. 286-293) from The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.
1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (ESV)
18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written,
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.”
20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. 22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
John 13:1-15 (ESV)
1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” 8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”
12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
AMAZING GRACE
(John Newton, 1779)
(John Newton, 1779)
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’d first begun.
PUBLIC DOMAIN
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’d first begun.
PUBLIC DOMAIN
Closing Reading
Psalm 71 (ESV) — A Prayer of Jesus our Lord
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
you are he who took me from my mother’s womb.
My praise is continually of you.
I have been as a portent to many,
but you are my strong refuge.
My mouth is filled with your praise,
and with your glory all the day.
Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
forsake me not when my strength is spent.
For my enemies speak concerning me;
those who watch for my life consult together
and say, “God has forsaken him;
pursue and seize him,
for there is none to deliver him.”
O God, be not far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me!
My praise is continually of you.
I have been as a portent to many,
but you are my strong refuge.
My mouth is filled with your praise,
and with your glory all the day.
Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
forsake me not when my strength is spent.
For my enemies speak concerning me;
those who watch for my life consult together
and say, “God has forsaken him;
pursue and seize him,
for there is none to deliver him.”
O God, be not far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me!
Option 2: Read Responsively
Leader’s Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let’s read His Word together.”
LEADER: In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
PEOPLE: In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
LEADER: Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
PEOPLE: Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
LEADER: For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
PEOPLE: Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
you are he who took me from my mother’s womb.
My praise is continually of you.
Leader’s Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let’s read His Word together.”
LEADER: In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
PEOPLE: In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
LEADER: Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
PEOPLE: Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
LEADER: For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
PEOPLE: Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
you are he who took me from my mother’s womb.
My praise is continually of you.
LEADER: I have been as a portent to many,
but you are my strong refuge.
PEOPLE: My mouth is filled with your praise,
and with your glory all the day.
LEADER: Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
forsake me not when my strength is spent.
PEOPLE: For my enemies speak concerning me;
those who watch for my life consult together
LEADER: and say, “God has forsaken him;
pursue and seize him,
for there is none to deliver him.”
ALL: O God, be not far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me!
but you are my strong refuge.
PEOPLE: My mouth is filled with your praise,
and with your glory all the day.
LEADER: Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
forsake me not when my strength is spent.
PEOPLE: For my enemies speak concerning me;
those who watch for my life consult together
LEADER: and say, “God has forsaken him;
pursue and seize him,
for there is none to deliver him.”
ALL: O God, be not far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me!
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.
Wednesday of Holy Week
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
“Lord God, whose blessed Son our Savior gave his body to be whipped and his face to be spit upon: Give us grace to accept joyfully the sufferings of the present time, confident of the glory that shall be revealed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“Lord God, whose blessed Son our Savior gave his body to be whipped and his face to be spit upon: Give us grace to accept joyfully the sufferings of the present time, confident of the glory that shall be revealed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Opening Reading
Isaiah 50:4-9a — The Suffering and Vindication of our Lord Jesus.
Option 1: Read the Full Text
The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Morning by morning he awakens;
he awakens my ear
to hear as those who are taught.
The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I turned not backward.
I gave my back to those who strike,
and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard;
I hid not my face
The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Morning by morning he awakens;
he awakens my ear
to hear as those who are taught.
The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I turned not backward.
I gave my back to those who strike,
and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard;
I hid not my face
from disgrace and spitting.
But the Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like a flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame.
He who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand up together.
Who is my adversary?
Let him come near to me.
Behold, the Lord God helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
But the Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like a flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame.
He who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand up together.
Who is my adversary?
Let him come near to me.
Behold, the Lord God helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Morning by morning he awakens;
he awakens my ear
to hear as those who are taught.
PEOPLE: The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I turned not backward.
LEADER: I gave my back to those who strike,
and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard;
I hid not my face
from disgrace and spitting.
LEADER: The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Morning by morning he awakens;
he awakens my ear
to hear as those who are taught.
PEOPLE: The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I turned not backward.
LEADER: I gave my back to those who strike,
and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard;
I hid not my face
from disgrace and spitting.
PEOPLE: But the Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like a flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame.
LEADER: He who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand up together.
Who is my adversary?
Let him come near to me.
ALL: Behold, the Lord God helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like a flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame.
LEADER: He who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand up together.
Who is my adversary?
Let him come near to me.
ALL: Behold, the Lord God helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
Read & Reflect
- Read Hebrews 12:1-4 and John 13:21-32, 18:1-11 and spend 5-10 minutes reflecting on what you learned from this passage. If you are using this devotional as part of a group, perhaps each person can point out one verse that was particularly meaningful to them.
- Alternate Option: Perhaps for those with small children, read the story of the “A Night in the Garden” (pp. 294-301) from The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.
Hebrews 12 (ESV)
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. 4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.
John 13:21-32 (ESV)
21 After saying these things, Jesus was troubled in his spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” 22 The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke. 23 One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was reclining at table at Jesus’ side, 24 so Simon Peter motioned to him to ask Jesus of whom he was speaking. 25 So that disciple, leaning back against Jesus, said to him, “Lord, who is it?” 26 Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I will give this morsel of bread when I have dipped it.” So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. 27 Then after he had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” 28 Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. 29 Some thought that, because Judas had the moneybag, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the feast,” or that he should give something to the poor. 30 So, after receiving the morsel of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night.
31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once.
John 18:1-11 (ESV)
1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. 2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5 They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” 9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” 10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
YOU ARE MY KING (AMAZING LOVE)
(Billy Foote)
(Billy Foote)
I’m forgiven, because You were forsaken.
I’m accepted, You were condemned.
I’m alive and well, Your Spirit is within me,
Because You died, and rose again.
CHORUS:
Amazing love, How can it be
That You my King would die for me?
Amazing love, I know it’s true,
It’s my joy to honor You,
In all I do, I honor You.
You are my King.
You are my King.
Jesus, You are my King.
Jesus, You are my King.
©1996 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI#1791178
I’m accepted, You were condemned.
I’m alive and well, Your Spirit is within me,
Because You died, and rose again.
CHORUS:
Amazing love, How can it be
That You my King would die for me?
Amazing love, I know it’s true,
It’s my joy to honor You,
In all I do, I honor You.
You are my King.
You are my King.
Jesus, You are my King.
Jesus, You are my King.
©1996 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI#1791178
Closing Reading
Psalm 70 — The Lord Jesus Crying out for Deliverance.
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
Make haste, O God, to deliver me!
O, Lord, make haste to help me!
Let them be put to shame and confusion
who seek my life!
Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor
who delight in my hurt!
Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us.
Make haste, O God, to deliver me!
O, Lord, make haste to help me!
Let them be put to shame and confusion
who seek my life!
Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor
who delight in my hurt!
Let them turn back because of their shame
who say, “Aha, Aha!”
May all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O, Lord, do not delay!
who say, “Aha, Aha!”
May all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O, Lord, do not delay!
Option 2: Read Responsively
Leader’s Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let us read His Word together.”
LEADER: Make haste, O God, to deliver me!
O, Lord, make haste to help me!
PEOPLE: Let them be put to shame and confusion
who seek my life!
Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor
who delight in my hurt!
LEADER: Let them turn back because of their shame
who say, “Aha, Aha!”
Leader’s Statement of Context: “God seeks us and saves us by His Word—most fully through His Living Word, Jesus Christ, who prayed these Psalms in their fullness. Jesus came for us, and fully identified with us. Let us read His Word together.”
LEADER: Make haste, O God, to deliver me!
O, Lord, make haste to help me!
PEOPLE: Let them be put to shame and confusion
who seek my life!
Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor
who delight in my hurt!
LEADER: Let them turn back because of their shame
who say, “Aha, Aha!”
PEOPLE: May all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
LEADER: But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
ALL: You are my help and my deliverer;
O, Lord, do not delay!
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
LEADER: But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
ALL: You are my help and my deliverer;
O, Lord, do not delay!
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.
Thursday of Holy Week
Maundy Thursday
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
Opening Reading
Type your new text here.
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Type your new text here.
Option 2: Read Responsively
Type your new text here.
Read & Reflect
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
Type your new text here.
Type your new text here.
Closing Reading
Type your new text here.
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Option 2: Read Responsively
Type your new text here.
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.
Friday of Holy Week
Preparation
Find eight candles in your home and place them on a table. They do not have to be matching candles but, ideally, should be candles that can be easily blown or snuffed out. Begin with all the candles lit.
Introduction
Good Friday is the celebration of Jesus sacrificial death for our sins. For this time of worship we will consider the seven last words of Jesus from the cross.
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
“Almighty God, we pray that you would graciously look upon this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“Almighty God, we pray that you would graciously look upon this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Opening Reading
Psalm 13 — Jesus’s Prayer of Desperation and Faith
Option 1: Read the Full Text
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
How long must I take counsel in my soul
and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
How long must I take counsel in my soul
and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”
lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
PEOPLE: How long must I take counsel in my soul
and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
LEADER: Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
LEADER: How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
PEOPLE: How long must I take counsel in my soul
and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
LEADER: Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
PEOPLE: lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”
lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
LEADER: But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
ALL: I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
LEADER: But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
ALL: I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
The Seven Last Words Of Jesus On The Cross
After each passage is read, extinguish one candle. If you have varying sizes of candles, you may want to extinguish the candles starting with the smallest to the largest. This will save the largest candle for end. After the seventh word, there should only be one candle remaining lit. If you are doing this as a group, assign readings to various people in your group. After each reading all present should respond with “The Word of our Lord.”
Jesus’s First Word – Luke 23:32-34 (ESV)
Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with Jesus. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Second Word – Luke 23:39-43 (ESV)
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Third Word – John 19:26-27 (ESV)
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Fourth Word – Matthew 27:45-46 (ESV)
Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Fifth Word – John 19:28 (ESV)
After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Sixth Word – John 19:30 (ESV)
A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Seventh And Final Word – Luke 23:44-46 (ESV)
It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun’s light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last.
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
The eighth candle remains lit as a reminder of the hope of the resurrection.
Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with Jesus. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Second Word – Luke 23:39-43 (ESV)
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Third Word – John 19:26-27 (ESV)
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Fourth Word – Matthew 27:45-46 (ESV)
Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Fifth Word – John 19:28 (ESV)
After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Sixth Word – John 19:30 (ESV)
A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished.”
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
Jesus’s Seventh And Final Word – Luke 23:44-46 (ESV)
It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun’s light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last.
EVERYONE RESPONDS: The Word of our Lord.
The eighth candle remains lit as a reminder of the hope of the resurrection.
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
WERE YOU THERE
(Frederick J. Work, John Wesley Work Jr., 1899)
(Frederick J. Work, John Wesley Work Jr., 1899)
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
PUBLIC DOMAIN
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they nail’d him to the cross?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when God raised him from the tomb?
PUBLIC DOMAIN
Closing Reading
Psalm 118:19-24
Option 1: Read the Full Text
Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
This is the LORD’s gate;
the righteous shall enter through it.
I will give thanks because you have answered me.
You have become my salvation.
Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
This is the LORD’s gate;
the righteous shall enter through it.
I will give thanks because you have answered me.
You have become my salvation.
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the chief cornerstone.
This has come from the LORD.
It is marvelous in our eyes.
This is the day on which the Lord has acted.
Let us shout with joy and rejoice in it.
has become the chief cornerstone.
This has come from the LORD.
It is marvelous in our eyes.
This is the day on which the Lord has acted.
Let us shout with joy and rejoice in it.
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
PEOPLE: This is the LORD’s gate;
the righteous shall enter through it.
LEADER: I will give thanks because you have answered me. You have become my salvation.
PEOPLE: The stone that the builders rejected
has become the chief cornerstone.
LEADER: Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
PEOPLE: This is the LORD’s gate;
the righteous shall enter through it.
LEADER: I will give thanks because you have answered me. You have become my salvation.
PEOPLE: The stone that the builders rejected
has become the chief cornerstone.
LEADER: This has come from the LORD.
PEOPLE: It is marvelous in our eyes.
LEADER: This is the day on which the Lord has acted.
ALL: Let us shout with joy and rejoice in it.
PEOPLE: It is marvelous in our eyes.
LEADER: This is the day on which the Lord has acted.
ALL: Let us shout with joy and rejoice in it.
Benediction
John 1 (ESV)
LEADER: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it…
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
PEOPLE: Amen!
LEADER: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it…
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
PEOPLE: Amen!
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.
Saturday of Holy Week
Opening Prayer
Open in prayer and/or use the suggested prayer below.
“O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
Opening Reading
Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16 (ESV)
Option 1: Read the Full Text
In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me!
Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me!
For you are my rock and my fortress;
In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me!
Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me!
For you are my rock and my fortress;
and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;
you take me out of the net they have hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
My times are in your hand;
rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
Make your face shine on your servant;
save me in your steadfast love!
you take me out of the net they have hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
My times are in your hand;
rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
Make your face shine on your servant;
save me in your steadfast love!
Option 2: Read Responsively
LEADER: In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me!
PEOPLE: Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me!
LEADER: For you are my rock and my fortress;
and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;
LEADER: In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me!
PEOPLE: Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily!
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me!
LEADER: For you are my rock and my fortress;
and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;
PEOPLE: you take me out of the net they have hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
LEADER: My times are in your hand;
rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
ALL: Make your face shine on your servant;
save me in your steadfast love!
for you are my refuge.
LEADER: My times are in your hand;
rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
ALL: Make your face shine on your servant;
save me in your steadfast love!
Song
I LIFT MY EYES UP
(Brian Doerksen, Psalm 121)
(Brian Doerksen, Psalm 121)
I lift my eyes up,
Up to the mountains.
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from You
Maker of heaven,
Creator of the earth.
CHORUS:
Oh how I need You, Lord
You are my only hope
You are my only prayer
So I will wait for You
To come and rescue me
To come and give me life.
I lift my eyes up,
Up to my keeper
For you watch over me.
My help comes from You,
For you are faithful,
And you will keep my life.
(CHORUS)
©1990 Vineyard Songs Canada (Admin. by Music Services) CCLI#1791178
Up to the mountains.
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from You
Maker of heaven,
Creator of the earth.
CHORUS:
Oh how I need You, Lord
You are my only hope
You are my only prayer
So I will wait for You
To come and rescue me
To come and give me life.
I lift my eyes up,
Up to my keeper
For you watch over me.
My help comes from You,
For you are faithful,
And you will keep my life.
(CHORUS)
©1990 Vineyard Songs Canada (Admin. by Music Services) CCLI#1791178
Read & Reflect
- Read Job 14:1-2, 7-14 & Lamentations 3:19-24 and spend 5-10 minutes reflecting on what you learned from this passage. How do you see the story of Jesus’s death, burial and resurrection? The writer of Hebrews wrote that Jesus prayed fervently “to the One able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his piety” (Hebrews 5:7).
- Alternate Option: Perhaps for those with small children, read the story of “The Sun Stops Shining” (pp. 302-309) from The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.
Job 14:1-2, 7-14 (ESV)
1 “Man who is born of a woman
is few of days and full of trouble.
2 He comes out like a flower and withers;
he flees like a shadow and continues not…
7 “For there is hope for a tree,
if it be cut down, that it will sprout again,
and that its shoots will not cease.
8 Though its root grow old in the earth,
and its stump die in the soil,
9 yet at the scent of water it will bud
and put out branches like a young plant.
10 But a man dies and is laid low;
man breathes his last, and where is he?
1 “Man who is born of a woman
is few of days and full of trouble.
2 He comes out like a flower and withers;
he flees like a shadow and continues not…
7 “For there is hope for a tree,
if it be cut down, that it will sprout again,
and that its shoots will not cease.
8 Though its root grow old in the earth,
and its stump die in the soil,
9 yet at the scent of water it will bud
and put out branches like a young plant.
10 But a man dies and is laid low;
man breathes his last, and where is he?
11 As waters fail from a lake
and a river wastes away and dries up,
12 so a man lies down and rises not again;
till the heavens are no more he will not awake
or be roused out of his sleep.
13 Oh that you would hide me in Sheol,
that you would conceal me until your wrath be past,
that you would appoint me a set time, and remember me!
14 If a man dies, shall he live again?
All the days of my service I would wait,
till my renewal should come.
and a river wastes away and dries up,
12 so a man lies down and rises not again;
till the heavens are no more he will not awake
or be roused out of his sleep.
13 Oh that you would hide me in Sheol,
that you would conceal me until your wrath be past,
that you would appoint me a set time, and remember me!
14 If a man dies, shall he live again?
All the days of my service I would wait,
till my renewal should come.
Lamentations 3:19-24 (ESV)
19 Remember my affliction and my wanderings,
the wormwood and the gall!
20 My soul continually remembers it
and is bowed down within me.
21 But this I call to mind,
and therefore I have hope:
19 Remember my affliction and my wanderings,
the wormwood and the gall!
20 My soul continually remembers it
and is bowed down within me.
21 But this I call to mind,
and therefore I have hope:
22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”
Song
Sing or just play the recording via the attached link.
HALLELUJAH WHAT A SAVIOR
(Phillip Paul Bliss, 1875)
(Phillip Paul Bliss, 1875)
“Man of Sorrows,” what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood;
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Guilty, vile, and helpless, we,
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
Full atonement—can it be?
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Lifted up was He to die,
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in heaven lifted high;
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we’ll sing
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
PUBLIC DOMAIN
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood;
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Guilty, vile, and helpless, we,
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
Full atonement—can it be?
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Lifted up was He to die,
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in heaven lifted high;
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we’ll sing
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
PUBLIC DOMAIN
Closing Prayer
Thank God and close your time in prayer.