Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples from a Cave, courtesy of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Lent 2024

Daily Devotion

for 40 Days

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Day 28

Cross Keys United Methodist Church

www.crosskeyschurch.org

Scripture:

1 Corinthians 15:55

Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?

Scripture:

Revelation 21:3-4

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Spoiler Alert

Many years ago there was a very popular movie that was known for its surprise ending. You may know this movie, “The Sixth Sense.” It starred Bruce Willis as a psychologist tasked with treating a child who saw dead people. The movie proceeds to portray the relationship that develops between the two stars along with some very scary moments with dead people. (Spoiler Alert)

The surprise at the end of the movie is that Bruce Willis’ character is dead. This was a stunning ending which left the viewer reviewing everything that came before for clues to the end. For anyone who watches it again, the end is anticlimactic. Somehow knowing the ending takes all of the suspense and impact out of it.


Well, I’ve got another spoiler alert for you. We know how the story of the world ends.

God wins, Satan fails and we get to live in the presence of God and Jesus for eternity! In light of this, our everyday struggles seem pretty small. Even the big stuff, and we all have some, is only momentary when viewed from God’s perspective and eternity. When you look at the world around us and feel despair, remember God wins. When you feel weak or tempted, remember God wins.

When you fear the storms around you, remember God wins. Knowing how the story ends makes the story less scary, don’t you think?

Reflection Written by Julie Guenther

Prayer:


Lord help us remember that in our weakness You are strong. Our weakness should not be feared but celebrated as an opportunity for the world to see Your glory.

In Jesus's name, we pray, Amen.

Please take a moment to consider what God is speaking to you through the scripture passage and the devotional reflection.


Then, take some time for prayer—pray for your own soul, and lift up

our Spring Tea gathering today. Let us pray that those in attendance experience joy and peace during the fellowship. Also, let us remember those who cannot join the gathering due to their health issues


You can also listen to the music provided below as a backdrop

for your time of prayer.

Man Praying Illustration

You’ve Already Won by Shane & Shane

Check our previous devotion!