What threads/themes/intersection(s) did you find this week?
This week’s passages are:
John 10:11-18: Jesus proclaims himself as the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep, and takes it up again.
1 John 3:16-24: As Jesus laid down his life for us we should lay down our lives for each other. We are called to follow God’s command to love one another – in action, not just in word.
Acts 4:5-12: Peter and the other disciples are put on trial by the religious leaders, who ask them by which name or power they have healed the lame man. Peter, in response, tells them that it is by the power of Jesus that the healing has happened. Though they rejected Jesus, he has become “the cornerstone” and is the name through which humanity is saved.
Psalm 23: David celebrates God as his shepherd who provides for him, cares for him, protects him, and in whose house he will live forever.
Questions for these passages:
How does these passages point to Jesus?
How does these passages connect or conflict with Jesus' teachings, loving actions, or mission?
How does these passages shape me to be more loving like Jesus?
My Story Threads:
Intersections/Themes for Easter Sunday:
Christ as Our One True Savior
Acts 4:5-12: Picture Peter speaking with bold conviction, making it clear that Jesus is the only one through whom we can find salvation. It’s a powerful reminder of the unique and foundational role Jesus plays in our faith.
John 10:11-18: Here, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd, someone who's not just passing through but who’s deeply committed to us, even to the point of laying down His life.
The Ultimate Example of Love
1 John 3:16-24: This text really gets to the heart of what it means to live like Jesus—showing love not just in words but in concrete actions. It challenges us to think about how we're actively loving those around us.
John 10:11-18: Jesus doesn’t just talk about love; He shows it by being willing to sacrifice everything for His sheep. It’s about as real as love gets.
A Relationship Based on Deep Knowledge
John 10:11-18: Jesus talks about knowing His followers and being known by them—a relationship that’s deep and personal, much like the close relationship He has with the Father.
Psalm 23: Reflects this idea beautifully, portraying God as a shepherd who knows exactly what we need: rest, rejuvenation, guidance, and protection.
Led and Protected by Our Shepherd
Psalm 23: This psalm is a comforting depiction of God caring for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep, making sure we’re not wanting for anything and keeping us safe, even in the toughest times.
John 10:11-18: Jesus emphasizes His role as a genuine caretaker, not like a hired hand who runs at the first sign of trouble but as someone who stays, protects, and ensures the well-being of His flock.
Thriving
Psalm 23 and John 10:11-18: Both passages give us this beautiful picture of not just surviving but thriving under the care of our Good Shepherd, promising an abundance of life and a forever place in His presence.
1 John 3:16-24: Pushes us to see how our ongoing relationship with God, through the Spirit He has given us, should naturally express itself in loving actions towards others.
These themes invite us to reflect on how deeply Jesus loves and commits to us, challenging us to show that same commitment and love in our lives. It's about embodying the role of a good shepherd in our own communities, looking after one another with the same dedication and love that Jesus shows us.