Easter Saturday, John 19.38-42

On this strange day, standing silently between the agony of Good Friday and the Hallelujah of Easter Sunday, we meet a secret disciple of Jesus. Today he assures us of his love, and calls each of us to follow him more openly and courageously.

Good Friday, John 19.23-27

We stand on holy ground as we contemplate Jesus’ death for us. In our reading he gives three ‘cries’ from the cross. On the surface they are quite different from each other, but there is an integrating theme which links them all.

Maundy Thursday, Luke 22.39-46

On Maundy Thursday the focus is on Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Here, we read that Jesus’ sweat was ‘like drops of blood on the ground’. But what does this mean, and why did Jesus suffer such agony as he contemplated what was before him?

The Hole in our Holiness, John 17.6-19

It is appropriate we consider our own journey towards holiness in Holy Week. Is there a ‘hole in our holiness’? Jesus words challenge us to press on to become more like him, as well as showing us the way we can do this.

Practical Love, John 13.1-17 

Jesus washing his disciples’ feet shows us his extraordinary love. And it is also an example to us (v15). But what does this mean, and how can we live out Jesus’ command in these troubled times?

The Servant King, John 13.1-17 

At the beginning of Holy Week we reflect on how Jesus shows us the ‘full extent of his love’. There is free and full forgiveness available for every one of us. Will we receive this today?

Romans 5.6-18, The Pilgrim’s Progress

Discipleship is rather like a journey. John Bunyan saw this very well and wrote his classic, The Pilgrim’s Progress, to encourage his ‘fellow pilgrims’ in the Christian life. This reflection, which includes a reading from Bunyan’s great work, helps us focus on the cross and all that God has done for us.

Hebrews 12.1-3, Finishing the Race

How can we ‘run the race’ of discipleship well, right to the end? These verses show us how to run and – most importantly – where to look. Here is crucial teaching and encouragement for all who are growing weary and who may be struggling at this difficult time.

Hebrews 11.13-21, Everyone Invited 

We stand in awe the great heroes of the faith recorded for us in Hebrews 11. But they were people like us, frail and faltering. God can take us, just as he took them, and increase our faith. The journey of discipleship is a journey onto which all are invited – even those who stumble and struggle. We too can take our place with these heroes of the faith.

Hebrews 11.1-11, Faith in the Dark

The opening verses of this great chapter challenge us to trust in God in troubled times, ‘leaning our whole weight’ on him. May God help us to show the difference faith in our faithful God makes in uncertain times.