Beyond the Weekend

April 12 | Servant

April 12, 2022

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Very early in the morning, the chief priests, with the elders, the teachers of the law and the whole Sanhedrin, made their plans. So they bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate. Mark 15:1

Read: Mark 15:1-15
Listen:
Mark 15

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Suffering from emotional and physical abuse, Jesus is dragged before Pilate, the Roman governor of Palestine. Although the religious leaders charge him with treason against Rome, Pilate finds no evidence against Jesus and wants to release him. But Pilate is caught between the innocence of Jesus and the mob who wants him dead. Instead of releasing Jesus, Pilate releases Barabbas, an insurrectionist and a revolutionary. Jesus is turned over to be crucified.

In Barabbas, the people get the type of rescuer they want: a military figure who desires to overthrow the hated Romans through power and violence. Even Jesus’s own disciples are looking for this type of Messiah, a mighty conquering hero who would finally clear the occupiers out of Israel. But Jesus doesn’t come as a conqueror. He comes as a servant.

The cross shows us that the way of Jesus is the way of servanthood. It’s an invitation to live life differently from others by serving. While the world remains focused on money, power, status and prestige—the cross invites us to serve in every part of our life. Watch this video clip as Pastor Aaron Buer tells us we are to be known as someone who serves in our family, school, workplace, neighborhood and church.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Evaluate your response to the invitation of the cross to serve. Ask yourself, “Is there a part of my life where my service is lacking?” It may be at home, at school or where you work. Pick one area and take a new step to serve your family, classmates or co-workers starting this week.


2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE

Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.

ROMANS 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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