Devotion

Cross with bible and candle on a old oak wooden table. Beautiful gold background. Religion concept.

The self-isolation that many of us are going through right now is a golden opportunity to work on our devotional life. Personal devotion often ends up in the shadow of Sunday worship, but the fact is that a daily routine of praying and reading the Bible is far more important for spiritual maturity and lasting discipleship than weekly meetings, although they, of course, also play an important role.

Devotions can look a thousand different ways and for them to be long-term sustainable, it is only good to adapt them to what works best in one’s own household. But models can be good for having something to start from.

Therefore, since we are in Easter week, we would like to present a simple arrangement for devotion for the next five days (Wednesday-Sunday). It can be used both individually and as a family. We will read from Matthew’s account of Jesus’ death and resurrection and use the following simple structure:

  • Worship
  • Bible reading
  • Reflection
  • Prayer

So, light some candles, wrap yourself in blankets and seek God with us this holy Easter time!

Wednesday April 8: the road to the cross

Worship: At the cross:

Bible Reading: Matthew 26: 1-15

Reflection: Think in silence or talk about:

How would you react if you were one of the apostles and heard Jesus foretell his death?

Why did some people want to see Jesus dead when he did so much good?

Prayer: Pray freely and end with the Lord’s prayer and blessing.

Thursday, April 8: the last meal

Worship: Rememberance:

Bible Reading: Matthew 26: 17-56

Reflection: Thinking in silence or talking about:

What does the ”covenant blood” that gives forgiveness means?

Why do you think Jesus was upset that the disciples fell asleep?

Prayer: Pray freely and end with the Lord’s prayer and blessing.

Long Friday, April 9: Jesus’ death

Worship: Above All:

Bible Reading: Matthew 27: 11-56

Reflection: Think in silence or talk about:

Why do you think the word ”king” is used to mock Jesus?

The curtain in the temple (verse 51) was shielding the Most Holy. Why did it break when Jesus died?

Prayer: Pray freely and end with the Lord’s prayer and blessing.

Easter Eve, April 10: the burial

Worship: Shepherd of my soul:

Bible Reading: Matthew 27: 57-66

Reflection: Think in silence or talk about:

What do you think the disciples thought when Jesus died?

Why is Matthew so careful about the details of where Joseph came from and who witnessed the funeral?

Prayer: Pray freely and end with the Lord’s prayer and blessing.

Easter Day April 11: Christ is Risen!

Worship: Happy Day!

Bible Reading: Matthew 28: 1-20

Reflection: Think in silence or talk about:

What does Jesus’ resurrection mean for your life?

How can we help to fulfill the Great Commission in verses 19-20?

Prayer: Pray freely and end with the Lord’s prayer and blessing.