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All during this season, we have been traveling with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and now we are at the end. Today is Holy Saturday: the last day of the Triduum, and the last day of Lent. It is a day of quiet, and a day of waiting. Jesus lies helpless in the grave, and together we watch to see if God will act, if we will see him again.

So for one last day: can we make our minds quiet, and our hearts open? Can we grow in love and gratitude for all that God has done for us? Join me, as we listen to the words from Matthew’s gospel and sit in the quiet dark of Holy Saturday.

All during this season, we have been traveling with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and now we are here. Today is Good Friday: the central of three days that are also called the Triduum. These are the high and holy days when, in the words of one of my favorite writers, we “relive together the terrible and wonderful things that Jesus did to bring us back to God. We do not understand this story with our minds, but with our hearts; and we are deeply thankful for what Jesus did for us.”

So today and tomorrow: can we make our minds quiet, and our hearts open? Can we grow in love and gratitude for all that God has done for us? Join me, as we listen to the words from Matthew’s gospel and gather at the foot of the cross.

All during this season, we have been traveling with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and now we are here. Today is Tuesday in Holy Week.

This week, many of Jesus’s followers around the world will pray using a practice called the Stations of the Cross. This is a way of walking with Jesus, step by step, through the very last hours of his life. Together, we are doing something similar. We are listening to the words that Matthew gave us about Jesus’ final day: but not just as listeners. Instead, let’s try to go inside the story. Let’s imagine ourselves there in Jerusalem, with him. And let’s try to stay close to Jesus, all the way to the end, because he went through all of this to bring us back to God.

Each day this week we will, in the words of one of my favorite writers, “relive together the terrible and wonderful things that Jesus did to bring us back to God. We do not understand this story with our minds, but with our hearts; and we are deeply thankful for what Jesus did for us.” Can we make our minds quiet, and our hearts open? And then join me, as we walk each day with Jesus to the cross.

All during this season, we have been traveling with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and now we are here. Today is Monday in Holy Week.

This week, many of Jesus’s followers around the world will pray using a practice called the Stations of the Cross. This is a way of walking with Jesus, step by step, through the very last hours of his life. Together, we are going to do something similar. We will listen to the words that Matthew gave us about Jesus’ final day: but not just as listeners. Instead, let’s try to go inside the story. Let’s imagine ourselves there in Jerusalem, with him. And let’s try to stay close to Jesus, all the way to the end, because he went through all of this to bring us back to God.

Each day this week we will, in the words of one of my favorite writers, “relive together the terrible and wonderful things that Jesus did to bring us back to God. We do not understand this story with our minds, but with our hearts; and we are deeply thankful for what Jesus did for us.” Can we make our minds quiet, and our hearts open? And then join me, as we walk each day with Jesus to the cross.

All during this season, we have been traveling with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and now we are here. Today is Palm Sunday, and it is the first day of Holy Week.

This week, many of Jesus’s followers around the world will pray using a practice called the Stations of the Cross. This is a way of walking with Jesus, step by step, through the very last hours of his life. Together, we are going to do something similar. We will listen to the words that Matthew gave us about Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and then his final day: but not just as listeners. Instead, let’s try to go inside the story. Let’s imagine ourselves there in Jerusalem, with him. And let’s try to stay close to Jesus, all the way to the end, because he went through all of this to bring us back to God.

Each day this week we will, in the words of one of my favorite writers, “relive together the terrible and wonderful things that Jesus did to bring us back to God. We do not understand this story with our minds, but with our hearts; and we are deeply thankful for what Jesus did for us.” Can we make our minds quiet, and our hearts open? And then join me, as we walk each day with Jesus to the cross.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

We have made it to the fifth week of Lent. It is a long season, and I wonder if we are getting tired? Still, the road to Jerusalem is stretching out in front of us, and Holy Week is coming, so we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his journey’s end.

As we do, we will trace the final stretch of that road as it was recorded by Matthew. Even if our feet are tired and our spirits have grown weary, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and trying to imagine that we are there with him. And we will do our best to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. Even as the season of Lent stretches on, we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can find a way to keep traveling with Jesus, little by little, as we make our way to the end of Lent.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 20, verses 17 through 28. Jesus and his friends are coming close to Jerusalem: they are traveling up, from the low country around Jericho, along the road that climbs to the city. As they do, he reminds them what is waiting for him at the end of the journey. I wonder, though, if the disciples are able to really hear what he is saying, or to understand.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

This is the fourth week of Lent: we are right at the halfway point of the season. If we turn around and look backward, we can see Jesus beginning to teach his friends about what is going to happen to him. If we look forward, down the road, we can see the city of Jerusalem rising up on its hill, and maybe, just beyond it, a cross.

For the next three weeks, we will continue to walk with Jesus, step by step, to his road’s end. We will listen to the account of that journey from Matthew’s gospel. And as we do, we will keep listening to Jesus’s words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will continue to pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. It will be our way of keeping company with Jesus.

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope that you can hear Jesus speaking to you, and coming close to you, every day, no matter what your week is like.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 19, verses 13 through 26. Jesus and his friends have traveled out of Galilee, which is their home, and across the Jordan River into Judea. As they go, crowds follow him, religious leaders test him, and people ask him questions. Everyone wants to see Jesus, and hear what he will say next. Let’s join him on the road.

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

Now we are in the third week of Lent. We aren’t yet halfway through, and the season is still stretched out in front of us as we make our way with Jesus along the road to Jerusalem, and to the cross.

Still, little by little, we will keep walking with Jesus through Matthew’s gospel, as he makes his final journey with his friends. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can picture this season as a journey with Jesus, and come close to him as his time on earth grows short.

This week’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, and 10 through 14. Jesus’s friends have begun to understand who Jesus is, a little: Peter has said out loud that Jesus is the Messiah, the man sent by God to save his people. But they are still learning how Jesus will save them, and what kind of Savior and King he will be. So as they travel along the road, the disciples ask Jesus a question. I wonder what answer they hope he will give?

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

We’re in the second week of Lent: this week, we are going a little further down the road with Jesus in Matthew’s gospel, as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day this week, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking alongside Jesus on the path to Jerusalem as we make our way with him up to the cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 17:14-21. Jesus and his three closest friends have just come down from the mountaintop. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus flooded with glory, and they heard a voice from heaven tell them, “This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!” Now they have come back down to join the other nine disciples, and a large crowd that has come to them for help.

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

Lent is the season between Ash Wednesday and Easter: these are the days when we slow down, make space, and pause each day to journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, and to the cross.

This Lent, we’re going to slow down and spend time in one story from Matthew’s gospel each week. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. After all, every day is different; but we still need to meet and listen for God, in all that is happening to us. I wonder what we will notice, as we listen to the same words over and over, all week long? I wonder what we will have to say to God?

I hope that you can listen every day, and let these words take deep root in your heart. I hope you can imagine yourself walking with Jesus and listening to him, all along the road to Jerusalem throughout this season, so that we can all join together at the end, around the foot of his cross.

This week’s reading is Matthew 16:21-26. Jesus and his disciples are outside a city called Caesarea Philippi. Jesus is teaching them, and for right now, they are all alone. Can we open our minds and hearts, and imagine ourselves there?

This year, we are going to spend time each week in one story from Matthew’s gospel. We will join Jesus as he walks with his disciples to Jerusalem one last time. Along the road, we will listen to his words and imagine that we are there with him: that he is speaking directly to us. And we will pay attention, each day, to what we see, and hear, and feel. These daily episodes will begin on Sunday, March 6, so be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you like to listen and they’ll be waiting for you each day.

But first, today, we are going to get ready. Lent is a long season: the road to Jerusalem is a long journey. So today, on Ash Wednesday, we’ll come to Jesus with our intentions and hopes for Lent, listen to his words, and then set our feet in his path and begin to follow him.

Today’s reading is Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21. Jesus is teaching his friends and followers on a mountainside. He wants them to see the world the way that God sees it, and to live in the way that God meant for people to live.

Today’s symbol is the manger. The Christ child is born! Alleluia!

I wonder how Mary and Joseph felt, now that their waiting for Jesus was over? I wonder if they were tired? Relieved? Happy to finally hold their child?

I wonder how I feel, now that Advent waiting is over? What has been hard? What has been good? What do I want to say to God about this waiting season?

I wonder what it was like to hear and see the angels singing the good news in the night sky? Can I imagine myself there? Can I taste a little bit of their joy?

Long ago, the prophet Isaiah promised that a new king would come out of Jesse’s family tree, and that he would be a loving king for every person in the whole world. I wonder if I can trust that Jesus is that king? I wonder if I can welcome him and his kingdom into my life?

I wonder what is different, now that God has come to live in our world? Can I ask God to help me see the world around me with his eyes?

I wonder if I can say thank you to God, who loves us so much that he was born and lived here, on earth, as one of us. What do I want to say to this God, who is with us always?

God who is with us, on this night your holy light shines bright in the darkness.Thank you for coming to live among us, to bring us into your light, and to save us from sin and death. We praise you, Jesus, and we love you.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol shows a carpenter’s tools. Mary was betrothed to Joseph, who was a carpenter. Joseph became Jesus’ earthly father, and he loved and protected him as he grew. Joseph listened to God’s words and he was not afraid.

I wonder what Joseph felt like, when he began to see that Mary would have a baby? I wonder if he worried and prayed as he worked in his carpenter’s shop?

I wonder how Joseph felt in the morning, when he awoke from his dream. I wonder if he was certain and confident, or doubtful? I wonder how he came to trust the words that he heard in his dream?

I wonder what Joseph thought when he heard his son’s name? Hopeful? Excited? Confused? What do I think, when I remember that Jesus’ name means “God saves”? Can I ask God to show me more about that name?

I wonder if it was ever hard for Joseph to believe that his son was from the Holy Spirit. I wonder if it’s ever hard for me to believe that Jesus really is God with us? What do I want to say to Jesus about that?

I wonder if I can hear God saying “do not be afraid” to me right now? What do I want to say to God?

God, you are kind and you protect us. Thank you for Joseph’s kindness to and protection of your Son, Jesus. Help us to obey like Joseph, not to be afraid, and to love everyone you give us who needs our care.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a heart. Mary opened her heart and her life to God’s words, and she became Jesus’ loving mother. Because of Mary’s brave heart, God’s love came into the world as her son.

I wonder what Mary felt like in her stomach, in her hands, in her body, when the angel appeared and began speaking to her? I wonder if his words, “Don’t be afraid!” brought her peace?

I wonder what Mary felt when she heard her son’s name? Hopeful? Excited? Amazed? I wonder how I feel, knowing that God chose to come and live with us with the name, “God Saves”?

Mary knew that God would come to save everyone who was small, unimportant, poor, and who needed him. I wonder how I need God to save me today? What do I want to ask God for, as we wait together for Jesus?

I wonder how Mary got ready for the birth of this special baby? I wonder if there is anything I can do to get ready to welcome Jesus into my life?

I wonder if I can hear God saying “do not be afraid” to me right now? What do I want to say to God?

God of love and grace, thank you for Mary’s brave heart. Thank you for choosing to come to your people as her small son. Help us open our hearts to you, too.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the angel who appeared to Zechariah. The angel told Zechariah that although he and his wife Elizabeth were old, they would have a child. This child would help God’s people get ready for the coming king.

I wonder what it was like to see Zechariah’s incense smoke going up like a prayer, and then to see God’s messenger appear? Can I imagine that moment in that holy place?

I wonder how Zechariah and Elizabeth got ready for the birth of their baby? I wonder how it felt to know their child had an important job from God?

I wonder why John was given such an important job? I wonder why we have to have someone help us get ready for Jesus?

I wonder how Advent this year has helped me get ready for Jesus’ coming? Is there anything I want to tell Jesus about my hope and waiting?

Can I say thank you to God for coming to us gently, and helping us get ready to welcome him?

God you want us to be ready, and you give us what we need to prepare for your coming. You sent John the Baptist to help Israel get ready for the coming king. Prepare us by your Holy Spirit for your coming Son. Turn our hearts back to you, give us light, and guide our feet in the ways of peace.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the great fish. God sent the prophet Jonah to Nineveh, but Jonah tried to run away. God was with Jonah in the storm, and in the fish, and finally when Jonah went to Nineveh. Jonah could not run away from God.

I wonder why Jonah immediately ran in the opposite direction when God asked him to go to Nineveh. I wonder what he hoped would happen?

I wonder if I have ever wanted to run away from what I knew God wanted me to do? Has there been a time when it felt too hard to be kind? Or too scary to say, “I’m sorry?” What do I want to say to God about that time?

I wonder why Jonah was so angry after the people of Nineveh listened to his words? I wonder what that anger felt like inside his body? I wonder why it was so hard for him to see God continue to protect Nineveh?

I wonder if I can believe that God wants to be like a sheltering roof for all people? I wonder if there are people I might not want to share that roof with? What do I want to say to God about that?

I wonder where God is when I can’t see his protecting love? Can I talk to God about that right now?

I wonder how Daniel felt when he heard the king’s new law? The Bible doesn’t tell us: I wonder if he was afraid when he went up to pray? Or I wonder if he loved coming close to God so much that he couldn’t imagine changing his ways?

I wonder if I have a practice of coming close to God? Or I wonder if I find it hard, or scary, or boring to try to pray? Can I talk to God about that? Can I trust that all of my words to God are prayer, and that God loves to hear them?

I wonder what the pit with the lions looked like inside? I wonder what it smelled like? I wonder what Daniel felt as he was lowered into it?

I wonder how the messenger from God appeared to Daniel? I wonder what it was like to spend the night close to those lions, after their mouths had been shut? I wonder what Daniel said to God?

Can I believe that the God who was with Daniel is the same God who is close to me right now? Can I trust that this God is still faithful and will come to save? As we continue to wait in Advent, what do I want to say to God?

Living God, you deliver and rescue your people. Help us to tell others about the ways you have delivered and rescued us, so that they will honor and trust you too.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is Esther’s crown. Queen Esther bravely protected God’s people when they were living far away in another land.

I wonder how Esther felt as she fasted and prepared to go in to see the king? The story doesn’t mention God’s name: I wonder if she felt confident that God was with her and her people?

I wonder what it was like to be one of God’s people living in Persia? To know that you were different, and that this was not your home? To know that powerful people might want to hurt you for being different?

I wonder if I have ever felt like an outsider, or like I was different from the people around me? I wonder if I felt like my story wasn’t their story? What do I want to say to God about that feeling?

I wonder if I have ever felt like God put me somewhere for a reason? I wonder if there are people or places in my life right now where God has good work for me to do? Can I ask God to help me trust him to do loving work through me?

In this story, God’s people are scattered. They are living in a far away land, with a foreign king. I wonder if they were hoping for God to return and save them again? As I wait in Advent, can I hope today for Jesus to come for us with his saving love?

Our providing, all-knowing God, you work in the world in ways we cannot see. You see to it that we are put in places where we can do your work. Help us to be brave when we need to, and to trust your providence because you hold our entire world in your hands.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is Isaiah’s scroll. Isaiah and other prophets came close to God, and wrote down God’s promises. One of these promises was a coming child, who would grow up and be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His kingdom will last forever, and he will make everything that is broken in our world right again.

I wonder how I feel when I am in the dark. Do I feel frightened? Alone? Secret? What do I want to say to God about the times I am in the dark?

I wonder how God’s people felt when they heard these promises from Isaiah? I wonder what it was like to know that God promised to shine light on them, even though they were walking in darkness?

I wonder how these words to Judah from long, long ago are also words for me, today? What do I want to say to God about these promises?

I wonder if I am getting tired of waiting for Christmas? I wonder if I am eager for Jesus to come and live among us, and for the celebration to begin? Is there anything I want to tell God about waiting?

Thank you, saving God, for the words of the prophets. Thank you that they are still words for us today. Give us faith and hope as we wait for your light to shine on us.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is fire. When Israel turned away from God and worshipped other gods, Elijah the prophet called them back. God sent fire down on Elijah’s sacrifice, to show Israel that he heard Elijah’s prayers and wanted to hear their prayers, too.

I wonder if I can imagine being in the crowd, watching the priests of Baal call out to their god? I wonder how the people felt, knowing that their king was on Baal’s side? I wonder what it was like, to see Elijah alone standing against them? Can I imagine how I would have felt?

I wonder why Elijah poured water all over his sacrifice?

I wonder if I can imagine seeing the fire come down from the sky and burn up Elijah’s altar? What would I have done if I were there?

I wonder how God’s people felt when they realized that God, not Baal, was near and waiting for their prayers? I wonder if they were afraid? Sorry? Ready to turn around and follow when they remembered who God is, and what God had done?

We may forget about God, but God never forgets us. God is always near, and waits patiently for us to remember and return. I wonder how I can remember that God is close to me today?

God, you listen for the prayers of your people. You want us to call on your name and you hear us when we cry out. Hear us now, O Lord, and come quickly to save us.

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a lyre, which is a kind of harp. King David played songs of praise to God on the lyre. David was Israel’s greatest king, and he showed the people how to love and trust God.

I wonder how Samuel knew which of Jesse’s sons God had chosen to be king? I wonder what it was like to come so close to God, and to have God come so close to him?

I wonder how Samuel felt as he watched each of Jesse’s tall, strong, full-grown sons pass in front of him? I wonder what it was like to wait and watch for God to say, “Yes”?

God said to Samuel, “The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outside of a person. But the LORD looks at what is in the heart.” I wonder what God saw when he looked at David’s heart? I wonder why David was the one who could lead God’s people and help them come close to God?

I wonder what God sees when he looks at my heart? Can I believe that God does not look at what people see? Can I believe that God is always looking at me with love?

Wise and holy God, people look at appearances, but you look at the heart. Give us hearts that trust you to deliver us.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is David’s sling. When everyone else in Israel was afraid, David trusted God to deliver his people. David grew to be a king who showed Israel how to love and trust the LORD.

I wonder what it was like to see tall, strong, armored Goliath challenging Israel’s army every day. I wonder if they were frightened? Discouraged? I wonder if God felt small and far away in the face of such a mighty warrior?

Has there been a time when I’ve been so frightened that I have forgotten to trust in God? Has there ever been a time when God felt smaller than the things I am afraid of? What do I want to say to God about that?

I wonder what Saul and the Israelite army were thinking about when David walked out to meet Goliath. I wonder if they were trembling and scared to watch? Or I wonder if his trust in God made them feel more brave? Can I imagine myself there? How would I have felt as I watched David stand face to face with Goliath?

I wonder if there are times when it is hard to see that God is for me? Can I ask God to help me be confident that his love will always save, and will never fail?

Mighty God, if you are for us, who can be against us? Help us to trust in you. Help us not to be afraid. Help us to wait for you to save us, because you are faithful and strong.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is Samuel’s oil. Samuel learned to listen to God. Because he listened and trusted in God’s words, Samuel knew who God would choose to be king over Israel. God gave Samuel the job of anointing, or setting apart, the king.

I wonder what God’s voice sounded like to Samuel? I wonder what he felt when he heard his name spoken in the dark?

I wonder what it was like to come so close to God that Samuel could recognize and trust his words? I wonder if I have ever been confident, like Samuel, that God’s words are true and I can trust them? Can I ask God to help me trust and follow his voice?

I wonder if it’s hard to listen sometimes. Do I have trouble making my heart and mind quiet? Can I ask God to come close to me, even when I have trouble coming close to God?

I wonder if God has ever felt far away, or hard to hear? Are there people in my life who can speak God’s words of love to me when I have trouble hearing them? What do I want to say to God about that?

In Advent, we are waiting for Jesus. The Bible tells us that Jesus is God’s Word to us. I wonder how I can learn to listen to Jesus? Can I ask God to help me to trust that Jesus’ love and life are for me?

Patient God, we want to hear your words. We want to know you better. Help us to learn to listen for you quietly, and to follow you when you speak.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a head of grain. Ruth gathered grain in Boaz’s fields, and he was kind to her. God brought Ruth into his family, and she became the great-grandmother of Israel’s greatest king.

I wonder how Ruth felt, as she stepped out into Boaz’s fields, surrounded by strange workers and strange scenery? I wonder what it was like, to be alone and so far from home?

I wonder if I have ever felt like a stranger in a new place? What did I do? How did that feel on the inside? What do I want to say to God about that time?

I wonder what Boaz’s voice sounded like as he welcomed Ruth? Have I ever been welcomed by someone? Has someone ever spoken kindly to me when I was afraid? Can I say thank you to God for that time?

Have I ever noticed someone who was new at my school? At my church? Can I ask God to help me welcome others when they may feel different or afraid?

Ruth moved from being an outsider to the very middle of God’s story. She is one of Jesus’ ancestors! I wonder what this story shows me about who God is, and what God is like?

We are halfway through Advent, and we are seeing God’s family grow. We are waiting for the time when God will keep his promise to save his people, and bring all of us into his family in Jesus. Can I say thank you to God for each of these stories? How can I wait for God to come and save today?

Kind and gracious God, thank you for bringing us into your family, even when we were outsiders like Ruth. Thank you for having a place for everyone at your table.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the shofar, which is a musical instrument made from a ram’s horn. God brought the people into the Promised Land, and saved them when they blew the shofar outside of Jericho.

I wonder how it felt to walk silently around those tall, strong city walls for seven days? I wonder if it would be hard to keep my body and voice quiet? I wonder what it was like to trust that God and God alone would bring the walls down?

I wonder what the sound of the seven shofars was like, as they sounded off the city walls? I wonder how it felt to finally be able to shout aloud to God, after being silent for so long?

I wonder, is it ever hard for me to believe that God is strong and will keep his promises? What can make me feel that way? What do I want to say to God about that?

I wonder if there has ever been a time when I felt confident and safe in God’s mighty love? What did that feel like inside my body? Can I say thank you to God for that time?

I wonder how this story can help us in Advent? Can I ask God to walk with me as I wait, just as the Israelites waited outside Jericho? Can I get ready to raise my voice to celebrate, when God arrives to save?

Mighty God, you fought for your people at Jericho. Help us to trust in your strength, like Joshua and like the Israelites. Thank you that we do not have to fight for ourselves or save ourselves, because you are our strength and our shield.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the two tablets of the law. God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on Mt Sinai, and Moses gave them to God’s people. The Ten Commandments teach us how to love God and how to love one another.

I wonder what it was like, to be with God’s people and wandering in the wilderness? I wonder what God’s people said to God when they felt lost and afraid?

I wonder if I have ever been lost? I wonder if there is a time when I didn’t know the way I should go? What do I want to say to God about that time?

I wonder how following these ways can help me love God more? I wonder how they can help me love other people? Is there anything I want to ask God about his good ways?

I wonder what happens when people break God’s ways? I don’t always follow the ways into God’s presence. I wonder how God comes close to us, when we fail to come close to God?

In Advent, we remember that we don’t stay in God’s presence, so we are waiting for God to come and live among us. I wonder what it is like to rest safely in God’s presence? I wonder how I can practice that right now.

Holy and loving God, you have given us your ways as a gift. Forgive us when we break them. Thank you for coming to live with us, and for adopting us into your family. Teach us to walk in your ways, and to show others with all of our lives the way into your loving presence too.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the burning bush. God spoke to Moses from the burning bush and promised to save his people.

I wonder what it was like to see that bush, wreathed in dancing flames but still itself? Can I see anything about God in that picture?

I wonder why Moses was afraid to look at God? I wonder what about the sight of the bush, or the words God spoke, made him turn his face away?

I wonder if God’s people felt like God had forgotten them, trapped as slaves in Egypt? I wonder if they were waiting for God to come save them, or if they had given up? Does it ever feel like God has forgotten me? What do I want to say to God about that?

I wonder if there is anything I want to ask God to see? Is there anyone I know who is hurting and needs God to come close? Are there any parts of me that I want God to see and come close to?

I wonder if I can sit quietly for a moment with God’s name. “I AM WHO I AM.” Can I ask God to teach me who he is?

God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, you are our God too. You are living, and you are the God who saves. Help us to come close to you, and to know you like Moses did.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is Joseph’s colored coat. God was with Joseph. Even though his brothers tried to hurt him, God used Joseph to save his family.

I wonder how Joseph’s brothers felt when Jacob gave him that beautiful robe? Has there ever been a time when I felt like someone else was loved more than me? How does that feel on the inside? What do I want to say to God about that feeling?

I wonder how Joseph felt, as he sat at the bottom of that dark, dank well? Or as he was led away to a strange land as a slave, by strangers? Was he afraid? Did he miss his father? Did he call for his mother?

Has there ever been a time when I have been really, really afraid? Has there ever been a time when I felt like nothing good would happen again? Can I let God come close to me and love me, as I remember that feeling?

When Joseph met his brothers, many years later, he forgave them -- not because what they did was okay, but because he knew that God had been with him at every step of the way, from the well, across the desert, and into Egypt. I wonder if there are places in my life where it’s hard to see God with me? What do I want to say to God about those places?

God, you are always with us. God, you are strong. You are always at work, and you can turn evil to good. God, you are forgiving, and you help us to forgive. We love you.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol shows Jacob’s ladder. God came close to Jacob, even when Jacob ran away.

I wonder how Jacob felt, as he pretended to be his brother and stole Esau’s blessing? I wonder if he was nervous? Triumphant? Afraid of being caught?

I wonder, have I ever wanted something good that belonged to someone else? What does that feel like on the inside? Is there anything I want to say to God about that feeling?

I wonder, has someone else ever taken something good that should have been mine? How did I feel on the inside? How did I act on the outside? Is there anything I want to say to God about that time?

Esau was so angry with his brother that Jacob had to run away and hide. I wonder, have I ever felt like hiding or running away because of something I have done?

When Jacob was running away from his family, God’s blessing went with him. I wonder, can I trust that God is always close to me, even when I feel like running or hiding? Can I tell God thank you for never, ever letting me go?

I wonder if there are times when it feels like the wrong person is getting a blessing. I wonder if sometimes I think I don’t deserve God’s blessing? Can I believe that in Advent, we are waiting for Jesus to come and find everyone who has done wrong and tried to run away?

Ever-present God, you never leave us alone. You remind us, over and over again, that we are a part of your family and that your promises are for us, no matter what we do. Thank you that we belong to you.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a ram. Abraham trusted God, and God was faithful to Abraham. God gave Abraham a ram for a sacrifice, instead of his only son.

I wonder what Abraham felt like on the inside, as he hiked up the mountain with Isaac, the fire, and the wood. I wonder what he said to God?

I wonder if there has been a time when God’s words did not seem good to me? Has there been a time when I felt like God’s promises were coming untrue? What can I say to God about that?

I wonder if there has been a time when I have seen God provide? Can I rest in that moment? How can I carry that moment with me today?

The angel, or messenger, of the LORD said to Abraham, “Now I know that you would do anything for God. You have not held back from me your son, your only son.” In Advent, we wait for God’s only Son, Jesus, who came into the world to live with us and die for us. I wonder: can it be true that God would do anything for us? What can I say to God about this great gift of love?

Generous God, you are our faithful provider. You did not spare your own Son, but gave him up for all of us. Help us to trust you no matter what, like Abraham did, because you are good.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a sky full of stars. God promised to give Abraham a family larger than the number of the stars.

Can I remember a time when it was hard to wait for something? How did I feel? Can I ask God to stay close to me when I am impatient?

Right now, we are waiting for Christmas. We are also waiting for Jesus to come again, and make everything right. Can I ask Jesus to help me trust his promise to come live with us again?

God gave Abram and Sarai new names, to tell them who they would be. I wonder who God says that I am? Can I trust and believe that I am God’s beloved child?

I wonder if Abraham could imagine just how big God’s promise to him was? Can I say thank you to God that I was a part of this promise, too, long, long ago?

Faithful God, you kept your promise to Abraham and Sarah. You gave them a son. Help us as we wait this Advent for your promised Son. We give you praise because you always keep your promises!

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the ark and the rainbow. In the flood, God washed the earth clean. In baptism, we are washed and given new life.

I wonder what it was like to see the water rising from inside the ark? Can I imagine myself there? I wonder if all of creation looked undone?

I wonder if the wind that blew the waters dry was like the Spirit that moved over the waters in Genesis 1? As the waters dried up, was it like seeing the world being made be made again?

I wonder what new things grew, after the earth dried and the sun came out again?

I wonder what God sees when he looks down on our world today? I wonder what needs to be washed clean and made new? In my town? In my school? In my family? In me?

I wonder what new things God wants to grow in my life? Can I talk to God about that?

Gracious God, you love us too much to let us stay lost and apart. Thank you for keeping your promises, and thank you for the waters of baptism, where you wash away sin and give us new life.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is the serpent and the fruit. When God’s people listened to the serpent instead of God, they sinned. But God loved them so much that he did not leave them alone: God’s Son came to save the people who had turned away.

I wonder what it was like to live in the garden with God? To walk with God? To talk with God? Can I imagine being close to God, too?

I wonder what it felt like, to suddenly be afraid of God? Have I ever wanted to hide from someone who loves me? How does that feel in my body? In my heart?

Are there parts of me what I want to hide from my family? From my friends? From God? Can I believe that God always wants to come find me?

This story ended in a sad place. During Advent, we remember that our world is still broken and sad, and that God has promised to make it right. What needs to be made right in my heart? In my family? In my school? In my city? Can I ask Jesus to come and save?

Holy God, thank you for never letting us go. Thank you that even though people disobeyed, you refuse to stay apart from us. Thank you that you have promised us a Savior. Come and rescue us, and turn our steps so that we walk toward you.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is our planet, Earth. God made the world and everything in it, and God made everything good.

I wonder what is good about the place where I live, and the creation around me? How can I say “thank you” to God?

I wonder why we forget that God gave us this earth as a good gift? How can I help take care of it?

I wonder how I show God’s image to the people around me? Can I say “thank you” to God for making me?

Are there parts inside of me that feel empty or confusing, like the waters before God spoke? I wonder how God’s Holy Spirit is hovering near and looking at those parts of me with love?

I wonder how the people in my family show me something about what God is like? Do I remember that my friends are also made in God’s image? My brothers and sisters, even when we fight? People at school I may not like? I wonder how I can see that every person I meet is special to God?

During Advent, we remember that God came to live in this world and that he will come back to us again. I wonder how I can wait for Jesus during Advent?

Loving God, you made us for yourself. We belong to you. Thank you for this beautiful world, and for the people in it. Help us to take care of it, just as you told us to do. And teach us to always look for your image in other people, and to love them because you do.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Today’s symbol is a tree stump, with a little shoot growing out of the top. This tree stump is a Jesse Tree: it reminds us of Jesus’ family tree, and the family tree of all God’s people.

I wonder what needs to be made right today? In my heart? In my family? In my world?

I wonder how my heart is like a dead tree stump? What in me needs some water, some air, some love?

I wonder how Jesus can grow new things in my heart? In my family? In my friendships? In my world?

I wonder what it will be like, when Jesus’ kingdom comes. Can I imagine a world where a wolf will live with a lamb, and no one will hurt or destroy? Can I imagine a time when everyone knows and trusts God’s love for them? What can I say to God about that time?

I wonder how I can wait for Jesus during Advent? How can I make space for Jesus, and for his kingdom, in my heart? In my life? How can I invite Jesus into my world?

Faithful God, thank you for keeping your promises. Help us see the ways that you are faithful, even when your people are not. Thank you that you are bringing a world where the weak and the strong will live together in peace. Help us wait for your coming, and we pray that these stories of Jesus’ family tree will teach us to be faithful and prayerful as we wait for you to make all things new.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Do you know what the word Advent means? It’s an old word that means “coming,” or “arrival.” Advent is the season when we remember the first time God arrived in our world: he came to live among us as a baby boy born in Bethlehem! And Advent is also the season when wait for Jesus to come again to our world and make everything right.

Each day in Advent, we will remember a special symbol and share a story about the people who waited for Jesus long ago. Join me as we wait together for God.

Because we want to hear children share what they wonder about, and to lead us in giving thanks to God.

Because we want to cultivate the practice of wonder, engagement with, and curiosity about the God who made us, and who is at work in our world.

Because we want to sit with the people who have been the characters in God's saving story, and the witnesses to God's work in the world.

Today: Why a Scripture podcast for children?

Because the Bible we have, in all its complexity, is the Bible God wants us to have! Sometimes it is hopeful and comforting; sometimes it's strange and scary -- so we enter its world together, with wonder.

First up: Why do we wait together during Advent?

Because this season reminds us that we are a waiting people.

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you soon!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

Thank you for being a great community and wondering along with us this season. We'll be back on Tuesday, picking up where we left off for real this time.

Today we're continuing in Paul's letter to the Galatians: we're reading and wondering about Galatians 3:15-18. Want to follow along, or revisit something again? The passage, reflection, and wonder questions are all available, all season long, at wewonderpod.com/blog — you can also comment and share your own reflections on the passage!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Tuesday!

And don't forget to stay up to date by following us on Twitter and Instagram: just look for @wewonderpod. Thanks for listening, stay in touch, and I'll see you on Thursday!

To kick off the season, executive producer Richard Clark sits down for an interview with We Wonder host Sarah Dahl. They chat about the beginning of We Wonder; why we approach Scripture the way we do; and what to look forward to in this season!

This Fall, twice a week, we'll be reading our way through Paul's letter to the Galatians. This is the first time we've done something like this: we're really going to dig in. Every Tuesday and Thursday, we'll read a short section, wonder about what was happening in Galatia and why Paul wrote the letter, and how his words to his friends so long ago are good words for us, today. I have learned so much as I've prepared for this season, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Of course, sometimes reading Paul can be hard work! He has so much to say, and his words can be really rich. So of course we'll also make time to get quiet, wonder slowly, and talk with God about what we've heard. I hope you'll join us this fall.

Oh, and I'd love for you to stay connected with me and other listeners on Instagram and Twitter as well. You can follow me in both places @wewonderpod. Thanks so much for joining me, and I'll see you on August 23 for a special episode before we begin wondering together!

Nick and Noah return with a series of (mainly basketball) conversations about nostalgic moments in NBA history, current issues plaguing the league, how coping and mental health play a role in sports, and more.

Tune-in as they unprofessionally, but sincerely explore why sports are bigger than just the score of the game. Subscribe now, and follow along to find out how many times Noah makes an unwarranted Kansas Jayhawks basketball reference.

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feelforthegamepod/

✌️

Season 1 premiering on June 4th! Available on all platforms.

To find out more about the podcast, listen to the introductory episode here.

Subscribe and follow on Instagram at wildwoodflowerpod to stay updated on new episodes and special announcements.

📖 READ

Mark 15:42 - 16:8

❔ WONDER

Mark tells us that Joseph of Arimathea has been waiting for God's kingdom. I wonder how he felt now, burying the man who had promised that he was bringing that kingdom? I wonder why he goes to the trouble and the expense?

Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome have been following Jesus all the way from Galilee. They have listened to his teaching and seen his miracles; they have made food for him and his friends and helped to care for them on the road. After all this time, I wonder what it was like to stand in front of that tomb and see the stone seal Jesus' dead body inside?

Now can I imagine the three women walking in the early morning light to the tomb? It is springtime, and the air is fresh and probably still a little chilly. Maybe their fingers are cold, and they are wondering how they will move the large stone so they can get inside and care for Jesus's body. I wonder if they have slept much in the past few days, and if they have been crying. I wonder how they feel as they go to care for Jesus one last time?

I wonder how the women felt in their bodies when they stepped into the tomb? Did they feel a jolt of shock and fear shoot through them? Did they cry, because they couldn't see or touch the one that they loved one last time? Maybe there was a tiny, unbelievable bud of hope starting to open up in their hearts that Jesus really could be alive after all?

Mark leaves us all here, standing in front of an empty tomb. We have followed Jesus throughout the season of Lent, and this is where he has led. I wonder if Mark wants us to trust that now it is time to follow Jesus again, out of the tomb and into the brightness of new and unending life?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story that I want to carry with me into the rest of my day? 

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Thank you for going into death for us, and rising to live and share your eternal life with us. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 15:1-41

❔ WONDER

No one in this story can see what is really happening. The soldiers make fun of Jesus by bowing down to him, but he really is God's king. People mock him for saying he can raise a ruined temple in three days when they are destroying the body that God will raise. And they say he cannot save himself by coming down from the cross, when he is saving us all by dying there. Right now, can I ask Jesus to help me truly see his love and his power in this story?

One person does see. When Jesus dies, the Roman commander can truly see that he is the Son of God. I wonder what this soldier sees, in the sad and broken person on the cross? Can I ask Jesus to help me, as I look up at his cross, to see and believe that he is God's Son, the one who has come to save our world?

Jesus is silent in this story until the very end. Right before he dies, he cries out the words of Psalm 22: "My God, my God, why have you deserted me?" And then he falls silent again, and the temple curtain is torn apart. Jesus, the Son of God, loses his connection with his Father so that I can enter into God's presence forever. Can I quietly thank Jesus for his deep love and gift to me right now?

The story ends with women who followed Jesus all the way from Galilee. The disciples ran away, but these women stayed with Jesus to the end. Can I ask Jesus right now to help me always follow him, wherever his road will lead?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now, or carry with me into the rest of my day? 

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you for going to the cross for us. Thank you for a love that even death cannot break. Help us to trust in that love and follow where you lead, all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 14:66-72

❔ WONDER

I wonder if Peter could hear what was happening inside the house, as he stood outside warming himself by the fire? Could he hear the group inside yelling, spitting at, and hitting Jesus? I wonder how that would make him feel, sitting outside and surrounded by the temple guards?

I wonder what feeling went through Peter's body when the servant girl stopped, looked at him, and said out loud, "You were also with Jesus!"?

Have I ever told a baldfaced lie, like Peter does here? How does it feel to know one thing is true, and to say that it is not?

When the rooster crows, Peter remembers Jesus's words. I wonder what it was for like for Peter to see that Jesus knew him even better than he knew himself? How would it feel to suddenly see that Jesus knew, all along, I would desert him?

When the rooster crows, it also proves that Jesus's words are true. He is not a false prophet; the accusations against him are lies. I wonder what it was like for Peter to realize this, right after turning his back on Jesus?

Has there ever been a time when I did not want someone to know that I, too, have followed and walked with Jesus? What do I want to say to Jesus about that?

When Peter realizes that Jesus's words about him were true, he breaks down and weeps. Jesus has to go to the cross alone; we are not strong enough to do what only God can do. Can I sit with Peter in his sadness and his tears, as we watch Jesus go down into death alone for all of us?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 14:53-65

❔ WONDER

Can I take a moment and put myself into this story? Can I look around and see the courtyard at the high priest's houses? Can I hear the crackle of the fire and feel its warmth in the cold, dark air? Who is with me in the courtyard? How do their faces look? What are people saying, as they rub their hands over the flames and wait outside the house?

I wonder what was happening in Peter's heart, as he sat outside the house where Jesus was being held? Was he looking toward the bright windows, or shrinking into the dark? I wonder what he hoped for, as he sat outside, listened, and watched?

Have I ever been so angry with someone that I wanted everyone else to see how bad they are? Have I ever told a lie to convince people that someone else is wrong and guilty? Have I ever wanted to believe bad things about someone, so I can condemn them in my heart? If so, maybe I know a little bit about how the priests and the rulers on the Sanhedrin felt about Jesus that night. Can I talk with Jesus about that right now?

Can I quietly picture Jesus, standing in the middle of the room while people told lies about him? I wonder why he remained silent? I wonder why he didn't fight or argue back?

Finally, Jesus says very clearly who he is. And he says that God will prove that he is right and these leaders are wrong: he will be seated, one day, at God's right hand. How do I respond to Jesus, when he tells me who he is? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 14:43-52

❔ WONDER

I wonder how Jesus's friends felt, when they saw Judas appear out of the darkness leading the crowd? What thoughts might have gone through their head when they realized what he was doing there, and they knew that he had betrayed Jesus?

I wonder how Judas felt as he approached Jesus? I wonder if he looked into Jesus's eyes, or if he looked at any of his other 11 friends?

All through Mark's gospel, crowds have followed Jesus everywhere he has gone. What feels different to me about this crowd, on this night? What has changed in the story?

I wonder how it felt to the disciples to be surrounded by this crowd, in the dark of night outside the city, armed with swords and clubs? Can I imagine being there with them? What feelings might be running through my body? What thoughts might be going through my mind?

I wonder how it felt to see Jesus grabbed, hard, by the crowd and arrested? I wonder why this was the moment when the disciples stopped following him?

One of Jesus's followers was so frightened that when the crowd grabbed his clothes, he let them rip them away and ran away naked. Can I remember any other times in the Bible when someone was hiding, naked, in a garden? I wonder why Mark includes this part of the story?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 14:27-42

❔ WONDER

Jesus has shepherded his little group of friends all through the gospel of Mark: he calls them together, he teaches them, and he leads them throughout the countryside and down into Jerusalem. I wonder why they will all run away like frightened sheep when he is arrested?

I wonder how Jesus's voice sounded when he looked at his friends and said, "You will all turn away?"

Jesus tells Peter that on this very night, before the rooster crows to announce the morning, he will say three times that he doesn't even know Jesus, his teacher and dear friend. Can I imagine how Peter might have felt when he heard those words? 

I wonder why Peter was so sure he would never, ever deny Jesus? 

Throughout Mark's gospel, Jesus has been in charge: teaching, leading, feeding people, arguing with the temple leaders. I wonder what it was like for his friends to see him so upset and troubled tonight?

In Jesus' time, people usually stood up to pray, and they lifted their hands toward the sky. I wonder why Jesus falls on the ground as he begs God to take away the cup of suffering that is coming to him?

Jesus's friends are sleepy after a long day and a big meal. I wonder why it is so hard for them to keep watch and stay awake with Jesus, when they can see that he is clearly sad and afraid?

Jesus tells Peter to stay awake; to watch and pray — but Peter, and the other disciples, cannot. Right now, can I sit quietly and watch with Jesus? Can I try to stay close with him as I remember the sadness and fear that he went through on that night? What do I want to say to Jesus about what he has done for me?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 14:12-26

❔ WONDER

Passover is a feast that tells a story. Each of the foods reminds people of how God rescued them from Egypt and brought them safely through the waters of the Red Sea. People eat lamb, to remember the lambs that were killed and the blood that they put on the doorposts, as the Angel of Death passed through Egypt. They eat bread without any leaven, or yeast, because it had to be baked quickly for the escape. I wonder what Jesus' friends were thinking about as they prepared these special foods to share with him? I wonder if they were hoping he would do new and mighty miracles on this Passover, like Moses did long ago?

Jesus and his friends met in an upstairs room, out of sight and hidden away, to share this Passover meal. They knew that Jesus had enemies in the city who were looking for him. I wonder what the atmosphere in that room, during that meal was like? 

Jesus and these twelve friends have been together for a long time now. They have traveled together, talked and prayed together; they have watched Jesus heal the sick, preach to crowds, and cast out evil spirits . Now they are tucked away together in a dangerous city. Can I imagine sitting at the table with Jesus, after all this time, and hearing him say that one of us is going to hand him over to his enemies? How does that make me feel?

In this time, people didn't use forks and knives. They used their bread like a utensil, and dipped it into a bowl. As the dish was passed around the table, each disciple was using some bread to scoop out food. Can I imagine how each of them looked and felt when Jesus said, "It is the one who dips bread into the bowl with me?"

Jesus uses this Passover meal to tell a new story. His body is going to be broken like the bread, and his blood will be poured out like the wine. I wonder how his death is a new kind of Passover?

Long ago, Moses gave God's people the Passover meal, and then he parted the Red Sea waters and led them through into freedom. I wonder how Jesus is like Moses? What is Jesus going to pass through, like the Red Sea, later this week? And will he be able to lead us safely through, too?

We still celebrate this meal today, and say the words that Jesus said. Can I look forward, right now, to the day when we will eat bread and drink wine with Jesus in his kingdom?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 14:1-11

❔ WONDER

This story happens right before Passover. Passover is the festival that remembers and celebrates the time when God led the people out of slavery in Egypt, and safely across the Red Sea into freedom. I wonder why the chief priests and the teachers are afraid there will be a riot if they arrest Jesus during the Passover festival?

In Jesus's time, men and women did not usually sit together at the main table for feasts. They weren't even in the same rooms. I wonder what it was like for this woman to step into a room full of men, with everyone looking at her, and walk straight up to Jesus with her jar of perfume?

Mark doesn't tell us what this woman was thinking, or any words that she spoke. Can I put myself into her place? I wonder what she was thinking about, or feeling, as she broke open her jar and poured the perfume over Jesus's head?

The perfume the woman brought to Simon's house was very expensive. It was made from a plant grown far away in India, and it cost a whole year's worth of wages. I wonder what moved her to pour this costly gift out, all at once, all over Jesus?

Jesus says that this woman poured perfume on his body to get him ready for when he is buried. What a strange thing to say at the dinner table! I wonder if this woman understood the way that Jesus would die, and that there might not be time to care for his body well when it happened?

Jesus says that "what she has been done will be told anywhere the goods news is preached all over the world; it will be told in memory of her." What this woman did for Jesus was that important. So I wonder why we do not even know her name?

Jerusalem is a city with many twisting alleys, courtyards, and dark corners. It would be hard for the chief priests and their guards to find Jesus without help. I wonder what happened in Judas's mind and heart as he followed Jesus? I wonder why he agreed to help the chief priests find and arrest Jesus?

Today is the last day before Holy Week. Each day, Jesus is getting closer and closer to the cross. As I watch him, is there anything I want to pour out to him, to give him, or to say to him?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 13:24-37

❔ WONDER

In yesterday's reading, the disciples admired the beautiful temple; but Jesus told them that it would soon be completely destroyed. Today he remembers a passage from the prophet Isaiah about a time when God destroyed the mighty city of Babylon. When Babylon is destroyed, Isaiah says, God's anger will blaze out; it will be like the sun and the moon going dark. I wonder why it will be like this when the temple is torn down too?

In the Hebrew Bible, we can read passages about people from all four directions coming up to the temple to worship. But now Jesus gives us a picture of a new kind of worship: the Son of Man will gather people to himself, instead. I wonder what he wants us to see about how people will come close to God in this new time?

Jesus tells his friends that these things will happen while they are still alive. And they do! The temple is destroyed just forty years later. His words are true, and they do not pass away. Can I believe that the words Jesus speaks to me are trustworthy and true, and that they will hold no matter what?

But Jesus does not tell his friends exactly when this will happen. He does not give them a date on the calendar. He insists on leaving the right time up to God. I wonder if that was hard for them to hear?

Jesus tells his friends to stay awake, and to watch. I wonder why it is so important for them to be ready? I wonder if God is coming to them in a new way, just like the owner of the house? I wonder how they can be ready to welcome God, and the work he will give them to do?  

This part of Mark is about the temple: Jesus is answering his friends' questions about the time when the temple will be torn down. But it is also a word for us today. After Jesus was raised from the dead, he went back to be with God, and we know that he will come to be with us again. I wonder how I can be ready to welcome him, and to long for the day when he will come home and make this world new?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 13:1-23

❔ WONDER

In Jesus's time, the temple that Herod built was one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. It was the largest and most impressive building in all of Jerusalem. To help me understand, I think of the most impressive buildings I've ever seen: maybe the US Capitol, or Westminster Abbey, or maybe a giant skyscraper in a great city. I wonder what it was like to hear Jesus say that it would be completely torn down and undone?

Jesus's friends want to know when this will happen. When will the building that is the most important place to come close to God be torn down and torn apart? Who will do it? How can they be ready? I wonder how it felt to hear Jesus speak these hard and scary words?

Jesus says that terrible things will happen before Jerusalem is invaded and the temple is torn down. He says that these things — wars, earthquakes, famine — are like birth pangs. They the painful things, like strong contractions in a mother's body, that will happen before a new age is born. I wonder what new thing is born when the temple is torn down, and people need a new place to come close to God?

Jesus also tells his friends that as this new age comes close, they will also suffer. But he promises that in their suffering, they will tell good news about him to all the nations. I wonder why all the Gentile nations need to hear about Jesus as the one who brings us close to God before the temple is destroyed?

Roman armies marched into Jerusalem about 40 years after Jesus spoke these words. Roman soldiers walked into the Holy of Holies, and they carried off the beautiful things inside. To the Jewish people who worshiped there, it must have felt like the end of the world. I wonder why Jesus says that when that happens, people should run away instead of staying to fight and protect the temple?

I wonder why Jesus tells his friends all about this ahead of time? I wonder why it is important for them to be ready?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 12:28-44

❔ WONDER

Yesterday we heard the Pharisees, the Herodians, and the Sadducees all come and ask Jesus questions. They tried to trap him and to trick him. I wonder how this the man who comes to ask Jesus about the commandments is different? I wonder what he hoped for when he came to speak with Jesus?

Jesus repeats Moses's words. The first and most important commandment is to love God with all of my heart, my soul, my mind, and my strength. I wonder what my life would look like if I obeyed that commandment fully? Would my life change at all or look different?

I wonder if it is possible for me to love God with all of myself perfectly all the time? Does that sometimes feel impossible? Can I talk with the God who loves me and will make me new about that right now?

The other most important commandment is to love my neighbor as I love myself. Can I ask God, right now, to show me a way I can do this today?

The prophet Jeremiah tells us that a time is coming when God will write his commandments on our hearts. They will be a part of us. Can I ask God to work in me, write these words on my heart, and teach me to love and follow these good ways?

After Jesus gave this answer about, I wonder why no one else dared to ask him any more questions?

Jesus says that the Messiah, God's chosen king, is the Lord who is even more important than King David. But when this king comes, he does not put himself in an important place; instead, he gives up his life to save people. I wonder how that is different from religious leaders who like to have people listen to them, and to notice and respect them? 

Can I imagine sitting with Jesus, and watching people put their offerings into a money box? Can I picture the rich people, stuffing the box full of their offerings? And then can I hear the sad clink of the two small coins put in by the poor widow? Whose offering seems like it is the most important, or will do the most good? 

Can I ask Jesus, right now, to help me see the way that he does? Can I believe that the poor widow's gift is more valuable and important than all of the rich people's money?

I wonder if that poor widow can show me something about God? When God comes to us in Jesus, does he hold anything back? Or does he give us all that he has?

I wonder how the poor widow can show me something about following God's greatest commandments?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now, or carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 12:13-27

❔ WONDER

These leaders are asking Jesus a tricky question that can get him in trouble no matter how he answers. If he says you should pay taxes to Rome, then the crowd following Jesus will be angry. They hate the Romans and want them to leave their land. But if he says you should not pay, then he will be in trouble with the Roman leaders. Can I imagine being one of Jesus's friends, listening to the leaders asking him this trick question? How do I feel, as they go to hunt up a coin and I wait for Jesus to respond? Am I nervous to see what he will say?

How do I feel when I hear the answer that Jesus finally gives?

Mark tells us that when Jesus answers them, the religious leaders are amazed: they marvel and wonder at him. I wonder why that wonder doesn't turn in to love and worship?

A picture of Caesar's face is stamped onto his coin. And God's image is stamped on every single person. I wonder what Jesus is teaching us to do, when he says to give back to God what belongs to God? 

Can I believe, right now, that I belong to God? Can I trust that I bear God's image in a special way in this world? Can I talk with God right now about how I can give myself back to the one who has made me, and who loves me very much?

Now the Sadducees come to Jesus with a very different question. If I am one of Jesus's followers walking with him through Jerusalem, I wonder how I feel about all of these different groups coming to test Jesus, one after another? I wonder if I might begin to feel like he was under attack from all sides?

The Sadducees are trying to make the idea of resurrection — of God bringing new life out of death — sound silly. If a woman is married to seven men, whose wife is she when they are all raised? They seem to think resurrection is just bringing people back to the life they had before they died. But Jesus says they do not understand resurrection at all. I wonder how their idea of being raised to a new life is too small, or too limited?

Resurrection is God's power to re-make all things: our Creator God can even raise people out of death into a new and completely transformed life. I wonder if that is why Jesus tells the Sadducees that they do not understand the power of God?

Can I trust and believe right now that God loves me, and loves my world, so much that he will re-make me and re-make the world? Can I hope that just as Jesus is raised from death to a new and transformed life, I will be too? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 12:1-12

❔ WONDER

In this story that Jesus has told, I wonder why the people renting the farm refuse to share any of the fruit with the owner? I wonder why they think they can just keep it all for themselves?

I wonder why the renters keep treating each of the messengers so badly? They refuse to give the farm owner some of his own fruit, and they also beat up and even kill the servants that he sends. I wonder why they are so violent against people who serve their farm's owner?

I wonder what the farm owner expects will happen when he sends his son?

The renters know that the farm they are living on will someday be given to the owner's son, as his inheritance. I wonder what they think will happen when they kill the son?

Mark tells us that the chief priests and the teachers of the law know that this story is about them. I wonder how they are like the renters in this story? How are the prophets in the Old Testament like the servants who come to collect the fruit? And where is God in this story?

At his baptism, God's Holy Spirit came down on Jesus and everyone heard these words: "You are my Son, and I love you." Jesus has come into Jerusalem like a king, and acted like he has authority there: almost like the place belongs to him! I wonder why they chief priests and the teachers of the law are so unwilling to follow him?

The Son in this story is killed. I wonder how Jesus's friends felt, as they heard him tell it? I wonder if they really believed Jesus would be killed too, or if they still hoped he could become King of Israel without suffering or rejection?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 11:27-33

❔ WONDER

Can I put myself, for just a moment, in the place of the chief priests and the teachers of the law? It is their job to oversee and run the temple — and now this man from far away Nazareth has come into town and is acting as though *he* has the authority there. How would watching Jesus's entry into Jerusalem and his actions at the temple make me feel, if I was one of them?

I wonder how their voices sounded when they asked Jesus, "Who gave you the authority to do this?" I wonder if it sounded something like, "Just who, exactly, do you think you are?"

The very first Temple was planned by King David, and built by King Solomon. True authority over the temple belongs to God's anointed king. I wonder if Jesus is coming into Jerusalem like a king who has been anointed — that is, blessed and chosen by God — but is not yet seated on his throne? 

I wonder what Jesus's throne in Jerusalem is going to look like?

Instead of answering their question, Jesus asks a question right back at the chief priests and the teachers. He asks if they believe that John's work and words really were sent by God. I wonder why this was such a hard question for them to answer?

Do you remember when Jesus was baptized by John, all the way back in Mark chapter 1? Heaven was split open, and God's Holy Spirit came down on Jesus, like the oil that is poured over a king's head. I wonder if Jesus is asking the chief priests and the teachers if they can see that he has authority because he is God's chosen king?

When I look at Jesus, and all that he has said and done throughout Mark's book, can I trust that he is God's chosen king? Can I believe that he is the one who has come to bring God's good rule to our world? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 11:12-26

❔ WONDER

Yesterday, Jesus came into Jerusalem for the first time. People welcomed him like Israel's king. They sang, "Hosanna: come save us!" and "we welcome God's kingdom"! Now he is coming back into the city, and walking straight up to the Temple. I wonder what people were hoping he would say and do there?

Can I put myself in the crowds that might have followed him in to the Temple courtyard? Maybe I am hoping he will teach us, or announce that God's kingdom is here and together we will take our city back from the Romans. But suddenly he begins knocking over tables, and chasing people away. Coins are scattering across the ground; birds are flapping everywhere; there is shouting and animal noises and confusion. How would it feel to see Jesus coming into this holy place and begin to turn everything upside down? 

Jesus says that the Temple was first built to be a place where people from all nations could come to learn to worship God, but now it is more like a den for bandits. I wonder how the Temple and the practices that were happening there kept people out, instead of letting them in to come close to God?

In Jesus's time, "robber's dens" were places where people would gather and plot about how they would rob and fight back against the Roman soldiers in their country. They planned how they would kill the strong outsiders who had taken over their land. These robbers, or bandits, wanted the Temple — and all of Jerusalem — to belong to Israel and Israel alone. Then it would truly be God's kingdom. I wonder why Jesus is so angry about this picture of the kingdom of God?

I wonder why Mark tells us the story of the fig tree alongside the story of the Temple? I wonder how the dried up fig tree, that will not provide healthy fruit to people ever again, is like the Temple?

Jesus also teaches his disciples to be bold and confident when they pray for God's good kingdom to come. I wonder, when Jesus points to a mountain and says they can pray for it to be thrown into the sea, if he is pointing to the Temple mount? I wonder if his disciples believed then that God really would make a new way for them to come close?

I wonder if we can be bold and confident when we pray because Jesus has already accomplished everything we need to come close to God? 

It can be hard to pray with that kind of confidence. I don't always believe that what I need from God has already been done for me, or that I have already received it. Can I talk with God about that right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 11:1-11

❔ WONDER

Jesus and his followers are coming from Jericho to Jerusalem. Jericho is the lowest city on earth: it is about 800 feet below sea level. And Jerusalem is high, high up on a hill! They were walking from a low, dry, dusty and hot place up to the Mount of Olives, and then on to Jerusalem — David's city, and the place where you could come close to God in the temple. I wonder if, as they climbed that hard, hot road, their hearts grew lighter and more excited until they could finally glimpse the walls of the 

Jesus and his followers are coming to Jerusalem for Passover. This is the time when all of God's people celebrate how God saved them and carried them out of slavery and into freedom. Jesus has been talking all along the road about God's kingdom coming close. I wonder what the people following Jesus were hoping he would do for them as he came into the city for the festival?

Can I imagine myself in the crowd, as we lay down our coats to make a smooth path for a coming king? How does Jesus look to me, as I see him slowly ride by on the back of a donkey's colt?

The words the people shouted were from Psalm 118. It is a song that celebrates God saving his people, and everyone goes up to Jerusalem to celebrate and sing to him. "Hosanna!" means, "God, save us!" and "Blessed is he who comes" means, "welcome!" Can I cry out both of those things to Jesus right now? "Save us, Son of God! Welcome: let your kingdom come in my life!" 

The people lay down their coats to make a royal road for Jesus — and their coats will be ruined by the dust, the stones, and the donkey's hooves. They wave branches to welcome him in a special way, to come and rule over them and their city. Is there anything I can lay down before Jesus to honor him today? Am I ready to welcome him as the king I will follow?  

After all of this excitement, Jesus comes into the city...and then he looks around a little, and leaves to stay overnight in Bethany. I wonder how his disciples felt at the end of that day?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 10:46-52

❔ WONDER

Can I put myself in this story right now? Can I feel the hot, dusty air on my face and in my lungs as I make my way along the road out of Jericho? Can I feel myself jostled along by the crowd as we follow Jesus towards Jerusalem? How do I feel as we make our way towards the great city? What am I hoping will happen when we get there?  

Now imagine that I hear the voice of a man, calling out from the side of the road, trying to get this big crowd and all of our excited movement to stop. I look over and see that he is a blind beggar, a man who sits by the side of the road asking for people to toss him a coin. How do I feel about his demand for Jesus — and the rest of us — to stop and help him?

I wonder how Bartimaeus felt when he heard that it was Jesus who was passing by? I wonder what he hoped for? I wonder how he was able to believe that Jesus would help him?

Bartimaeus yells out loudly to Jesus, and calls him "Son of David." That's like crying out, "Jesus, King of Israel!" But Israel already had a king, and a Roman governor too. I wonder if that was a dangerous name to call Jesus? I wonder if that is why people wanted him to be quiet?

Can I imagine being Bartimaeus, with all of the people around me saying "be quiet! hush! stop crying out!"? What would I do, as Jesus and the crowd came close and began to pass me by?

How did it sound to Bartimaeus, I wonder, to hear those words: "Cheer up! Get on your feet! Jesus is calling for you"?

Can I imagine Jesus looking straight at me and asking, "What do you want me to do for you?" What would I say to Jesus, if he asked me that right now?

Jesus gives Bartimaeus his sight. Now he no longer has to sit and beg: he can have a new life; he can see his friends and family; he can be back in the world in a new way. I wonder why he chooses, right then, to join the crowd and follow Jesus on the way he will go?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 10:32-45

❔ WONDER

Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem, and the people who are following him there are amazed and afraid. I wonder what they hoped would happen when they got there? I wonder what they feared?

Jerusalem was the city where the Roman soldiers had their headquarters; it was also the city where King Herod ruled. I wonder if Jesus's followers were hoping he would overthrow them all and become the king? 

I wonder what it was like to hear Jesus say, "No. When I go to Jerusalem, the Roman soldiers will arrest me, and I will be killed?" 

It sounds like the disciples had trouble believing Jesus was really serious. I wonder why this picture of God's chosen king was so hard for them to understand?

Jesus tells James and John they do not know what they are asking for, when they ask to sit next to him in glory. When Jesus does finally sit in glory, up on the cross, there are thieves at his right and left. What do I want to say to God about this picture of a king on a throne, and this picture of glory?

Jesus seems to have a very different idea about how to be important in God's kingdom. His ideas are not like our ideas of kings, rulers and important people. Can I talk with God about how I can follow Jesus and his ways today?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now, or carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 10:17-31

❔ WONDER

Can I picture the man running up to Jesus, and falling on his knees? He wants so badly to know how to enter into God's kingdom. I wonder what he expected Jesus to say? I wonder what he hoped to hear?

When Jesus first answers him, he mentions the last 6 of the 10 commandments. The man knows that he has followed these all of his life. I wonder why following these good rules was not enough to enter into God's kingdom?

Jesus looks at him and loves him. Can I imagine Jesus's face as he gazes down at the man? Can I hear the love in his voice as he gives his answer?

The first four commandments are: Put God first. Do not build idols or bow down to them. Do not misuse God's name. And keep the Sabbath day holy. I wonder how all of the man's riches were stopping him from keeping these commandments?

How does this man look to me as he hears Jesus's words? What do I see, as his face falls and he turns and walks away? 

I wonder what I would do if Jesus spoke these words to me. Can I walk with Jesus about that right now?

I wonder why being rich makes it so hard to enter into God's kingdom, God's good rule, over the world?

The disciples are amazed and surprised. Sometimes, we think that people who are rich or successful must be blessed especially by God. I wonder what they were expecting as a reward for following Jesus?

These are hard words, especially for those of us who have more than we need. They may feel impossible. Can I hear Jesus's words to me right now: "With people, this is impossible. But not with God. All things are possible with God."

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to talk with God about right now, or carry with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ

Mark 10:1-16

❔ WONDER

King Herod was married to Herodias, a woman who had been his brother's wife. She had divorced his brother Philip so that she could marry Herod. John the Baptist said that was wrong, and Herodias was so angry that she had John killed. I wonder if this question about divorce was a dangerous question for Jesus to answer in public, too?

I wonder why the Pharisees wanted to test Jesus with this question, in this place near the Jordan River where John used to preach and baptize people?

Jesus says that God joins two people in marriage. Marriage isn't just an earthly agreement between two people; it is a promise in which God brings two people together to make something new. In another place, St Paul says that marriage is a picture of how Jesus is united with God's people, the church. I wonder if this is why marriage promises are so important to Jesus?

Jesus tells the Pharisees about God's good design for marriage between people, but he also says that people don't always live out this design. Sometimes we break our marriage promises, or someone breaks the promises they made to us. Can I remember that Jesus cares about marriage promises because they picture his promises to us, and trust that no matter what he will never break those promises or leave me?

I wonder why the disciples told people to stop bringing children to Jesus? Can I picture them standing between the children and Jesus, blocking the way?

Mark tells us that this made Jesus angry. Not frustrated or impatient, but actually angry. Can that be true? Can I believe that Jesus loves me so much that he is angry at anything or anyone that tries to keep me away from him?

Jesus says that children are the ones who know how to receive God's kingdom. That kingdom belongs to them, not powerful, busy, important grownups. Can I ask Jesus to show me how to receive God's good rule today?

How does Jesus's voice sound to me as he says, "Let the little children come to me. Don't keep them away"? Can I believe right now that he is talking about me, too? Can I make my way towards him, knowing that I am welcome?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to take with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ

Mark 9:38-50

❔ WONDER

I wonder why John was so upset that someone else who was not a disciple was driving out demons in Jesus's name? I wonder why he couldn't be happy that people were being rescued from evil powers, and why he told him to stop?

Jesus tells John not to stop him, because the man is doing the work of God's kingdom. This unknown person is fighting against evil powers in Jesus's name. I wonder if Christians today sometimes worry more about who is one of us, instead of celebrating everyone who is doing the work of God's kingdom?

Jesus has strong, hard words for anyone who leads people who are weak or small into sin, or who hurts them. Can I hear in his voice how much he wants to love and protect people who are little, people who are weak, people who aren't important?

Gehenna was a valley outside of Jerusalem. It was the place where people threw trash, dead animals, and even dead bodies sometimes. Fires were always burning there so that the bodies and the trash would not rot in the sun. I wonder why Jesus says that the place where sin will lead us is like Gehenna?

Jesus speaks these hard words right after his disciples had an argument about who was the most important. He knows that he is on the road to Jerusalem, where he will confront people who are against him, and he will be killed. I wonder why it is so important for his disciples to decide now to follow him at all costs, and to put away anything that would make them stumble on the way?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to take with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

Today we are reading a little more from Mark chapter 9. Jesus's friends have confessed that he is the Messiah, God's chosen king. But they still don't understand what kind of king he will be, or how he will inherit his kingdom.

📖 READ:

Mark 9:30-37

❔ WONDER:

We already know how Jesus's story will end. But the disciples did not: they were living it, right alongside him. Can I join then for a minute, and try to imagine why this teaching — that Jesus would die, and rise again after three days — was so hard to understand? 

I wonder what the disciples were saying to one another as they argued on the road to Capernaum? I wonder if they thought, because Jesus was the king, that they would get important positions in his kingdom too?

Do I ever argue — out loud, with a sibling or loved one; or maybe just in my head — about why I am more important than other people around me, or why I should get what I want first? What do I want to to say to Jesus about that right now?

Can I hear Jesus saying to me, "Anyone who wants to be the first must be the very last. They must be the servant of everyone"? How do those words make me feel? Can I give Jesus those feelings right now?

And now, can I imagine being the child that Jesus calls into the room? Can I imagine being taken into his arms and welcomed? Just for a moment, I rest and let myself be held and loved by Jesus.

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now, or take with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ:

Mark 9:14-29

❔ WONDER:

In yesterday's story, Jesus and his three friends are on a mountaintop, and Jesus is shining brightly as he speaks with Moses and Elijah. We heard God's voice telling us Jesus is his Son. Now he has come down the mountain, but what is waiting at the bottom is a mess: a boy is being hurt by an evil spirit; the disciples can't heal him, and the crowd is getting angry. How does this change in the story make me feel? 

Earlier in Mark's story, people found it easy to believe in Jesus: they trusted that if they just touched his clothes, they would be healed. In this story, after the disciples fail to heal his son, the father isn't sure if Jesus can help. I wonder what has changed?

I wonder why the disciples couldn't help this boy? I wonder if following Jesus is getting harder as the story goes on?

What is happening to this boy is scary. Can I remember, as I hear this story, that Jesus has defeated the evil powers that want to hurt people, and that they cannot stand against him?

The boy's father is honest. He wants to believe Jesus can help his son, and he also knows he needs Jesus to help him hold on to that trust. Do I ever want to say those words to God, too: "I do believe: help my unbelief"? 

Jesus does help the man and his son. Can I believe that Jesus welcomes me when I want to trust him — even if I don't trust him perfectly, or all the way all the time?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now, or take with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ:

Mark 9:2-13

❔ WONDER:

Something very special is happening in this story. The disciples have been walking with Jesus, following him, and eating and talking and living with him every day. But now they get to see him in a new and different way. When I picture this scene, what do I see?

I wonder how it felt to be Peter, James, or John up on the mountain with Jesus? How might I have felt on the inside when Jesus is suddenly changed?  

Moses led God's people out of Israel and gave them God's laws. Elijah called God's people back to God over and over again. I wonder why these two men came to speak with Jesus on the mountainside? I wonder what they talked about?

How does the voice speaking out of the cloud sound to me? Is it loud or is it soft? Is it stern? Is it kind? Is it high, or deep? Can I imagine those words being spoken directly to me, right now: "This is my Son, and I love him. Listen to him!"

I wonder what it was like to walk back down the mountain with Jesus, now his ordinary self again? I wonder if anything was different for the disciples when they began traveling and following him again?

Elijah was a prophet who told the people of Israel to stop bowing down to idols, to turn around, and to worship God alone. I wonder how John the Baptist was like Elijah? 

 Are there any words, or pictures, or moments in this story I want to ask God about right now, or take with me into the rest of my day?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 8:27 - 9:1

❔ WONDER:

Now Jesus has taken his friends away from the seaside and away from the crowds, far up north on the side of a mountain near Caesarea Philippi. I wonder why he wanted to go away to a quieter place to have this conversation?

Can I imagine the scene, as they walk along? Jesus asks his friends what people are saying about him, and they share some of the things we've been hearing. Now he stops, and turns directly to them. I wonder how it felt, when Jesus looked right at his friends and asked them, "Who do *you* say that I am"?

The word "Messiah" means God's anointed, or chosen, king. I wonder what has helped Peter and the disciples to finally be able to see who Jesus really is? Can I believe, with them, that Jesus is the king God has sent into the world?

Israel already had a king: King Herod. And in Caesarea Philippi, there was a brand-new temple to the Roman Emperor, who ruled over Herod. I wonder if it was dangerous for Jesus to announce that he was the true king of Israel?

The Jews in Jesus's time believed that when Messiah came, he would finally rule over Israel and make everything right. The Messiah would fight God's enemies and win! I wonder what it was like for the disciples to hear Jesus say that instead, he would lose: he would be rejected and killed?

I wonder why Peter felt like he needed to scold Jesus? Did he think Jesus was wrong about God's kingdom and God's ways? I wonder what he said to Jesus?

When the Romans arrested criminals and sentenced them to death, they made the criminals carry the bar of the cross to the place where they would be nailed to it and die. I wonder what it was like for Jesus's friends to hear him say that following him means following along to the place where he will die? What is it like for me to hear that today?

Jesus tells his friends that the only way to save their lives is to lose them. I wonder what Jesus wants us to see about who God is, and how God works to save people? Can I ask Jesus to help me understand?

Jesus also says to his friends that some of them will live to see God's kingdom coming in all its power. It sounds like this kingdom might be different from what they're expecting, just like Jesus is a different kind of king. I wonder what they will see?

These are hard words today. Jesus's disciples have finally seen that he is God's king, but he is not doing or saying the kinds of things we expect a king to do. Is there anything I want to say to Jesus about the words I have heard today?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 8:14-26 

❔ WONDER:

Do you know how yeast works? When I bake bread, I put a little bit of yeast into my dough. That small amount works its way through and causes the whole loaf to bubble up and rise. I wonder why Jesus warns his friends about the yeast of the Pharisees, and of Herod? Is he talking about actual bread? Or is he talking about something else?

The Pharisees were a group of religious Jews who were waiting and hoping for God to send a Messiah to save Israel. I wonder what ideas, or hopes, or dreams the Pharisees had? I wonder why Jesus warns his friends about them?

Jesus has been telling his disciples that God's kingdom is coming close, and he has been showing them what that kingdom is like with his miracles. I wonder why it is so hard for them to see and understand?

I wonder if I am ever like the disciples? Are there ever times when I see God's work, or hear God's words, but don't really understand? What do I want to say to Jesus about that?

Jesus tells his friends that they are like blind people: they have eyes, but they can't really see who he is or what he is doing. And then he heals a blind man, and helps him see clearly again. I wonder if Mark wants us to see that we need Jesus to help *us* to clearly see who he is?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 8:1-13

❔ WONDER

I wonder why this large crowd has stayed with Jesus out in the countryside for three whole days, even though they didn't have anything to eat? What kept them there?

Can I imagine myself as one of the disciples in this story? We are out in the countryside, far away from a town or any place to buy food. The huge crowd is still with us, and they are all very hungry. — too hungry now to begin the long walk back to their homes. How would I feel if I were there? I wonder what I would say to Jesus?

Jesus looks at the crowd and he is moved deep inside with care for them. Can I imagine being in that crowd? Can I imagine Jesus feeling that deep care and love for me? 

Just a few chapters back, the disciples saw Jesus feed 5000 people with five loaves and two fish. But Mark tells us that "they didn't understand about the loaves." And now they can't imagine how they can feed this large crowd. The disciples still don't understand who Jesus is: I wonder why Mark keeps pointing that out?

I wonder why Jesus makes sure to have his disciples help pass out the food?

I wonder what it was like, to be a disciple and to be absolutely sure that I do not have enough bread to care for all these people? And then to see Jesus take what I have and make it grow so that everyone is fed?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 7:24-37

❔ WONDER:

Jesus has been drawing a lot of attention with his miracles, his teaching, and his arguments with the Pharisees. Now Jesus has come north, to an area where non-Jewish, or Gentile, people lived, and he is staying indoors and out of sight. I wonder why he did not want people to know where he was? 

In those days, in that land, Jews and Gentiles called each other "dogs," and other names that weren't very nice. I wonder why this Gentile woman came to a Jewish teacher for help? I wonder why she believed Jesus could — and would — help her?

At first, when this woman asks for help, Jesus says no. He says that his work right now is with Israel — with Abraham's children — and not with Gentiles. How do I imagine his face and his voice when she answers him back, saying even dogs get the crumbs from the children's table?

Even though the little girl and her mother are Gentiles, they still get to taste Jesus's healing power. I wonder if the time is coming when everyone who comes to Jesus will be able to be a child at his table?

Can I imagine, for a moment, what it was like to be the man who could not hear or speak? He did not have hearing aids or sign language to help him connect with other people. He couldn't hear what his friends said to him, or share his thoughts and feelings with them. I wonder what it would feel be like to be cut off from everyone around me? 

Can I imagine the feeling of Jesus's fingers in my ears? I wonder what it was like to have them suddenly opened, and to have all the sounds of the world around me come rushing in? I wonder what were the first words that rolled off this man's tongue? What would I have said?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ:

Mark 7:1-23

Our reading today is Mark chapter 7, verses 1 through 23.

❔ WONDER:

Jesus was Jewish, and the Jewish law in Moses's books gave very important rules about keeping clean and staying away from foods and other things that were unclean. These were the things that people had to do to come close to the Holy God. I wonder why Jesus does not seem very worried about these ways?

Jesus notices that the Pharisees sometimes use religious rules to break God's ways. For instance, some people said "all of my money is actually set aside for God," even when their parents needed their help — even though God says to honor our parents! Those people felt like they were serving God, but they ignored the people God called them to help. I wonder if there are ways that people today use religious rules to serve ourselves and avoid doing what God actually wants us to do?

The Pharisees believed that if you washed your hands in the right away, and ate the right foods, then you would be able to come close to the Holy God. But what if the things that come out of us — the things in our deepest hearts — are what need to be washed? I wonder how we could ever come close to God with unwashed hearts?

Do you remember when Jesus was baptized? He went under the water, and when he came up a loud voice from heaven said, "You are my child, and I love you." Can I trust, right now, that everyone who trusts Jesus is also joined in his baptism, washed from the inside out, and is God's beloved child?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 6:45-56

❔ WONDER:

I wonder how Jesus was feeling after he saw the disciples back onto the boat, and sent the crowd he had fed away? I wonder what he said to God when he went up on the mountainside to pray?

Can I imagine being one of the disciples, pulling hard at the oars and fighting with the wind and the water out in the boat? I wonder if their bodies and minds were tired and worn out in the dark as they tried to steer their boat?

Now can I imagine looking up, resting my aching arms, and suddenly seeing Jesus making his way towards me across the water? Can I imagine what that would have felt like?

How does Jesus's voice sound to me as he comes close and says, "Be brave. It is I. Don't be afraid"? 

As we've read through Mark, we've seen Jesus use his power to make nature safe and good for people: he calms dangerous wind and waves; he heals people from their sicknesses; and he makes food multiply so that everyone has enough to eat. I wonder why Mark included this story for us to read? I wonder what he wants us to see, and to believe, about Jesus?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

And for those of you with older children, I'll put the reading and some wondering questions up on Instagram so you can read and talk about it together! 

📖 READ:

Mark 6:30-44

❔ WONDER:

I wonder how the disciples felt, as they gathered back with Jesus and told him about all they had done: the sick people they had healed, the words they had preached, and the evil spirits who had been driven away. Were they excited? Proud? Maybe tired and ready for a rest?

How does Jesus's face look to me, as I imagine him listening to his friends tell about all they have done in his name?

I wonder why Jesus wanted to take them to a quiet place where they could rest, instead of sending them right back out again?

Can I imagine the crowds making their way around the shores of the lake, chasing in the direction of the boat carrying Jesus and his disciples?

I wonder how the disciples felt, when their boat landed and instead of a quiet resting place they found a large crowd?

Can I imagine Jesus's face, as he looked at the large crowd that wanted so badly to see him?

I wonder why Jesus began to teach them right then, even though it was almost dinnertime, and his disciples were tired and hungry?

Jesus took the bread and fish his disciples had, gave thanks, broke it, and then passed it around. There was more than enough for everyone. Can I think of another time bread is broken, and passed around? I wonder how Jesus has enough, and is enough, to feed every person who comes to him?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 6:1-13

❔ WONDER:

Nazareth was Jesus's home town. It was where he grew up, and the synagogue he goes to is the same one he has been worshiping in since he was a small boy. He's talking to the same people he has known all his life. I wonder what it was like to stand up in that comfortable, familiar place and announce that the kingdom of God was coming close, was here in Nazareth right now?

Can I imagine being one of the people who was listening to Jesus in the synagogue? Maybe I remember seeing him there with his parents, or playing with him outside when we were smaller. I wonder what it is like to hear stories about him traveling around the countryside, attracting crowds, and doing miracles?

I wonder why the people in Nazareth were not happy with Jesus? I wonder why the people who had known him his whole life did not honor him? How might I have reacted to him, if I lived there?

I wonder why Jesus could not do many miracles there in Nazareth, where people did not trust that he was from God?

Jesus gave his disciples very clear instructions when he sent them out. Looking at those instructions, it sounds like he was sending them in a hurry, to do a big and important job: don't pack a big suitcase! Find what you need to eat as you go! Go from town to town, and drive out evil powers that want to hurt people; make space for God's kingdom to come in! I wonder why this work was so important that they had to go out, right away, without packing or planning for their trip?

I wonder what it was like to be one of the twelve disciples, traveling around bringing the power of God's good news and healing to people who were sick and sad? How would I feel, if I could be a part of that work?

I wonder why some towns and places would not welcome Jesus's disciples? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 5:21-43 (NIRV)

❔WONDER:

As soon as Jesus's boat lands on the side of the Sea of Galilee, a crowd gathers. I wonder why so many people were ready and waiting for Jesus? I wonder what they hoped to see, or to hear, when he came and walked among them?

Can I imagine myself in the crowd, gathering around as the synagogue leader is pushing his way through? How do I imagine Jairus' face, as he throws himself down in front of Jesus? What does his voice sound like to me when he begs Jesus to come and heal his daughter?

I wonder how Jairus felt, as the large crowd continued to push around Jesus while they walked to his house? Was he angry or impatient with all of these people who were slowing Jesus down? Was his heart beating fast with fear that they were not going quickly enough while his daughter was dying at home?

Now can I imagine being the woman who had been sick for twelve long years? How do I feel as I edge my way through the crowd, trying to get close to Jesus? Can I imagine reaching out my hand, just trying to catch a small corner of his clothes as he goes past?

I wonder why the woman was so afraid when Jesus stopped and began asking who had touched his clothes? I wonder what Jesus's face looked like, as he listened to her story? How does his voice sound to me when he says, "Dear woman, go in peace. You are free"?

During the time that Jesus was stopped, Jairus's daughter died. Can I imagine myself in Jairus's place? How do I respond when Jesus turns and says to me, "Don't be afraid. Just believe"?

Can I picture Jesus gently taking the dead girl by the hand, and kindly telling her to wake up? I wonder what her mother and father did as she opened her eyes and stood up?

We have heard Jesus tell stories about seeds that are buried in the ground waking up and blossoming into life. Now we have seen Jesus wake a young girl up into life out of death. I wonder what Jesus wants us to see about God's kingdom in these stories?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

📖 READ:

Mark 5:1-20 (NIRV)

❔WONDER:

If I'm honest, this story can be kind of scary. I feel so sad for the man who is being controlled by strong powers that want to hurt him, and also a little frightened when I imagine him living in the tombs, breaking off chains, and crying out by himself. Can I remember, as we wonder about it, that Jesus came to help this man, and everyone like him? Can I ask God to remind me that on the cross, Jesus has defeated these strong powers that want to hurt people?

I wonder if I can imagine myself with Jesus's friends, on the boat as we pull it up to the shore. Last night, we were caught in a storm and Jesus spoke strong words to calm it. I wonder how I would feel this morning, watching this strange man come down from the tombs to meet Jesus?

Can I pay attention to the way this man, and the evil powers that are controlling him, speak to Jesus? These powers are strong enough to break chains and make this man hurt himself: I wonder why, when they meet Jesus, they beg, and plead, and seem afraid?  

Can I imagine being someone who lived nearby? Maybe I have been afraid of the strange man who lives in the tombs. I wonder what it was like to come down to the seashore and see him: calm, dressed, his hair combed, sitting quietly and talking with Jesus? I wonder what I would have said when I saw him?

The area where this story happens is a place where non-Jewish people, or Gentiles, lived. We can tell because they were raising pigs. I wonder why Jesus left his home area to come and announce God's good news here? And I wonder why the people asked him to leave?

The man who Jesus healed wants to come with him, but do you remember what Jesus said? "Go to your own people, and tell them what God has done for you." I wonder if this man was the very first person to go and tell Gentiles about Jesus? And I wonder what his friends and family said when he came home to them with his good news?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 4:35-41 (NIRV)

❔WONDER:

Let's take a moment and imagine together the Sea of Galilee. We call it a sea, but it is really a very, very big lake. It is down low in a valley, and wind that blows in over the mountains can make big storms come up on the lake almost without warning. I wonder what the weather was like when Jesus and his disciples set out in the boat? I wonder if the water was calm and the evening was quiet when they pushed away from the shore? 

In Jesus's time, many people were afraid of deep, dark waters. They couldn't see the bottom, and they didn't know what evil things might be swimming down deep. Can I imagine how the disciples must have felt when the wind picked up, the water got wild, and waves started crashing down on their boat?

Things seem to be happening very quickly in Mark's gospel: evil spirits suddenly recognize Jesus and must be cast out; religious leaders get angry and are already plotting to kill Jesus; a wild storm comes up out of nowhere on the sea. I wonder if Jesus's disciples are beginning to feel attacked by strong powers at this part of the story? I wonder if that is part of why they are so afraid?

I wonder why Jesus was able to sleep so peacefully during the storm? 

When Jesus does wake up, he speaks to the storm like a frustrated parent sometimes speaks to a child: "Quiet down! Be still!" How does his voice sound to me, as he orders the wind and waves to stop?

Can I imagine standing on that wildly rocking boat, being splashed by heavy waves, and watching Jesus get up and speak to the storm? What feelings rush through my body when all at once the wind stops, and the water around us becomes calm?

After Jesus calms the storm down, he asks his disciples, "Why were you so afraid? Don't you have any faith?" I wonder what he means? After all, they had enough faith to wake him up! I wonder what kind of trust still needs to grow in them?

Only God can control deep water, wind, and storms, because God is the one who created them. What it is like for me to see the power of the Creator of the universe coming out of the mouth of this carpenter from Galilee? Is there anything I want to say to Jesus after hearing this story?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 READ:

Mark 4:21-34 (NIRV)

❔WONDER:

What happens to the dark corners and fuzzy shapes in your room at night when you turn on a lamp? Do things become more clear and easy to see? I wonder how Jesus's words and his actions are like a lamp lighting up a dark place?  

I wonder why Jesus told his friends to pay attention and think carefully about his words? I wonder if his words are also like seeds that can put down deep roots in our hearts and grow?

Have I ever seen what a seed is doing when it is still hidden in the ground? Can I imagine a farmer's seeds slowly cracking open, pushing out little shoots, and then breaking through in a burst of green through the ground?

I wonder how God's work in the world is like that seed, hidden and quiet in the ground, growing and taking shape before we can see what it will look like in the sunshine?

When we bury seeds in the ground, sometimes it can seem like they are dry and dead. It can be hard to imagine a living plant, full of fruit; or a tall bush, full of branches and shade, coming from this small, dried up little shell. I wonder if Jesus wants us to imagine that God's good rule over our world will come in ways we sometimes can't see, or imagine, or expect?

When Jesus told these stories, he was still up in Galilee. He was far away from Jerusalem, and he was still an unimportant son of a carpenter. I wonder why simple Jesus, son of Mary and Joseph, told these stories about hidden lamps, and buried and tiny seeds?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 PRAY:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deeds. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 4:13-20 (NIRV)

❔Wonder:

I wonder how Jesus' disciples felt after he told this story? I wonder if they guessed what it was about, or if they were confused?

The farmer in the story was a little bit wild when he scattered his seed: he flung it in all kinds of places where it would be hard for it to grow. I wonder why Jesus said that the seed is like the word, or message, about God? 

I wonder who the farmer is like? I wonder who spreads and plants good words about God in all kinds of places?

I wonder if there are times when my heart is like the hard, smooth path that the seeds can't sink into? What could soften it, or break it up so God's message can take root?

I wonder if there are times when my heart is like rocky, shallow soil? A place where roots can't grow deep? I wonder if I can ask God to clear the hard and sharp places so that his message can grow in me?

What kinds of things crowd out God's message in me, like thorns and brambles crowding out a young plant? How can I find space, and sunlight, and room for God's words to grow?

A field of wheat or grain grows up and feeds many people. I wonder how the seeds of God's message are like wheat?

How does this story make me feel? Is there anything I want to say to Jesus about his story, or to ask him to show me?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 4:1-12 (NIRV)

❔Wonder:

Can I picture myself hearing this story along with the rest of the crowd at the Sea of Galilee? Where am I? Am I sitting on some sand, warm beneath me? Or maybe I am trying to get comfortable on a rocky patch as I strain to hear Jesus? Does the breeze help me hear his voice, as he is speaking from the boat? Can I feel it on my face? Can I see Jesus, the boat softly rocking on the waves?

In Jesus' time, farmers scattered their seeds in their fields by hand. They took handfuls of seed, and sprinkled them in the the soil they had plowed. I wonder why this farmer isn't being careful about where he scatters his seed?

Can I imagine the seeds landing on the smooth path? How could they ever get covered up and grow?

Can I see the seeds that land in the rocky places? How could their roots ever grow deep and strong in such broken and hard soil?

Have I ever seen a plant that is trying to grow up surrounded by thorny bushes or vines? How could it ever get enough sunlight and space to grow?

Now, can I picture a field full of wheat, grown up from tiny seeds but now big enough to feed hundreds of people?

I wonder why Jesus said, "whoever has ears should listen"? I have ears, but do I always really listen with them?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 3:22-35 (NIRV)

❔Wonder:

Big crowds keep following Jesus wherever he goes. They want to come close to him. But some people don't seem to understand why. Yesterday, we heard about Jesus's family saying that Jesus was out of his mind. And today, the teachers of the law are saying that he must be filled with an evil spirit. I wonder why people saw such different things when they looked at Jesus?

I wonder why the teachers of the law thought Jesus was filled with an evil spirit instead of God's Holy Spirit? I wonder why they thought the work he was doing was the work an evil spirit would do?

I wonder why Jesus tells them they are speaking wrong words against God's Holy Spirit?

I wonder why Jesus' mother and brothers came to get him? How would I feel if my brother or my son was doing and saying the things that Jesus was? What would I do, if Jesus was my brother, or my son?

Can I imagine sitting in the crowd that is circled with Jesus? What does Jesus's face look like to me, as he looks around at all of us? How do I feel when he calls me his mother, or sister, or brother?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 3:7-21 (NIRV)

❔Wonder:

I wonder how so many people, from so many different places, had heard about Jesus? I wonder what they hoped to see, or to hear, as they traveled to the Sea of Galilee to find him?

I wonder, if I had heard the stories about the things Jesus was doing, if I would have left my home to go and see or hear him for myself? How would I feel about joining these crowds full of sick people, or people with evil spirits? Would I have been eager to see Jesus? Or would I have been curious, but more comfortable staying at home?

Can I imagine being in the crowd on the shores of the Sea of Galilee as it pushed towards Jesus? How do I feel, as I am being jostled along? What do I see around me? What sounds do I hear? I wonder why each person who is bumping up against me wants to come close to Jesus?

I wonder how each of the twelve followers felt when Jesus chose them to stay with him? Excited? Nervous about the job he would give them? Worried about their families at home? How would I feel, if I were joining Jesus up on that mountainside and he said, "Follow me?"

Crowds keep following Jesus wherever he goes. I wonder what his family at home thought about this? I wonder why they said, "He is out of his mind"?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 2:18 - 3:6 (NIRV)

❔Wonder:

I wonder why the time was not right for Jesus's disciples to fast from food while they were all together, following him? I wonder how Jesus with his disciples was like a groom with his friends at a wedding?

In those days, God's people followed the laws Moses gave about resting on the Sabbath. People prepared their food ahead of time, so they would not have to do any kind of work on the Sabbath day. I wonder what it was like to see the disciples walking through a field, plucking grain like farmers at work, while everyone else was resting as a way to obey God?

I wonder why Jesus told the story of David and his men eating the holy bread that was supposed to belong to God? I wonder how the Pharisees felt, hearing Jesus compare himself to King David from long ago?

Can I imagine being in the synagogue, where the man with the twisted and hurting hand had come on the Sabbath? Can I picture everyone looking at Jesus, wondering what will happen next? How does Jesus's face look to me, as he looks at the man and then turns towards the Pharisees? How does his voice sound?

Do you know where the Sabbath laws came from? God told Moses that the people should rest on the seventh day, just like God rested after six days of creating the world. People could stop working and remember that all that we have comes from God, our creator, and not from our own efforts. The Sabbath day was so important because it reminded people to rest and depend on God. I wonder why Jesus made a point of breaking these Sabbath rules?

I wonder what made the Pharisees so angry that they wanted to kill Jesus?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!

📖 Read:

Mark 2:1-17 (NIRV) 

❔Wonder:

I wonder what it was like to be in that crowded house in Capernaum? So many people were gathered that you couldn't even squeeze through the door! Can I picture myself in that crowd? What do I smell? What do I hear? Is someone pushed up against me? Can I see Jesus?

I picture Jesus looking at the man lying on the mat, and at his friends who have lowered the man before him. I wonder what expression Jesus had on his face? I wonder how his voice sounded when he said, "Son, your sins are forgiven"?

Can I imagine seeing the man who was lying in front of of Jesus stand up, take his mat, and walk away? How does watching this story play out make me feel?

Levi was a tax collector. In those days, a tax collector was like a traitor: they helped the Roman soldiers who had taken over the land of Israel. People feared and disliked them, and they weren't allowed to come into the temple or come close to God. I wonder how Levi, the tax collector, felt when Jesus looked right at him and said, "Follow me"?

I wonder how Jesus's friends felt, when Levi the tax collector came to join them as they followed Jesus?

Now I picture Jesus at Levi's house, having dinner with all sorts of people you aren't supposed to come close to. How do I respond when I see Jesus sharing his meal with a crowd of people who broke God's ways?

I wonder why Jesus says that he came not for good people, but for sinners? 

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to ask God about right now?

Are there any words, or pictures, or moments from this story that I want to take with me and hold close?

🙏🏾 Pray:

Jesus of Nazareth, son of God: thank you that we have a book filled with your words and deed. Give us the wisdom and understanding that comes from your Holy Spirit, so that we can know you better and follow you all the days of our lives. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

💌 Keep in touch!

You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @wewonderpod for updates throughout the season, or you can shoot me an email at sarah@wewonderpod.com Thanks so much for listening, and I'll see you tomorrow!