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## Bible StoryLong ago, Jesus was loved by many people because He taught about God's love and did wonderful things. But some leaders didn’t like what He said and wanted to stop Him.One day, Jesus was with His friends having a special meal called the Last Supper. He told them He would have to leave soon, but they shouldn’t worry because He would always be with them in their hearts.Later that night, Jesus went to a garden to pray. He was feeling very sad because He knew what was going to happen. Some soldiers came to the garden and arrested Him. Jesus' friends were scared and ran away.The leaders who didn’t like Jesus brought Him before the ruler, Pontius Pilate. Even though Jesus hadn’t done anything wrong, they wanted Him to be punished. Pilate tried to let Jesus go, but the people shouted for Jesus to be crucified.Jesus was taken to a place called Golgotha. There, He was put on a cross with nails through His hands and feet. But even on the cross, Jesus showed love. He prayed for the people who hurt Him and asked God to forgive them.After some time, Jesus said, "It is finished," and He died. The sky turned dark and the earth shook. Jesus’ friends were very sad, but they remembered His love and promises.But the story doesn’t end there—three days later, something amazing happens...## Activity### Cross Craft**Materials Needed:** - Craft sticks (or cardboard strips) - Glue - Paint or markers - String - Decorative items (like stickers or glitter)**Instructions:** 1. **Form the Cross:** Take two craft sticks and place one across the other to form a cross shape. Glue them together and let them dry. 2. **Decorate the Cross:** Use paint, markers, or stickers to decorate your cross. You can write words like "Love" or "Hope" if you like. 3. **Add String:** Once dry, glue a piece of string to the back of the cross so you can hang it in your room. 4. **Reflect on Love:** While decorating, think about how much love Jesus has for everyone.Hang your cross to remember the story of Jesus' love and sacrifice.## Reflection Questions1. How does Jesus' love make you feel? 2. What can we do to show love to others like Jesus did? 3. Why do you think Jesus forgave the people who hurt Him?

Bible Stories for Kids - the Crucifiction

Cross with light ray presentation background

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Psalms 23:6 (NLT) Embrace God's Unfailing Love and Mercy“Congratulations on diving into Psalms 23:6! By exploring this verse, you're opening your heart to God's unwavering goodness and mercy, discovering how they can profoundly influence your life's journey. Let’s unpack the richness of this Scripture and see how it can deepen your faith and transform your everyday experience.”1. Read "Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever." Psalms 23:6 (NLT)Psalms, a collection of hymns and prayers, often express deep trust and reliance on God. Psalm 23, attributed to David, paints a beautiful picture of God as a shepherd, guiding and protecting His flock. This chapter reveals themes of provision, comfort, and eternal security, reminding believers of God's intimate care and everlasting presence.2. Examine Psalms 23:6 reassures believers that God's goodness and love are ever-present, actively pursuing them throughout their lives. This verse affirms God's faithful nature, promising eternal fellowship with Him. It invites us to rest in the truth that we are never alone, always guided by His benevolent hand.Connection to Jesus: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, embodies God's goodness, leading us lovingly and sacrificially. His life and teachings exemplify the pursuit of God’s love, drawing us into a relationship that promises eternal peace and security.Main Themes:--- Goodness and Mercy: Highlighting God's active, loving nature. --- Eternal Fellowship: Assurance of an everlasting relationship with God. --- Pursuit: God's relentless desire to be present in our lives.Key Word Study: --- "Pursue" (Hebrew: radaph): Means to chase or follow closely. This word underscores God’s eagerness to be with us, not passively waiting but actively seeking our relationship.3. ApplyReflective Questions: ---How can I recognize God’s goodness and mercy in my daily life? In what ways is God pursuing me today, and how can I respond? What steps can I take to cultivate a deeper awareness of living in God’s presence?Real-Life Application: --- Acknowledge God's Presence: Take a moment each day to reflect on His goodness—perhaps through journaling or gratitude practices—acknowledging His work in your life. --- Respond to His Pursuit: Engage with God through prayer or Scripture reading, drawing nearer to His guiding presence. --- Practice Gratitude: Commit to expressing thanks for God’s love and guidance, especially during challenging times.Real-Life Example: Consider a mother overwhelmed by life’s demands. By pausing to reflect on God’s blessings, she finds peace and strength, realizing His constant presence and love, providing hope and resilience.4. PrayDear Shepherd, I praise You for Your goodness and unfailing love that pursues me always. Forgive me for the times I overlook Your presence or doubt Your care. Help me to open my heart to Your guidance, trusting in Your faithful promises. Strengthen my faith, so I may dwell in Your house forever, walking in Your light and love. Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine God’s love as a gentle river flowing toward you, its waters bringing life and grace to every corner of your soul. Let His presence envelop you today, offering peace and assurance of His eternal companionship.Call to Action: Today, take a moment to sit quietly and feel God’s love pursuing you. Embrace His presence and let it fill your heart with gratitude and joy, remembering you are cherished and never alone.

Grab Hold of God's Unfailing Love & Mercy

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Luke 5:32 (ESV) Embrace the Call to Repentance and Transformation“Today’s journey brings us to Luke 5:32—a verse that beautifully encapsulates Jesus’ mission and the heart of the Gospel. By exploring this passage, you’re taking a step closer to understanding the grace and love that Jesus offers to all who turn to Him. Let’s see how this scripture can transform your life by embracing God’s invitation to change.”1. Read"I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." Luke 5:32 (ESV)The Gospel of Luke presents Jesus as the compassionate Savior reaching out to all people, especially the marginalized and overlooked. Chapter 5 focuses on Jesus calling His first disciples and performing miracles. In this verse, Jesus addresses the Pharisees and scribes who questioned His association with tax collectors and sinners. It highlights His mission to bring spiritual healing to those aware of their need for Him, manifesting God’s deep love and desire for all to experience redemption.2. Examine Luke 5:32 emphasizes that Jesus came not for those who consider themselves righteous but for those who recognize their need for a Savior. It underscores the importance of repentance—a sincere turning away from sin and turning toward God. This verse reminds us that everyone is welcome to receive Christ’s transformative love and grace.Connection to Jesus: Jesus exemplified loving outreach by associating with those deemed unworthy by society. His life and ministry provide a perfect model of humility and willingness to forgive and restore. Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for sinners to reconcile with God, inviting all to experience true life change.Main Themes: - Repentance: A genuine change of heart and mind leads to a transformed life. - Grace: Jesus' invitation is rooted in unmerited favor for all who seek Him. - Redemption: God’s desire is to restore and bring wholeness to our lives.Key Word Study: "Repentance" (Greek: metanoia): Refers to a change of mind and heart, involving genuine remorse for wrongdoing and a commitment to live differently. This highlights the transformative power of God’s grace in shaping our lives anew.3. ApplyReflective Questions: - Where in my life do I recognize a need for change and repentance? - How can I embrace God’s grace and forgiveness today, turning away from old patterns? - In what ways can I extend grace to others, as Jesus does?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: - Acknowledge Areas for Growth: Take time today to reflect on aspects of your life where you need change. Pray for God’s strength to turn toward Him. - Seek Forgiveness: Remember that Jesus’ arms are open wide, ready to forgive. Confess your sins and accept the freedom He offers. - Show Mercy: Consider a relationship or situation where you can extend grace and understanding today, modeling Christ’s love.Real-Life Example: Imagine someone struggling with anger who recognizes their need for change. By turning to Jesus in prayer, they begin to practice patience and display kindness in challenging situations. Their newfound peace and compassion touch the lives of those around them, demonstrating God’s transformative power through their actions.4. PrayHeavenly Father, Thank You for sending Jesus not only for the righteous but for sinners like me. I confess my need for Your grace and acknowledge the areas in my life that need transformation. Forgive me for my shortcomings, and fill my heart with a desire to turn away from sin and live for You. Empower me to embrace Your love and share it with others. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine your heart as a house where each room needs light. As you open each door to God, His truth and love flood in, bringing warmth and change. Today, allow His light to illuminate every corner, and live in the freedom and joy of His presence.Call to Action: Today, take a step by inviting God into an area of life you’ve kept closed off. Trust in His promise of transformation and share His love with someone who needs encouragement. Embrace the journey of becoming more like Christ daily.

The Call to Repentance & Transformation

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Philippians 2:5 (ESV)"By exploring Philippians 2:5, you're embarking on a journey toward embracing the heart and mind of Jesus. Let's discover how embodying His attitude can transform not only your inner world but also your interactions and impact on those around you."1. Read "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5 (ESV)Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Philippi, encouraging them to live in unity and humility. Chapter 2 focuses on imitating Christ's humility. Paul reminds the Philippians of Christ’s selfless love and sacrifice, urging them to adopt His mindset in their relationships and daily lives.2. Examine Philippians 2:5 calls believers to adopt the same attitude and way of thinking as Christ, marked by humility and love. It emphasizes the transformative power of aligning our mindset with Jesus', leading to a life that mirrors His selflessness and grace.Connection to Jesus: Jesus exemplified perfect humility and obedience to God. He willingly set aside His divine privileges, serving others and ultimately sacrificing Himself on the cross. By following His example, we learn to live for others, prioritizing unity and love.Main Themes: - Humility: Embrace a posture of servanthood and graciousness. - Unity: Foster harmony by valuing others above ourselves. - Christlikeness: Strive to reflect Jesus' character in all aspects of life.Key Word Study: "Mind" (Greek: phroneō): This word refers to the attitude or disposition of thought, emphasizing alignment with Christ’s values rather than mere intellectual understanding.3. ApplyReflective Questions: - Where am I struggling to adopt Christ's mindset in my life? - How can I demonstrate humility and unity in my relationships today? - What practical steps can I take to model Jesus' selfless love?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: - Practice Servitude: Choose one act today that puts someone else's needs above your own, reflecting Christ’s humility. - Encourage Unity: Reach out to a friend or colleague with a word of encouragement or an offer of help, promoting unity and support. - Reflect on Jesus: Spend time in prayer and meditation, asking God to shape your heart to be more like Jesus, focusing on humility and love.Real-Life Example: Imagine a team leader who values collaboration over competition and actively supports their team's growth. By prioritizing others, they inspire loyalty and create a thriving environment filled with mutual respect and shared success.4. PrayHeavenly Father, Thank You for giving us the perfect example of humility in Jesus. Forgive me when pride or selfishness clouds my vision. Help me to adopt Christ’s mindset, nurturing a heart of service and unity. Empower me through Your Spirit to love others as Jesus did, transforming my relationships and community. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.Closing Reflection: Visualize your heart becoming more like Christ's—a vessel of humility and love. As you immerse your mind in His truth, let His light shine through your actions, drawing others to His grace.Call to Action: Today, consciously choose an action characteristic of Jesus' humility, whether it's a quiet act of kindness or a word of encouragement. Let Christ's love guide you as you bring His presence into the world.

Cultivate the Mindset of Christ

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 1 John 5:19 (ESV)<h3>Understanding Our Place in God's Plan</h3>“Today, you’ve chosen to delve into 1 John 5:19—an insightful verse that grounds us in the reality of God’s sovereignty and the world’s current state. By exploring this scripture, you’re allowing God’s truth to illuminate your heart and guide your daily walk. Let’s dive into how this verse can deepen your faith and inspire wise living.”1. Read "We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one." 1 John 5:19 (ESV)The First Epistle of John is a letter emphasizing the assurance of eternal life, faith's triumph, and love's central role in the believer's life. Written by the Apostle John to early Christians, this letter provides encouragement and addresses challenges such as false teachings. Chapter 5 confirms the believer’s identity and reminds us of the spiritual battle raging in the world.2. Examine This verse reassures believers of their belonging to God while acknowledging the influence of evil in the world. It serves as a call to vigilance and faithfulness, reinforcing that, despite worldly opposition, our security is found in Christ.Connection to Jesus: Jesus highlighted the reality of spiritual warfare and the power of His victory over it. By trusting in His resurrection and His promise to overcome the world, believers can live confidently knowing they are under God’s care.Main Themes:--- Identity in God: Our true identity as children of God gives us security. --- Spiritual Awareness: Recognizing the world’s fallen nature keeps us alert and faithful. --- Victory in Christ: Despite the presence of evil, Jesus has overcome the world.Key Word Study:--- "Power" (Greek: exousia): Refers to authority or control. This suggests a temporary permission for evil influence, contrasting with God’s ultimate sovereignty. --- "World" (Greek: kosmos): Indicates the current worldly system opposed to God, emphasizing its distinction from God’s kingdom. 3. ApplyReflective Questions:--- How does knowing you belong to God bring peace amidst worldly chaos? --- What practical steps can you take to guard against the influence of the world? --- How can you actively rely on Christ’s victory in your daily struggles? Real-Life Application:--- Affirm Your Identity: Begin each day reminding yourself of your identity in Christ. This can be through a daily affirmation or reflecting on scripture that reinforces God’s promises. --- Stay Spiritually Alert: Identify any influences or environments that may pull you away from God. Replace them with spiritual practices like prayer or fellowship that strengthen your faith. --- Trust in Victory: In moments of doubt or difficulty, consciously choose to trust in Jesus’ victory over evil. This can be through a prayer of reliance or sharing your struggles with a fellow believer for encouragement.Example: Picture a parent concerned about their children’s influences at school. By praying for wisdom and modeling Christ-like behavior, they teach their children to discern between worldly values and Godly truths, instilling peace and confidence in their young hearts.4. PrayDear Lord, I praise You for claiming me as Your own and giving me strength in a challenging world. Forgive me for moments when I’ve let worldly fears overshadow my trust in You. Grant me wisdom and discernment as I navigate life’s complexities. Help me to stand firm in Your truth and shine Your light in dark places. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, may I live fearlessly in Your love and victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: “Imagine yourself as a lighthouse, steadfast and shining brightly in a world of shadows. As God’s light fills you, may it illuminate your path and dispel darkness around you. Carry the assurance of God’s victory in your heart today, knowing He is with you always.”Call to Action: Today, stand firm in your God-given identity by implementing one practice that reflects your faith—a prayer of thanksgiving, a step of faith, or an act of kindness. Let God’s victory shine through you as a beacon of hope and love.

Understanding Our Place in God's Plan

How to Embrace a Fresh Start with GodHave you ever stared at a blank canvas or the first page of a new journal? The possibilities stretch out before you, yet there’s that small voice whispering, What if I mess up? Life – and faith – can feel this way.&nbsp;Whether you’re carrying the weight of mistakes, walking through a dry season, or longing to reconnect with God, you might feel hesitant, even unworthy. Here’s the good news: God specializes in new beginnings.&nbsp;His grace runs deeper than anything you’ve done, said, or wished you’d handled differently. Starting fresh with God isn’t just possible—it’s transformative.Understanding What a Fresh Start with God MeansA fresh start with God is more than wiping the slate clean. It’s stepping into His mercy, letting Him take the broken pieces of your past, and trusting Him to create something beautiful. Scripture reminds us that God’s mercy is endless.&nbsp;Lamentations 3:22-23 says, “It is because of Yahweh’s loving kindnesses that we are not consumed, because his compassion doesn’t fail. They are new every morning.”Think about that: every morning brings brand-new mercies. When you surrender your heart to God, you aren’t just tweaking a few bad habits. You’re becoming something entirely new.&nbsp;In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we’re told, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new.” This isn’t a temporary fix. It’s a total transformation.Recognizing the Need for RenewalHow do you know it’s time for a fresh start? Maybe life feels like you’re running on fumes—checking all the “Christian” boxes but feeling disconnected from God. Or perhaps you’re carrying shame over past decisions, unsure if God could still want you. You’re not alone. We’ve all been there in some way.Sometimes, God lets us experience this need for renewal so we’ll realize our dependence on Him. It’s like a dry garden—without fresh water, nothing grows.&nbsp;If you’re feeling stuck, discouraged, or disconnected, consider asking yourself: What’s standing between me and God’s best for my life? Admitting you need Him sets the stage for true renewal.God's Promises of a New BeginningGod doesn’t just offer a new start—He promises it. Isaiah 43:18-19 speaks directly to this: “Don’t remember the former things, and don’t consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing. It springs out now. Don’t you know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”Picture that—God creating rivers in a desert, carving paths in barren places. Even when your life feels like a spiritual wasteland, God can breathe new life into it. His grace doesn’t depend on how good you’ve been or how many times you’ve fallen short. It depends only on His goodness.Steps to Embrace a Fresh Start with GodFeeling ready to take that step? Here are actionable ways to embrace your fresh start with God.Seek Forgiveness and Surrender to GodThe starting point is surrender. You can’t carry the weight of your past and move forward at the same time. Be honest in your prayers. Confess your sins, share your struggles, and ask God to take control. As 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”Here’s the thing: surrender isn’t a one-and-done moment. It’s ongoing. Each morning, you have to intentionally lay down your agenda, fears, and plans to follow His. Trust in His direction, as Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages: “Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”Commit to Daily Connection with GodYou wouldn’t expect a plant to thrive without regular water and sunlight, would you? Your relationship with God works the same way. Create daily habits that help you stay rooted in Him. Read His Word, spend time in prayer, and listen to His voice.Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.” Keep God’s Word close—it will guide you during moments of uncertainty and rekindle your faith on the hardest days.Surround Yourself with a Christian CommunityNo one walks this journey alone. God gives us the gift of community for accountability, encouragement, and growth. Surrounding yourself with believers helps you stay grounded, especially in those moments when you feel like giving up.Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, “Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another.” Find a Bible study group, join a small group at church, or invite a few friends into your spiritual journey.How to Stay Committed to Your Fresh Start Starting fresh with God feels amazing, but staying committed takes intentionality. Here are ways to keep your relationship with God thriving.Consistency is the key to growth, even when you don’t feel like sticking with it. Build habits of reading Scripture, praying, worshiping, and serving. It may feel strange or overwhelming at first, but every effort matters.1 Timothy 4:7-8 says, “Exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come.” Think of spiritual discipline as training for your soul—it’s worth the effort.You aren’t perfect, and that’s okay. Give yourself the same grace God gives you. Some days will feel like you’re soaring spiritually, and others may feel like you’re barely crawling. But God isn’t in a rush with you. Philippians 1:6 provides this reminder: “Being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”When you stumble, don’t give up. Learn from it. Keep moving forward, trusting that God’s work in you is ongoing.Testimonies of God’s Renewal in the BibleGod’s transformative power is revealed throughout the Bible. These stories aren’t just ancient tales—they’re real examples of God’s ability to renew and restore anyone.David’s Story: From Brokenness to Restoration David made some huge mistakes, yet he’s remembered as a man after God’s own heart. In Psalm 51, you see his raw repentance: "Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me.” God didn’t leave David in his guilt—He restored him, reminding us that no failure is final with God.The Prodigal Son: A Parable of Returning to God The parable in Luke 15:11-32 paints a beautiful picture of God’s love. The prodigal son squandered his inheritance and hit rock bottom. Yet, when he returned, his father ran to greet him with open arms. That’s God’s heart for you—eager to embrace you when you turn to Him.Paul’s Transformation: From Persecutor to Proclaimer If Paul’s story doesn’t prove God’s ability to transform, nothing will. A man who once persecuted Christians became one of the most passionate voices for Christ. Acts 9 recounts his encounter with Jesus, and it’s a reminder that no one is beyond God’s redemptive power.What’s Next?Starting over with God isn’t about fixing yourself or earning His love. It’s about trusting that He’s already done the work.&nbsp;All you have to do is say yes. Whether this is your first time turning to Him or your hundredth, the same truths apply: God’s love is unshakable, His grace is limitless, and His plans for you are good.So, what’s holding you back? Take that first step today—confess, surrender, and trust Him to guide you. He’s ready to meet you with open arms, right where you are. Your fresh start begins now.