"The Third Day" Series 2025

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“The Third Day” Series Summary (Lent 2025)
After Jesus’ crucifixion, the first disciples were disoriented and unable to move forward on their own.  What happened on the third day changed everything.  Their experience of the resurrection put them back on course.  When those closest to Jesus encountered the risen Lord, it reshaped their identity, renewed their hope, and reframed how they saw the world.  Join us this Lent as we discover how the third day can also bring renewal, hope, and transformation to our lives.

 


Mar. 5 | Ash Wednesday
HOPE FROM ASHES: Ashes typically symbolize the end of everything.  But for Christians, they are also a reminder of resurrection.  In Revelation 21:1-7, the prophet has a vision of undying hope and new life.  When has hope risen from ashes?

Mar. 9 | Lent 1
MARY MAGDALENE: When we experience loss, our grief can feel overwhelming.  In John 20:11-18, Mary mourns for Jesus and mistakes him for the gardener, but the risen Christ calls her by name and renews her faith.  When have you found joy amid grief?

Mar. 16 | Lent 2

 PETER: When we fail, we may be tempted to give up, thinking we are no good or not good enough.  In John 21:1-19, Jesus renews his call to Peter, a guilt-ridden disciple who repeatedly failed Jesus.  When have you felt like a failure?

Mar. 23 | Lent 3
THOMAS: Criminals use deception and fraud to trick us, but doubt can be a healthy response that protects us.  In  John 20:24-29, Thomas wants to verify that Jesus is risen from the dead, and the other disciples give him space to find faith.  How has doubt strengthened your faith?

Mar. 30 | Lent 4
EMMAUS: Sometimes, we assume the worst, and our cynicism or disappointment keep us from having hope.  In Luke 24:13-16, 28-35, Jesus accompanies his despairing disciples on the road to Emmaus, but they do not recognize him until they break bread with him.  What helps you to know God’s presence?

Apr. 6 | Lent 5
PAUL: Sometimes, we are so committed to the wrong thing that we do not recognize it.  In Acts 9:1-12, Paul becomes blind but gains new insight that changes his life.  How has faith changed your life?

Apr. 13 | Palm Sunday
JESUS: When bad things happen, we often think God is off the job.  But God sent Jesus to deal with suffering and sin.  In Philippians 2:5-11, Jesus’ example of sacrificial love becomes the model for our lives.  When have you unselfishly given of yourself?

Apr. 17 | Maundy Thursday
A FORETASTE OF HEAVEN: In Matthew 26:17-20, 26-30, Jesus uses the bread and cup to represent new life and hope.  The meal is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet.  How can communion prepare us for resurrection?

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