- Week 1March 9: Forgiveness
Scripture: Luke 23:34
In the first of these final words, Jesus offers forgiveness to those who mocked, betrayed, and crucified Him. His plea to the Father reveals the heart of God, one that desires mercy over judgment. Through this word, we are invited to embrace the power of forgiveness in our own lives and extend grace even to those who have wronged us. Jesus calls us to reflect His heart of forgiveness, challenging us to live out our faith with mercy and reconciliation.
3/9 Groups GuideWeek 2March 16: Salvation - "Today, you will be with me in Paradise."Scripture: Luke 23:39-43
In this moment of immense suffering, Jesus promises salvation to a repentant criminal hanging beside Him. This word shows us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace—no matter our past or our mistakes. It reminds us that salvation is a gift, freely offered to all who turn to Jesus in faith. Jesus' words invite us to embrace the hope of eternal life and share that hope with others.
Week 3March 23: Community - "Woman, behold your son... Behold your mother."Scripture: John 19:25-27
Jesus’ words to Mary and John on the cross reveal the importance of community in the body of Christ. Even in His final moments, Jesus was concerned for the well-being of those He loved. He calls us to live in authentic community with one another, bearing each other's burdens and loving one another as He has loved us. Through this word, we are reminded of our responsibility to build and care for the community of believers.
Week 4March 30: Distress - "I thirst."Scripture: John 19:28-29
"I thirst." These simple words speak volumes about the humanity of Jesus. In His suffering, He experienced the deep physical and emotional anguish of our human condition. Yet, even in His distress, He fulfills Scripture and points to the greater thirst we have for God’s presence. Jesus' cry invites us to examine our own thirst for God and to seek Him as the only one who can truly satisfy our deepest longings.
Week 5April 13 – Palm Sunday: Death - "Into Your Hands I commend my spirit."Scripture: Luke 23:46
As Jesus breathes His last, He surrenders Himself fully into the hands of His Father. This word is an act of ultimate trust and submission. It calls us to surrender our lives into God's hands, trusting that He holds us in life and in death. It is a challenge to live with a posture of trust and obedience, knowing that our lives are not our own but belong to the One who gave us life.
Week 6April 27: Triumph - "It is finished."Scripture: John 19:30
In His final words, Jesus declares that His work of salvation is complete. "It is finished" is not a cry of defeat but a triumphant declaration of victory over sin and death. Through His sacrifice, Jesus has completed the work of redemption. This word invites us to live in the freedom that His victory brings and to share in the triumph of the resurrection.