Re-Post: Pondering the crazy week Jesus was about to have

I am interrupting my posts about our mission trip to re-post this resource about passion week from last year. Last Friday started the walk through what we call the Passion Week. Last Friday I started pondering and reflecting on Jesus' journey to the cross. I have this really neat chart in my NIV Study Bible that is found in the book of Mark. It leads you through each day and even refers you to the scriptures where those events are located. I was able to find something similar on the Bible Wise website. Click on this link to take you to it. I think it will help you as you prepare for to celebrate and remember this Easter season.

As you read and study I pray that God will make this a most memorable and blessed Easter season for you.

"Arise My Love" By: Newsong

I LOVE this song! And the video background images that they added from the movie the Passion of the Christ are powerful. whew! (by the way, there are intentional periodic black screens)
I think the true meaning of Easter gets lost in the busyness, easter bunnies and egg hunts.This video is a great reminder of the true meaning of Easter. It is also very humbling to watch the depictions of what Christ must have gone through to carry the weight of our sin. Remember it was love that drove Him to the cross....

So how are you doing with what you gave up for Lent?

This year I gave up watching not all of TV (I know myself too well) but I gave up hours of TV. I realize that many times I get hooked into a TV show or movie instead of spending time reading God's Word and studying it. Or even reading books relevant to understanding it. It is amazing how much of a "company keeper" TV is for me. I don't really watch it or even listen to it all the time. Many times its on and muted. I know, so you ask "why even have it on?" Well it gives the allusion of having another person in the room for me at times. Sad I know. In response to this many friends have told me I need a pet. ?? I also think its a habit..... so I am trying to break myself of a habit. One little bit at a time. So for now I am instead of turning on my TV to a show I turn it to a music station. Great music, still have visuals, etc. For instance right now I am listening to URGE Radio: Smooth Jazz :-)

It may take time to totally kick the habit, but so far I have gotten lots more done without the movie or TV Show distraction.

So.... how are you doing with holding to your thing you gave up for Lent?