Pastor Stephen Dedman

The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭121‬:‭8‬ 

This verse encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the moment we step out into the world to the time we return home, God’s watchful eye is upon us. He cares about our safety, our well-being, and our spiritual growth.

The promise of preservation isn’t limited to a particular season or circumstance. It extends “from this time forth, and even forevermore.” God’s love and protection are eternal. He doesn’t just watch over us today or in times of trouble, but His care endures for all eternity.

In your daily life, remember that you are not alone. God is with you in every step, guiding, guarding, and preserving you. When you face challenges, find peace in His presence. When you achieve success, give thanks for His continued watch over you. Let this verse be a source of encouragement and a reminder that you are cherished by the God who watches over you now and forevermore.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your constant watchful care. Help me to trust in Your unfailing love and protection, knowing that You preserve my every step, today and for all eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭5‬-‭6‬

Easter Sunday is the heart of our hope. It is the day that defines our faith, for if Christ had not risen, our preaching and our faith would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). But He did rise just as He said He would. The stone was rolled away, not so Jesus could get out, but so we could see in and witness the truth: the tomb is empty.

In that moment, everything changed. Death was defeated, sin lost its grip, and hope came alive in a new and eternal way. The resurrection is not just a historical event, it is a present reality. Jesus is alive, and because He lives, we can face whatever comes our way with confidence, joy, and peace.

Let Easter remind you that no situation is too far gone. No heart is too hard. No night is too dark. Resurrection is what God does. He brings life out of death, joy out of sorrow, and victory out of defeat.

Pray

Lord, thank You for conquering the grave and rising again. You are the risen King, my living hope, and my constant Savior. Help me live in the power of Your resurrection every day, sharing the joy and truth of Easter with the world around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭5‬

Good Friday is the most somber day in the Christian calendar, a day marked by suffering, silence, and sorrow. It is the day when the Son of God, innocent and pure, willingly gave Himself up to death for the sake of the world.

As we remember the cross, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by its brutality. The betrayal, the mocking, the scourging, the nails, the thorns and all of it speaks to the depth of human sin and the extent of God’s love. Jesus didn’t just suffer physically. He bore the full weight of our guilt and shame.

Why call such a horrific day “good?” Because of what it accomplished.

On the cross, Jesus didn’t just die, He conquered. With every drop of blood, He was purchasing freedom. With every cry of agony, He was fulfilling prophecy. With His final breath, He was opening the door to redemption.

This is the paradox of the cross: death brought life. Darkness led to light. Judgment made way for mercy. The tomb was not the end, it was only the beginning.

As we reflect on the crucifixion today, let us not rush past the weight of what Jesus endured. Sit in the silence. Feel the sorrow. But do so with hope in your heart, because Sunday is coming.

Pray

Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross. Thank You for enduring what I deserved so I could receive what I never could earn grace, mercy, and eternal life. Help me to never take Your sacrifice lightly. Let Your love shape my heart and lead my life. Today, I pause to remember…and to worship. In Jesus’ name, amen.