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Welcome to Day 14 of our journey through “Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: An Inspirational Study on Luke” by Dustin Royer. Today, we arrive at the cornerstone events of our faith—the passion, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. These events are the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan and the foundation of Christian belief.
In Luke 22-24, we witness the profound and transformative journey of Jesus from His Last Supper with His disciples to His resurrection from the dead.
The Last Supper
Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord’s Supper. He breaks bread and shares the cup, symbolizing His body and blood given for the salvation of humanity.
“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same way, after the supper, He took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'” (Luke 22:19-20 NIV)
The Crucifixion
Jesus is arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion. On the cross, He bears the weight of humanity’s sins, offering forgiveness and redemption. As He breathes His last, He says:
“Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” (Luke 23:46 NIV)
Darkness covers the land, and the curtain of the temple is torn in two, symbolizing the new access to God made possible through Jesus’ sacrifice.
The Resurrection
On the third day, the women find the tomb empty and are greeted by angels who declare:
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:5-6 NIV)
Jesus appears to His disciples, showing them His hands and feet, proving that He is alive. He explains the Scriptures concerning Himself and commissions them to preach repentance and forgiveness in His name to all nations.
Key Lessons
- Sacrificial Love: Jesus’ willing sacrifice on the cross demonstrates the depth of God’s love for us and His commitment to our redemption.
- Victory Over Death: The resurrection is the ultimate victory over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe.
- Commissioned to Share: Jesus’ followers are entrusted with the message of the Gospel, called to share the Good News of His resurrection and the hope it brings.
Reflection:
- Read Luke 22-24: Reflect on the events of Jesus’ passion, crucifixion, and resurrection.
- Consider: How does the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross impact your understanding of God’s love? What does His resurrection mean for your daily life and faith?
Prayer/Action:
Pray for a heart that fully grasps the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the power of His resurrection. Reflect on how you can live out the hope and joy of the resurrection in your everyday life. Consider sharing the message of Jesus’ death and resurrection with someone who needs to hear the Good News.
Conclusion:
As we conclude our 14-day journey through “Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: An Inspirational Study on Luke,” I hope you have been deeply inspired and transformed by the life, teachings, and mission of Jesus. Let His example of love, humility, and sacrifice guide you in your walk of faith, and may the power of His resurrection fill you with hope and courage.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. Stay blessed, and continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Dustin Royer