The Focus: We Are Empowered

Scripture: John 20:21–22

As our “Risen Indeed” journey continues, we witness a sacred moment: Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” What began in fear now shifts to bold commissioning. This is more than just comfort—it’s a call to go, equipped with divine power.

Jesus doesn’t send us in our own strength. He fills us with His Spirit—God’s empowering presence—so we can bring His hope, forgiveness, and love into the world. Even when we feel weak or unqualified, He offers all we need. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead now lives in us, fueling courage, compassion, and creativity for every mission He gives.

Let’s open ourselves to the Spirit’s empowering breath this week. May we step into new opportunities, confident that God goes before us and works through us.

Let’s pray,

Risen Jesus, breathe your spirit into my life.

May you again fill, refresh, and revive me.

Pour out upon me the wine of Your life and the river of living water, renewing my soul.

Anoint me with the oil of gladness and the fire of the Holy Ghost, igniting passion and boldness within.

Let the roar of the Lion awaken courage, and the love of the Lamb bring restoration and reconciliation.

May Your Spirit’s outpouring empower me to serve, witness, and love others.

Use my life for Your glory, and let me overflow with Your presence every day. Amen.

As we move beyond recent milestones and seasons, let us pause to realign our priorities and seek God’s direction for what lies ahead.

Glorious Father, we come before You with gratitude for each new day and the opportunities it brings. As we approach Memorial Day, a signal of summer in our culture, may you grant us clarity and insight for our decisions in our work, service, and personal journeys.

Guide our steps regarding health, vacation plans, well-being, and the rhythms that sustain us.

We ask for Your blessings on the families with children as they finish the school year; may they experience joy and rest. Guard and guide children who are graduating and show them the path ahead for their lives.

Ignite within us a renewed sense of purpose, energy for our daily tasks, and the discernment to pursue new paths or make needed changes.

As we embrace this season of renewal, help us trust Your leading, confident that You are guiding us toward growth and fulfillment.

We consecrate our lives, our plans, and our work unto you.

We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Focus: Honest Questions, Deeper Faith

Scripture: John 20:24–29

This week in our “Risen Indeed” journey, we stand with Thomas, who longs for certainty in the midst of doubt. He wants proof that Jesus is alive, and the risen Christ meets him right where he is. Jesus invites Thomas to touch His wounds, offering gentle assurance instead of rebuke. In that encounter, doubt becomes faith, and questions lead to a powerful confession: “My Lord and my God!”

We all face moments of uncertainty—times when faith doesn’t come easily.

Jesus welcomes our honest questions and meets us in the struggle, never turning us away.

He turns our doubts into deeper trust, inviting us to experience His real, living presence.

Let us pray:

Risen Lord, thank You for meeting me in my doubts and questions, just as You sought out Thomas without condemnation.

When I struggle to believe, show me Your kindness and patience.

Walk through every wall in my life—fear, confusion, or disappointment—so I can see You and experience Your love firsthand.

Strengthen my faith and help me trust You, even when I cannot see.

Use my honest questions to draw me closer, turning uncertainty into deeper faith, and unlimited worship.

Thank You for never shaming Thomas or me for doubting, but inviting us to encounter You, restoring us in faith, hope, and love.

Amen.