Day 1: Hope in the Face of Despair Reading: Luke 24:1-12 Just like the women who went to Jesus' tomb that first Easter morning, we often approach life's challenges with heavy hearts and clouded vision. Their grief and despair initially blinded them to the miraculous reality of the resurrection. How often do we miss God's work in our lives because we're too focused on our problems? Today, reflect on a situation in your life where hope seems lost. Remember that God specializes in the impossible. God turned the tragedy of the cross into the triumph of the resurrection. God can breathe new life into your circumstances, too. Ask God to open your eyes to see signs of His hope around you this week, even in unexpected places. Day 2: The Power of Remembrance Reading: Luke 24:13-35 The disciples on the road to Emmaus didn't recognize Jesus until he reminded them of Scripture and broke bread with them. Then, “their eyes were opened” (Luke 24:31). Sometimes, we too need reminders of God's faithfulness and promises to rekindle our hope. Take time today to recall moments in your life when God has been faithful. Write down specific instances where you've seen God work. When doubt creeps in, return to these memories as anchors for your faith. Consider starting a “remembrance journal” to document God's ongoing presence in your life. Day 3: Love That Cannot Be Silenced Reading: Romans 8:31-39 Pastor Josh said “God's love will not be silenced.” Even death itself couldn't stop Jesus from demonstrating God's love for humanity. This unstoppable love is the foundation of our hope and the source of our courage in difficult times. Meditate on the depth and breadth of God's love described in Romans 8. How does remembering that nothing can separate you from God's love change your perspective on your current challenges? How might you share this unsilenceable love to others who may be struggling to see hope in their lives? Day 4: Awakening to God's New Story Reading: Revelation 21:1-7 Devotional: Easter isn't just about remembering a past event; it's about participating in God's ongoing work of renewal. Pastor Josh asserts that God is “stirring something up in the church and awakening a renewal like we have never seen.” As you read about the new heaven and new earth, imagine how God might be inviting you to be part of this renewal story right now. What old patterns or beliefs might God be asking you to leave behind? What new things might Jesus be calling you to embrace? Pray for the courage to step into the new story God is writing in and through your life. Day 5: Hope as a Witness Reading: 1 Peter 3:13-17 In a world often marked by cynicism and despair, our hope in Christ can be a powerful testimony. Peter encourages followers of Jesus to always be ready to explain the reason for their hope. How does your life demonstrates hope to those around you? Are there areas where your actions or attitudes might be contradicting the hope you profess? Ask God to help you live in a way that naturally prompts others to ask about the source of your hope. Consider sharing your Easter hope with someone today, whether through words or acts of kindness that reflect Christ's love.