Berea Update for March 27, 2026
We live in a noisy world. Every day brings opinions, distractions, and competing voices telling us what matters most. Yet beneath all of that noise, there is a deeper question many of us carry: Who is truly in control? Easter answers that question—not with louder noise, but with a clearer vision of Jesus. This Sunday, we step into Palm Sunday—the moment when Jesus enters Jerusalem as King. Crowds gather, voices rise, and palm branches fill the streets. It feels like a celebration, and in many ways it is. But as we know, this moment is only the beginning of a much deeper story. The King who enters to shouts of “Hosanna!” is not coming to claim a throne by force, but to give His life for sinners. What looks like triumph is actually the first step toward the cross.
That is why this week matters so much. This year, we have the opportunity to walk slowly and intentionally through the entire week leading up to Easter. The devotional "From Garden to Glory: The King Who Saves" (link below) is designed to guide us day by day—from the triumphal entry, through the temple, the upper room, the cross, the silence of the tomb, and finally to the empty grave. Each step helps us see more clearly who Jesus is: the humble King, the Servant King, the crucified King, and the risen Lord.
My prayer is that this week would not simply be something we rush through or observe from a distance, but something we enter into. Whether around the dinner table, before bed, or in quiet moments alone, may we slow down enough to see the cross clearly—and the empty tomb gloriously. And as we do, may our hearts be drawn to worship Jesus not just as the King who came, but as the King who saves.
Upcoming Events
1. This Sunday, because it's Palm Sunday, we'll be jumping ahead in our sermon series on Mark called "Who Do You Say That I Am?" to focus on the triumphal entry of Jesus to Jerusalem. We'll be in Mark 11:1-12, with a sermon called, "The King Enters Jerusalem." We'll have palm branches available for all families to take home one with them and we'll be recognizing our Berea AWANA Clubbers who won an award during Wednesday's Grand Prix. As a reminder, there will be a business meeting on Sunday evening at 6:00 PM in the Family Life Center.
2. Next Sunday is Easter Sunday! As we remember our Lord's death, burial, and resurrection, we pray that you'll be able to participate in the many events planned for this upcoming week. Cards are available at the Welcome Center to pick up this Sunday that give all the details. Use these cards to invite friends and family members to join us! Here is a schedule of events:
Wednesday, April 1
Time of Prayer at Resurrection Garden 6:30 PM (NO AWANA)
Church-wide invitation to fast together: Begin fast at 5:30 PM (will end on Thursday, April 2 at 5:30 PM)
Thursday, April 2
Communion/Foot Washing Service 6:30 PM (Family Life Center)
Fasting ends at 5:30 PM (for those who choose to participate)
Friday, April 3-- GOOD FRIDAY
Service at the Crosses 6:30 PM
Sunday, April 5-- EASTER SUNDAY
7:30 AM Sunrise Service at Resurrection Garden, followed by Breakfast in Family Life Center (No Sunday School)
10:00 AM Morning Worship Service in Family Life Center
3. The 2026 Operation Christmas Child Kick-Off will be held on Saturday, April 11 at 9:00 AM here at the church in the Gathering Area. Come hear what's coming in 2026, and also we'll be joined by a real-life shoebox recipient who will share his story. Snacks will also be provided! Come for a sweet time of fellowship together!
4. There will be a baby shower for Elioena Stevens on Saturday, April 11 at 4:00 PM at 218 E. McCreight Ave in Springfield. Ladies, please plan to attend a special time of worship, fellowship, and a short devotional, along with food and refreshments. Parking is limited, but you are encouraged to park at the nearby Family Dollar or at Walgreens.
Ways You Can Pray This Week
1. Pray for opportunities to share the Gospel this week as we approach Easter! Pray that hearts and minds are softened to the Word of God and the truth of the Gospel!
***Please know that there are many individuals who need prayer this week due to health concerns and other events going on in their lives. Out of sensitivity to each individual's situation, these requests may not appear in this weekly blog. We have a "Prayer Team" at the church who receives more detailed information, and commits to praying for individuals in our church family.
This Week's Devotions
A week-long devotion called
"From Garden to Glory: The King Who Saves" was made available last Sunday, and will also be available this Sunday in hard copy format. You are encouraged to use this devotional to guide you and your family through the upcoming Easter week. Each day has a passage to read, some devotional thoughts and reflection questions, and activities and songs. If you haven't picked up a hard copy, or would prefer an online version, it is available here:
From Garden to Glory: The King Who Saves Devotional
Kids (and Kids at Heart) Korner
Families are encouraged to participate in the week-long devotional, which has activities to complete as a family, and songs that can be sung together during a time of family worship!
Have a great weekend! Hope to see you Sunday!
Mark