Dear Reader,

Following the events leading to the death and resurrection of our Savior often holds a somber air we often overlook, skipping the torture and grief so we can rush forward to Sunday and proclaim that He is risen—but it’s just a piece of the story.

Just a piece of the devastatingly beautiful, sacrificial love that Jesus shows us. In grief, in sorrow… and highlighted with an undeniable flame of hope that sparked to life.

Maundy Thursday leads this thought process deeper as events unfold and the love of Jesus becomes clear as He puts forth a new covenant, and then utterly humbles himself and washes the disciple’s feet.

We cannot help but wonder how Jesus felt in those moments, breaking bread like His body would, setting forth wine that sealed a covenant where the price to pay for His beloved Bride was His life. Did his thoughts race faster than His heart? Did He cling to hope in the face of His sacrifice as He said, “You don’t understand what I do now, but you will.”

It’s hard to understand the sorrow.

The ache of loss in life.

The devastation of seeing a completely different outcome.

The desolation that comes from hope deferred.

What victory can we know when pain steals the air from our lungs?

We couldn’t have understood what He was doing then, but we do now.

Devastation and sorrow gave way to hope and joy.

Freshly washed feet in the process of mourning turned into a joyous race across the countryside to proclaim our risen King.

Each day leading to the crucifixion is laid with deep emotion. Jesus showed righteous anger. Grieved. Trembled under the weight of what was to come. Still, hope and love were woven together, coexisting and highlighting the utter humanity and complete holiness of the Son of God.

To know the utter joy of the victory come Sunday, we must also know the sorrow and grief to come. How can we understand the totality of the covenant Jesus made at the last supper if we do not sit with the entirety of His actions?

As you walk through your day, we want to encourage you not to skip the grief—in the process of Jesus’ sacrifice and in your own life. Don't back away from the discomfort of sorrow. Don’t skim the words of Jesus’ final days and miss the fullness of hope and victory we celebrate.

Take heart, and remember that we can grieve loss even when we know the victory to come. Don’t run from hope just because circumstances look as if all is lost.

Our greatest hope—Jesus Christ—is near.

The resurrection is coming.

‭‭“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭26‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Awakening Hope Ministries:

Upcoming Events

Rapid City, SD - May 2 & 3

Join us for a NIGHT OF HOPE! Two ministries – Two nights – lots of ways for you to be blessed!!

We are excited to partner with Bishop Joseph Ministries International (BJMI.US) to see what the Lord is going to do in Rapid City, SD.

There will be a powerful time of worship, followed by solid Biblical preaching from Dean Goossen and Bishop Boaz Joseph.

Whether you are a Christian needing a miracle or a person wondering if God is even real? There will be something their for everyone!

A big ministry team will be present to facilitate:

Salvation
Prayer for healing
Deliverance
Prayer Lines

Join us at this powerful and unique event! We believe the Lord will minister to you!

Location: The Monument: LaCroix C&D Ballroom Rapid City, SD

Do you feel called to serve and seek the lost? To minister and be a part of a team that embodies the love of Christ? We need YOUR help to bless Rapid City. There is a place for all gifts and believers of all skill levels! Be sharpened in prayer, go to war in deliverance and be the hands and feet of Jesus as an usher.

Partner with us—and see what the Lord will do through you and in you by your obedience and willingness to bless others!

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We want to hear from you!

Do you have questions about God? Or a testimony of His impact in your life? If you have questions, requests on topics you want to see, and more, contact us here!

We are overjoyed to be able to directly share with you about all the Lord has been doing through Awakening Hope Ministries and to send a little encouragement right to your inbox. Please continue to partner with us in prayer as the Lord leads us!

WANT TO SEE US IN ACTION?

Upcoming events:

MAY 2 - Night of Hope

Rapid City, SD • 6pm
Come and be blessed by this free event at the end of March. Expect that the Lord will move—in worship, powerful preaching And personal ministry. Come and be healed, set free, and encouraged in your walk with Christ. Bring your friends who need the Gospel!

MAY 3 - Night of Hope

What is Awakening Hope Ministries?

We are here because we understand what it’s like to crave intimacy with God. We built this ministry out of a belief that we’re always growing and becoming more aware of Christ working in and through us. In 2011, Awakening Hope Ministries was born out of the overwhelming passion that God has put in us to use the gifts He has given us to impact the body of Christ and to be a witness to the world. Our mission is to preach the uncompromising Word of God, worship with abandon, pray, and minister to anyone willing to receive.

We want an awakening.

Lighting Fires and Fanning Flames,

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