Week 5: Death and Grief

Theme: Dying to Self for New Life – Embrace the spiritual reality of letting go of the old to make room for resurrection and renewal.

Focus Scripture: John 12:24 – “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”

Connect: Extravagant gifts often leave a lasting impression. What does it mean to give or receive something that feels truly meaningful, especially when it requires sacrifice—whether time, energy, or letting go of something important?

Engage: In John 12, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume, an act of deep love and devotion. Others criticized her, but Jesus defended her, seeing it as preparation for His burial. Mary’s act reminds us that love often requires sacrifice and letting go. It also points us to the greater sacrifice Jesus would soon make for all of us. To follow Him, we are invited to let go of the things we hold tightly, trusting that God will use our surrender to bring new life.

Apply: What is something you’re holding onto that might keep you from fully following Jesus? Ask God to help you release it in faith, knowing He will bring something even greater through your surrender.