This week we see that confession of sin is lead by the genuine recognition of the holiness of God. God's people had promised to be faithful, but following their return from exile, the people turned to being unfaithful to God and disobeying His commands. Yet God remained faithful. The people saw the greatness of God which led them to repentance.

Ezra was approached by the nations leaders who shared the negative behaviors and lifestyles of the people. It was as if they had forgotten God. Ezra's response of honest confession before a holy God ought to teach us something about his character and about our need to do likewise. Ezra confessed the sins of the nation to God through prayer and sought forgiveness. Ezra took his sin seriously, asked for repentance and celebrated God's grace .

Anger and bitterness are common reactions to bad news. However, Nehemiah responded in the right way by recognizing God's faithfulness. He asked God to hear him. He showed his reliance on God even in hard times. Nehemiah's response demonstrated a deep love, trust, and confidence in God.

Life circumstances can be hard at times. It is in those hard times that we need to remember God's promises. God's promises remind us to trust Him. Ahaz was reminded by the prophet Isaiah of these promises. God is present!

Daniel's past faithfulness opened the door for future opportunities. His faithfulness to God showed his character and whom he served. This character was evident to those around him by Daniel's name being known as someone who served God. See how Daniel's faithfulness to God was able to serve others.

Daniel was faced with the decision to either honor the Lord or follow the cultural customs of Babylon that dishonored the commands of God. No matter what, Daniel had a deep confidence in the Lord and his story with his friends is one that we can learn from.

The prophet Jeremiah tried to warn the king and people to stop sinning and to turn back to God, but they didn't listen. So God sent His judgment by bringing the king of Babylon to Judah. Even in the midst of hardship, God still shared encouragement by reminding His people that He has a saving plan.

Jesus’ death and resurrection are what we celebrate during Easter. We celebrate because Jesus helped humanity’s broken relationship with God, and His actions created a way to mend that broken relationship. He became our Savior, taking the penalty of our sins upon Himself. However, we don’t just serve a Savior who willingly died for us - but also rose from the dead! Hallelujah!

Waiting can be difficult, but when the wait is over it is so worth it and we can get so excited. This is what was happening as Jesus entered Jerusalem. People yelled, waved palm branches, and laid their coats down. They celebrated Jesus. Little did they realize Jesus would save His people in a way very different than anticipated. During the Passover meal with his disciples, Jesus was preparing Himself and his disciples for the work He was about to do.