21-Day Bible Reading and Fasting Curriculum:

Key Verse:

Matthew 4:17  - "From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, 'Repent, for the Kingdom of heavens is at hand."

Reflection:

The first thirteen chapters of Matthew set the stage for Jesus' ministry, revealing profound truths about His identity and the nature of His kingdom. Beginning with the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1), we see God's faithfulness through generations, showing that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, fulfilling the promises made to patriarchs and prophets.

As we read through the Nativity story and the events surrounding Jesus' birth, we are reminded that kingship in God's kingdom is often different from our expectations. Jesus was born in humble surroundings, emphasizing the kingdom's invitation to those who are lowly and marginalized. The visit from the Magi signifies that this message is for all nations, reflecting the inclusive nature of God’s love.

Moving into the early ministry of Jesus, particularly the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), we encounter powerful teachings on righteousness, love, and humility. Jesus redefines greatness as servanthood and calls us to be peacemakers and merciful, laying a foundation for moral and ethical living that challenges societal norms.

In Matthew 13, we find the parables of the kingdom—simple yet profound illustrations that illuminate the nature of God’s reign. The parable of the sower reminds us of the various responses to God’s word, challenging us to assess the condition of our hearts. The mustard seed and the leaven illustrate how God’s kingdom grows subtly yet significantly in the world around us, urging us to have faith in its expansion despite our limited perspective.

Application

1. Examine Your Heart: Reflect on the condition of your heart in response to the word of God. Are there thorns or rocky places that hinder growth? Repent and ask God to till the soil of your heart.

2. Embrace Humility: Consider how Jesus’ humble beginnings challenge you to live differently. In what ways can you embody the values of the kingdom—serving others, showing mercy, and seeking peace?

3. Participate in Kingdom Growth: Identify ways you can contribute to the growth of God's kingdom in your community. This might involve serving at a local ministry, sharing the gospel, or simply encouraging a friend.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus as the Messiah. Help me to embrace the values of Your kingdom and to live with humility, love, and a desire for righteousness. May my life reflect Your light, drawing others to You. Teach me to sow seeds of faith in my heart and the hearts of others, trusting in Your promise that the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Amen.

Matthew 28:19-20 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Reflection

In the latter chapters of Matthew, we witness the profound unfolding of Jesus' ministry, leading to His crucifixion and resurrection. These passages encapsulate the heart of the gospel—Jesus' mission to save humanity and instruct His followers on how to live in light of that salvation.

Beginning with the feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21), we are reminded of Jesus' compassion. He saw the crowd, filled with needs and hunger, and acted with kindness. This miracle teaches us about God’s provision and our call to meet the needs of others. Reflect on how you can demonstrate compassion in your community, echoing Jesus’ example.

As we move through His miracles, including walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33), we are compelled to confront fear. When Peter steps out onto the waves at Jesus’ command, he demonstrates faith, but when his focus shifts to the storm, he begins to sink. This story illustrates the power of faith amidst life's challenges; as long as we keep our eyes on Jesus, we can overcome our fears.

The latter chapters detail the growing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, culminating in His arrest and trial. These events lead us to the heart of the gospel message—Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross (Matthew 27). Reflect on the immense cost of your salvation and the deep love shown through His suffering.

The resurrection is the ultimate proclamation of hope, found in Matthew 28. The empty tomb signifies victory over sin and death. Jesus’ command to "go and make disciples" reminds us that the work of the kingdom continues through us. We are called to share this hope and the good news with others, knowing that Jesus promises to be with us always.

Application

1. Practice Compassion: Reflect on a specific situation where you can act with kindness, just as Jesus did. Whether it’s volunteering time, providing for someone's needs, or simply offering a listening ear, seek to embody Jesus’ love.

2. Face Your Fears: Identify a fear that's holding you back from following where Jesus leads. How can you take a step of faith in that area, trusting in His presence and power?

3. Consider the Cost: Spend time in prayer to understand the significance of Jesus' sacrifice for you. How does this deepen your gratitude and commitment to live for Him?

4. Embrace the Great Commission: Think about your role in making disciples. Who in your life can you share your faith with? Plan a conversation or an invitation to share your journey.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for the incredible gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus. Help me to live in a way that reflects His love and sacrifice. Grant me courage to overcome my fears and to reach out to those in need. May I be faithful in sharing the good news of the gospel with others, knowing that Your presence goes with me always. Amen.

Key Verse: Mark 10:45 - "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Reflection

The Gospel of Mark is a fast-paced narrative that highlights the active ministry of Jesus, illustrating His authority, compassion, and purpose. From the very first chapter, Mark reveals Christ as the Son of God, introducing His ministry with immediate action—Jesus begins teaching, healing, and casting out demons.

In Mark 1-4, we observe the early days of Jesus' ministry. His authority over nature, sickness, and evil spirits establishes Him as not just a great teacher, but the powerful Messiah. Consider the significance of Jesus healing a leper (Mark 1:40-45) and how it confronts societal boundaries. Reflect on your own life—are there areas where you need to break down barriers to extend compassion and grace?

As we move through the book, Jesus calls His disciples, not merely to learn, but to join Him in His mission (Mark 3:14). This calling is a clear invitation for us as well. Are you actively participating in Jesus' work today? How can you take ownership of your role in the body of Christ?

Mark contrasts the growing fame of Jesus with the increasing opposition from religious leaders. The parables of the kingdom (Mark 4) remind us of the transformative power of God’s message. As you reflect on the parables, think about what it means to cultivate a heart that is receptive to God’s word and willing to share it with others.

The later chapters take us to the climax of Jesus' mission—His passion, death, and resurrection. In Mark 15, we encounter the deep agony of the cross, where Jesus bears the weight of our sin. This moment is both tragic and triumphant, revealing the depth of God's love and the victory over sin and death. As you meditate on the crucifixion, consider what it cost Jesus and how that impacts your relationship with Him.

The resurrection (Mark 16) is the cornerstone of our faith, affirming that Jesus is alive and His victory is complete. The empty tomb brings hope and purpose, commissioning His followers to spread the good news to the ends of the earth. How does the reality of the resurrection empower you to live boldly for Christ today?

Application

1. Embrace Action: Reflect on how you can embody the active nature of Mark’s Gospel in your life. What specific actions can you take this week to serve others, mirroring Jesus' example?

2. Break Down Barriers: Consider someone in your life who might feel marginalized or isolated. How can you reach out to them with compassion and understanding, as Jesus did with the leper?

3. Participate in the Mission: Identify your unique gifts and talents. How can you use them to further the mission of Christ within your church or community?

4. Cultivate a Receptive Heart: Spend time in prayer, asking God to prepare your heart to receive His word. What areas of your life need to be softened to accept His guidance and truth?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your example of service, sacrifice, and love. Help me to actively participate in Your mission and to carry Your light into the world. Teach me to break down barriers and extend compassion to those around me. As I reflect on Your death and resurrection, may I live with hope and boldness, sharing the good news with others. Amen.

Key Verse: Luke 19:10 - "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." :

Reflection

The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed account of Jesus' life and ministry, emphasizing His compassion, inclusivity, and mission to the marginalized. In the opening chapters (Luke 1-2), the birth narratives of John the Baptist and Jesus reveal a God who intervenes in human history to bring hope and salvation. The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) expresses Mary’s joy and highlights God’s concern for the humble and oppressed. As you reflect on Mary's song, consider how you can recognize and celebrate God's work in your life, particularly in moments of uncertainty.

In Luke 3-4, John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus, calling people to repentance. Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom of God emphasizes that it is accessible to everyone, regardless of their social status. The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13) shows His reliance on Scripture and the Holy Spirit, serving as a model for us when facing our own temptations. What strategies can you employ to stay grounded in God’s word during challenging times?

Throughout chapters 5-12, we see Jesus interacting with diverse groups of people—tax collectors, sinners, the sick, and the marginalized. His actions challenge social and religious norms, demonstrating that God’s grace extends far beyond our expectations. The parables of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) remind us of the depths of God’s mercy and the call to love our neighbors without prejudice. How are you called to extend compassion and love in your community?

Jesus also teaches about the cost of discipleship (Luke 9:23-24). Following Him requires sacrifice and a commitment to His mission. As you reflect on your own journey, what sacrifices are you willing to make to faithfully pursue your relationship with Christ? Are there comforts or distractions you need to let go of?

The call to prayer is prevalent in Luke as well. Jesus models this for His disciples, emphasizing its significance. The Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:1-4) reveals God's fatherly care and the importance of aligning our will with His. How can you cultivate a deeper prayer life that nurtures your relationship with God and keeps you attuned to His leading?

Application

1. Celebrate God's Work: Take time to reflect on how God has worked in your life. Write down moments of His faithfulness and grace, and consider sharing your testimony with someone this week.

2. Grounding in Scripture: Choose a specific scripture to meditate on this week, particularly during times of temptation or struggle. How can this verse guide your decisions and responses?

3. Extend Compassion: Identify a specific way you can reach out to someone in need—whether through a kind word, volunteering, or offering practical help. Make a plan to act on this.

4. Sacrifice for Discipleship: Consider the comforts or distractions that may be hindering your relationship with Christ. What steps can you take to prioritize your faith and remove those barriers?

5. Developing Prayer Life: Commit to a daily prayer routine, whether through written prayers, conversation, or silence. How can this deepen your understanding of God’s will for your life?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to seek and save the lost. Help me to emulate His compassion and love in my daily interactions. Teach me to prioritize Your word, nurture my prayer life, and willingly make sacrifices in my pursuit of discipleship. May my life reflect Your grace and mercy, drawing others to You. Amen.

Contemplation:

Spend a few moments in silence, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your reflections. Consider specific areas in your life where you feel God is calling you to grow in compassion, prayer, or discipleship. Listen for His voice and be prepared to respond.

Key Verse: Luke 24:6-7 - "He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise."

Reflection

In the latter chapters of Luke, we witness the culmination of Jesus' ministry, leading to His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection. This section of Scripture is rich with teachings, parables, and profound moments that shape our understanding of God's redemptive plan.

As we delve into Luke 13-14, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of repentance and the reality of judgment. His warnings serve as a call to examine our lives and prioritize our relationship with Him. Consider the parable of the fig tree (Luke 13:6-9) and its message about bearing fruit. What areas of your life need pruning to foster spiritual growth? 

In Luke 15, we encounter three powerful parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. Each story illustrates God's relentless pursuit of the lost and His immense joy when they are found. Reflect on how these parables challenge your understanding of grace and forgiveness. Who in your life might need your love and forgiveness today?

Moving into the final weeks of Jesus’ earthly ministry, we see the heightened tension with the religious leaders. In Luke 20, Jesus responds to their challenges with wisdom, revealing the significance of His authority as the Messiah. His parables highlight the reality of the kingdom of God and the expectations of those who follow Him. How do you demonstrate the values of the kingdom in your daily life?

The narrative of the Last Supper (Luke 22) is a poignant reminder of Jesus' institution of the Eucharist, symbolizing His body and blood given for our salvation. As you reflect on this sacrament, consider its significance in your faith journey. How does participating in communion deepen your connection to Christ and the broader community of believers?

The trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus (Luke 23-24) encapsulate the core of Christian faith. In the pain and suffering of the cross, Jesus offers forgiveness for all humanity. His resurrection brings hope, confirming that death has been defeated. How does the reality of the resurrection transform your perspective on life’s challenges and uncertainties?

Application

1. Examine Your Life: Take time to reflect on your spiritual fruit. Are there areas in your life that need pruning? What practices can you embrace to enhance your connection with God?

2. Extend Forgiveness: Identify someone you need to forgive or reach out to, reflecting God’s grace as demonstrated in the parables. Make a plan to show them love and mercy.

3. Live Kingdom Values: Consider how you can actively demonstrate the values of the kingdom of God in your everyday interactions. What actions can you take to reflect Christ's love and grace?

4. Communion Reflection: If you participate in communion, spend time reflecting on its significance. How does it represent your relationship with Jesus and the body of Christ?

5. Resurrection Hope: Meditate on the reality of the resurrection. What fears or uncertainties in your life can you bring before God, trusting in His power to bring new life and hope?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son and the incredible sacrifice He made on the cross. Help me to examine my heart and align my life with Your desires. Teach me to extend forgiveness and love to others as You have shown to me. As I reflect on the resurrection, may I live with hope and confidence, knowing that death has been defeated through Christ. Amen.

Key Verse: John 1:14 - "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Reflection

The Gospel of John opens with one of the most profound declarations in Scripture—the Word became flesh. This introduction sets the stage for understanding who Jesus is: both fully divine and fully human. As we explore chapters 1-10, we witness how Jesus reveals His identity and mission through powerful signs and teachings.

In John 1, John the Baptist bears witness to the light, proclaiming Jesus as the Lamb of God (John 1:29). This profound acknowledgment invites us to reflect on our own witness. How can we proclaim the truth of Jesus in our everyday lives? Are there instances where you can share your faith story with others?

As we read through Jesus' early miracles, including the turning of water into wine (John 2) and the healing of the nobleman’s son (John 4), we see the transformative power of His presence. Each miracle provides a glimpse into the kingdom of God and His desire to meet our needs. Reflect on how Jesus has transformed your life. In what ways can you share that transformation with others?

The theme of spiritual rebirth emerges in John 3, particularly through Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus. Here, He emphasizes the necessity of being born again. This concept invites deep introspection: have you experienced a spiritual rebirth? How does this renewal influence your thoughts, actions, and relationships?

In John 4, Jesus encounters the Samaritan woman at the well, breaking cultural norms and offering her living water. This powerful story illustrates God's desire to reach the marginalized and those burdened by shame. Who in your life may feel like an outcast? How can you extend love and grace, inviting them to experience the living water that Jesus offers?

As we move to John 5, Jesus heals a man at the pool of Bethesda, demonstrating His authority over illness and Sabbath laws. His interaction raises questions about our understanding of rest, legalism, and compassion. How can you embody grace and mercy in a world that often emphasizes rules and regulations over love?

In John 6, Jesus declares Himself the Bread of Life, inviting us to find our sustenance in Him. As you reflect on this teaching, consider what you are feeding your soul. Are there distractions or unhealthy habits that are preventing you from fully experiencing the life that Jesus offers?

Finally, in John 10, Jesus presents Himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His care and love for His sheep. His promise of abundant life resonates deeply: He desires a relationship with us that is not only protective but also enriching. How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with the Good Shepherd in your daily life?

Application

1. Be a Witness: Think about how you can proclaim Jesus in your daily interactions. Write down a personal testimony or a key message of faith you would like to share with someone this week.

2. Share Your Transformation: Reflect on a specific way Jesus has transformed your life. Share this story with someone who may need encouragement or hope.

3. Invite Others to Living Water: Identify someone in your life who may be feeling marginalized or burdened. How can you reach out to them with love and share the hope of Jesus?

4. Evaluate Your Soul’s Nourishment: Assess what you are feeding your mind and spirit. Are there changes you need to make to draw closer to Jesus as the Bread of Life?

5. Cultivate Your Relationship with the Shepherd: Spend intentional time with God each day, asking Him to guide you and deepen your relationship with Him. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Word made flesh, to dwell among us. Help me to bear witness to Your goodness and share my story with others. May I recognize the transformative power of Your presence in my life and extend love to those who feel lost or marginalized. Teach me to find nourishment in You and cultivate my relationship with You as my Good Shepherd. Amen.

Contemplation:

Key Verse: John 11:25-26 - "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?'"

Reflection

The final chapters of John unveil profound truths about Jesus’ identity, His journey towards the cross, and the hope that comes through His resurrection. These passages highlight the heart of our faith and speak deeply to our struggles, fears, and the promise of eternal life.

In John 11, the story of Lazarus is a powerful testament to Jesus’ authority over death and His profound compassion. When Jesus hears of Lazarus’ illness, He intentionally delays His visit, leading to Lazarus’ death. Upon arrival, He meets Martha and Mary, who express their grief and disappointment. Jesus’ declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life,” underscores the hope He offers us in the face of despair. Reflect on the areas in your life where you need to embrace this promise. What does it mean for you to have hope in the midst of challenging circumstances?

As we move into John 12, we see the impact of Jesus’ raising of Lazarus, which incites both awe and opposition. The plot against Jesus intensifies, highlighting the cost of His mission. In the anointing at Bethany, Mary’s act of devotion serves as a reminder of the importance of extravagant love and worship in responding to Jesus' grace. How can you express your love and gratitude to Jesus in your own life?

John 13-17 encompasses the Last Supper and Jesus' teachings to His disciples. In washing their feet, Jesus demonstrates servant leadership, calling us to serve one another with humility. The new command He gives—to love one another as He has loved us—challenges us to deepen our relationships with others. How can you embody this love in your interactions with family, friends, and even strangers?

In John 14, Jesus reassures His disciples of His impending departure, promising the Holy Spirit as the Comforter. This assurance invites us to reflect on how we seek and recognize the Spirit's presence in our lives. How can you cultivate a more profound awareness of the Holy Spirit’s guidance?

The trial, crucifixion, and resurrection in chapters 18-21 showcase the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us and His victory over sin and death. In John 19, we witness the agony of the cross, a moment marked by sorrow yet overflowing with love. Jesus' final words, "It is finished," signify the completion of His work for our salvation. How does this knowledge shape your understanding of God’s love for you?

The resurrection (John 20) transforms despair into joy, providing the promise of eternal life. Jesus' encounter with Mary Magdalene reminds us of His personal relationship with us. How does knowing that He calls you by name change your perspective on your identity and purpose?

Application

1. Hope in Despair: Reflect on a current struggle or situation that feels hopeless. Bring it before God, asking for His perspective and peace. What steps can you take to trust in His resurrection power?

2. Expressing Love: Think of a way you can demonstrate extravagant love and gratitude to Jesus this week. This could be through acts of service, worship, or simply spending quality time in prayer.

3. Practice Humility: Identify opportunities in your life where you can serve others with humility and love, as Jesus did. Look for ways to embody servant leadership in your daily interactions.

4. Awareness of the Spirit: Spend dedicated time in prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you. Be open to how He may lead you in your decisions and interactions with others.

5. Living in Resurrection Joy: Meditate on the meaning of the resurrection in your life. How can you share the joy of this hope with others, encouraging them to experience the love of Christ?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for being the resurrection and the life. Help me to trust in Your promises and to find hope even in my darkest moments. May I demonstrate Your love through my actions and serve others humbly. Fill me with Your Spirit, guiding me in my daily walk, and empower me to share the joy of the resurrection with those around me. Amen.