It is tempting to define ourselves by our accolades and achievements rather than by Christ’s achievement for us on the cross. On Father’s Day, we take a moment to remind men – and women – that they are valued and precious not because of what they do and accomplish, but because of who they are – baptized children of God.

Far too often, we get so caught up in the things of today that we forget about the eternal things of God. This world is more than what we see and the possessions that we have. This is why Paul warns against loving material things like money and, instead, striving toward eternal things such as righteousness, godliness, faith, and love. These are things that will last – not only in this world, but in the next.

You’re in charge. Or not. God created us to be dependent, on Him. But it’s a challenge to believe that, for it requires a sense of humility and a sense of awe to understand how far reaching and how incredibly personal the love of God really is. In the Gospel, Jesus used the imagery of sheep and a shepherd to describe our relationship with him: He’s the shepherd, He’s in charge, and He holds our lives in his hands and provides for us more abundantly than we might ever provide for ourselves. And that’s something we can be thankful for.

On Easter evening and again the following Sunday, because the disciples saw Jesus alive, they knew the resurrection was real, and they believed in Him. They were then able to witness to their faith in spite of opposition and persecution from the Jewish council. Though grieved by various traits, it was the “living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:3) that enabled the Early Church to rejoice. The reality of the resurrection becomes evident to people around us as we live out our faith, confessing Jesus as Lord and offering peace and forgiveness in His name. As they come to faith, they join us and “have life in His name” (John 20:31).

Today is Good Friday, the day on which we remember our Lord’s death on the cross. Watching him die, Jesus’ enemies mocked him and said, “Save yourself!” Jesus did not save himself. He died to save his enemies, and he died to save us. He suffered and died for the sins of the world. This sad day is a day that is for us very good.

The crowds on Palm Sunday welcomed Jesus, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna!” That word means “Save us now!” and soon Jesus would do just that. Today we welcome our Savior and celebrate the salvation he won for us through his death and resurrection. From our humble King we learn to live in humility towards one another.