Journey to the Cross 
Pause
Parties are sometimes the result of long and detailed planning. They involve decorations, music, food, and formal invitations.
Sometimes, though, parties break out in an all-of-a-sudden kind of way when somebody notices that there is reason to celebrate—right now!
You might think of the Scriptures as one huge invitation to God’s party. See if you can’t find a good reason—right now—to join the celebration.
Listen
When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus began to weep.
John 11:32–35
Think
Have you ever gotten angry at God? Not like being angry at your brother or sister for taking so long in the shower. I mean really angry. Angry that you’re not invited to a party; angry with your best friend for breaking your trust; or angry that, despite one hundred prayers, your friend died. You fill in the blank. Angry at God.
You’re not the only one. Plenty of people get angry at God. Lazarus’ sister, Mary, was angry with Jesus, and she was honest about it. She cried, “If you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Her emotions were raw and real. And Jesus heard her anger and her sadness. He felt her pain. And he cried, too.
A true relationship is being honest about how you feel. Even if you’re angry, tell God how you feel. God can take it.
Jenifer Gamber
Pray
God who is big enough to take anything, be with me this week at school through its ups and downs. Thank you for letting me share anything with you, even if I’m angry. Just be there for me. Amen.
Go
It takes at least two to celebrate;
But, you know, the more the merrier!
God has made all the preparations
And now awaits your response.
Why not join all the many others
Who have also joined the party?
It’s the best celebration ever!
