The Cross and the Dawn of the Gospel — From Death to New Beginnings

Today’s Reading: Matthew 27–28; Mark 1–8

Saturday, 4th October 2025

Introduction

Today’s reading stands at the center of God’s redemptive story. Matthew 27–28 records the climax of Jesus’ earthly mission — His suffering, crucifixion, death, and glorious resurrection. What looked like humanity’s darkest hour becomes heaven’s greatest victory. Through the cross, sin is defeated; through the resurrection, life triumphs over death.

As we transition into the Gospel of Mark, we witness the fresh proclamation of this Good News. Mark opens with urgency and clarity: the Kingdom of God is here, and Jesus, the Son of God, has come to set people free. Miracles, deliverance, authority, and the call to radical discipleship echo once again — but now from the vantage point of the finished work of the cross.

Who is God?

God is the Savior and Redeemer, the One who does not abandon His creation but enters into its suffering to bring salvation. He is powerful over sin and death, faithful to His promises, and victorious in every circumstance. He is the God who turns crucifixion into resurrection and despair into hope.

What are the ways of God?

God works through what seems weak to display His strength. He conquers not by force but by love, not by armies but by the sacrifice of His Son. His ways involve death before resurrection, surrender before victory, and humility before exaltation. Through the cross, He demonstrates that true power is found in self-giving love.

What are His characters?

God is victorious, merciful, and unchanging. He is faithful to redeem, patient with humanity, and passionate in His pursuit of the lost. His character is revealed in Jesus, who forgives His enemies from the cross, rises in triumph, and commissions His followers with authority and purpose.

Golden Nugget

The cross is where sin was defeated, and the resurrection is where life began anew. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is now at work in you.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the victory of the cross and the power of the resurrection. Help me live each day in the reality of what Jesus accomplished for me. Teach me to walk in resurrection power, proclaim the gospel boldly, and follow Christ with unwavering devotion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Activation Challenge

Reflect: Are you living as someone set free by the cross and empowered by the resurrection?Respond: Share the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection with someone this week.Renew: Step into a new level of boldness and obedience, knowing that resurrection power lives in you.

Next Reading – Day 97 (Sunday, 5th Oct 2025): 

Mark 9–16 – Continue the journey through the Gospel as Jesus reveals the cost of discipleship and the power of faith.