Three women in the Bible had first-hand experience with the biggest mystery of all. After Jesus died, these women, Mary Magdalene, Mary, the mother of James, and Salome went to Jesus' tomb. When they arrived they discovered "that the stone was rolled back" (16:4). This was the first clue.

Let's talk about this simple cross. What do you see? Yes, this cross is made from two pieces of wood. You may have noticed crosses made from other materials, but always the cross has two pieces joined together like this. One piece points up and the other piece points out. We can think about the part that points up as pointing to God and the part that points out as pointing to the people of the world. (Use crosses that appear in your church as examples.)

In baseball there is a play called a sacrifice hit. The batter hits the ball in a way that allows the runner, who is already on one of the bases, to get to home plate while the batter is put out––unable to score. The batter gives up his chance to score to allow another player to make the point. Sacrifice is a word that means you give up something, that is important to you, for the good of another person.

We see previews of heaven, in the beauty of nature and the love we receive from those around us, every day. This lesson teaches us to live our lives in a way that honors God. Let's celebrate every day as an exciting coming attraction.

When I was a little girl I spent a lot of time on my grandparents' farm. In the evening, when it was time for the cows to be milked, my grandfather sent the farm dog, Tippy, out into the fields to bring the cows to the barn. Tippy, a collie dog, would start the cows down the hill to the barn. The cows formed a line behind the lead cow and they all walked in single file.

When you are discouraged and feel as if your life is full of weeds, remember the words of Jesus, "…don't be troubled" (13:7). Plant a garden in your heart and think about the time when the roses bloom and the strawberries are sweet and juicy and the sunflowers grow tall. Be optimistic!