/PRNewswire/ Themes of hope, courage, and recognizing our common humanity run through the 23 films, TV programs, and books for adults and young people being.
The writer of the Gospel of John gives himself an odd nickname: “The Disciple Whom Jesus Loved.” In other translations, John refers to himself as the “Beloved Disciple.” We don’t know the real meaning behind the name because John provides no explanation of it. But perhaps John uses this name as a reminder to himself and others of Jesus’ loving ministry here on earth and the disciples’ call to spread the message of that love to every nation.
Pontius Pilate was a Roman prefect (or governor) over Judea in the early first century (about 26-36 AD). Those who have read about Pilate in the Gospel accounts may know of him as a man who saw Jesus was guiltless, but let his fear of the crowds seize him. He gave into cowardice and allowed for Jesus to be killed. We can read about the account of Pilate in Matthew 27 and John 18:28-40.
Jesus originally chose 12 disciples out of his many followers. But after Judas betrayed Jesus and eventually killed himself, there was a hole in that original number. So, the remaining disciples prayed and cast lots, eventually deciding on Matthias to rep.
Ascension Day reminds us that Jesus' story didn't end when he came out of the tomb on Easter Sunday. More miraculous behavior was coming, and it would change his believers' lives in new ways..