Sixth Sunday of Easter

 

Opening Prayer

Holy Spirit

Come

Stir up the dust

Ignite our faith

Remain

Holy Spirit

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 15:1-2, 22-29

• Are rules, laws and guidelines necessary? Why or why not?
• How do you achieve peace of mind? Is it possible to find peace of mind?

 Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23

• Draw a picture to represent the image in this scripture.
• How does this scripture make you feel? How does it affect your faith?  What does it tell you about God?

 John 14:23-29

• How is God speaking to you in this scripture? What simple message does it speak to all believers?
• Does something stir inside as you read this scripture? How are you being lead to move?  What is God asking you to do?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Why is it important for people to question?
• What good comes from debate? What bad?
• How do you determine when to share your opinion and when to hold back?
• On a scale from 1-10, how open are you to others opinions? Do you allow people to take over and do what they want or do you stick to what you know is right and work to expand their view?
• Would you say you are a good listener? Share at least one example of how you were a good listener this week.
• Where have you seen “light” today? Was it a single ray of light or blinding light?
• How have you allowed the Holy Spirit to direct your decisions today?
• How important is peace in relationship with faith? What is the relationship?
• Do you always seek advice or do you go alone? What is the value of advice?  How is it determined to be good or bad advice?
• Can you tell if someone is being led by the Holy Spirit? How?

 

 Closing Prayer

Leader:  Dwell in us

ALL:  so we might have understanding

Leader:  Dwell in us

 ALL:  so we might have wisdom

Leader:  Dwell in us

 ALL:  so we might have right judgment

Leader:  Dwell in us

ALL:  so we might have courage

Leader:  Dwell in us

ALL:  so we might have knowledge

Leader:  Dwell in us

ALL:  so we might have reverence

Leader:  Dwell in us

ALL:  so we might be in awe of YOU and all you have created!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Today, we hear the word the debate and we give it a negative value because we equate it to the public political debates where the candidates spend too much time boosting up their good traits and pointing out their opponents negative qualities.  So often when people enter into a debate, they are closed off to another idea or opinion when the very definition of a debate is a formal discussion of different opinions.  This week, reflect on the relationships in your life…is there anyone with whom you are in conflict because of differing opinions.  Are you closed off to their opinion?  Do you believe you are right, beyond measure?  Consider if it is pride which keeps you from being open to another opinion and if it is, how would a little bit of humility change the situation?