Sunday, December 12th Readings

Third Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

O my people,

Sing with joy!

Sound the trumpets!

Awake!

Bring peace!

Shout out;

the Savior is coming!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Zephaniah 3:14-18a

What keeps you from jumping for joy as you hear this scripture?
Draw a picture of what you see happening in this scripture. Who is there? What colors would you use to paint the scene?
The scripture says, God will rejoice over you. How do you think He rejoices?

Philippians 4: 4-7

How do you make your petitions known to God? Do you only focus on what you want/need? How do you make the community prayers known?
What keeps you from rejoicing the Lord always? Identify three specific things.
What keeps you from showing kindness to all? Is it in your control to change this?

Luke 3:10-18

Who do you turn to seeking direction? Who do you ask, “what should I do”?
How big is your circle of influence (the people you ask for help determining God’s will in your life), who is included, are there people who should be included who are not, are there people whom you should reconsider?
Who are those who turn to you for guidance in answering the big questions about life, love and faith?

General Questions for Journaling

How do you celebrate God? Jesus? Holy Spirit? Do you celebrate them as one or have special ways of honoring each?
When was the last time you shared the “Good News” with another person in everyday conversation?
On a scale from 1-10 how comfortable are you sharing your faith with others?
How does God show you He is present?
Are there places where you feel more at ease to share the “Good News” of Jesus?
How does the church’s celebration of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter help open the door for you to share your faith?
How do you “cry out with joy or gladness”?
Do you think, “cry out with gladness” is an oxymoron like “jumbo shrimp”? Explain.
How much of your heart and mind would you say God consumes? Draw a picture to illustrate what consumes your heart and mind; be honest.
Are there places you will not go because you fear God is not there? Is there something you can do to overcome this fear?
How do you let go of anxiety and stress?
How often do you find yourself in a state of worry or overwhelmed with stress? Do you think it is too much, just right or not enough?
Is generosity taught? How does a person learn to be generous?
Where is God calling you to show generosity today?

Closing Prayer

Leader: When anxiety and fear overtake you…