Sunday, April 24th Readings

Opening Prayer

Lord Jesus

I know the wounds are real

when I look at people suffering.

I feel the pain of injustice

when I see malnourishment.

The scars aren’t always visible

but I know they are there.

Move me to be the hands, feet and heart

…that bring comfort

…that bring justice

…that bring peace

May the joy of the resurrection

bring healing to a hurting world!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 5:12-16

• Do you know someone who needs to be healed? How can you bring them comfort?
• How does God’s message heal you?

Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19

• When have you needed strength to overcome? Where did the strength come from?  Who gave it to you?
• Why are people afraid of the unknown? What makes it scary?

John 20:19-31

• Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit unto the disciples and they are moved into action, how does the Holy Spirit move you into action? How long has it been since you let the Holy Spirit move you?
• What makes you believe in the resurrection? Does Thomas’ testimony help you believe?

General Questions for Journaling

• Where do you see signs that God is alive today?
• Have you ever witnessed a miracle? Explain/Describe.
• How many times in a day, week, month, or year do you believe a miracle happens?
• Define love. Make a list of all the things you love.
• Is there only one type of love or many? How many types of love can you identify? What are the characteristics of each kind of love?
• Can good come from suffering? Can you share an example?
• Is suffering necessary? Why or why not?
• What causes you fear?
• Have you ever been paralyzed by fear? What was the circumstance?
• How is fear overcome? What do you do to conquer your fear? What advice do you give to others on how to overcome their own fears, ex. a child and the monster in the closet?
• Do you think people fear forgiveness? Why or why not?
• Where is peace found? How does someone find it?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, in my weakness

ALL:  YOU are strong!

Leader:  Lord, in my questioning

ALL:  YOU are the answer!

Leader:  Lord, in my sin

ALL:  YOU are forgiveness!

Leader:  Lord, in my struggle

ALL:  YOU are calm!

Leader:  Lord, in my confusion

ALL: YOU are clarity!

Leader:  Lord, in mt life

ALL:  YOU are the WAY!

Challenge for the Week:  Easter is the biggest Christian celebration and sign of our faith.  It is so important it lasts for 50 days which is longer than Advent (4 weeks before Christmas) and Lent (40 days before Easter).  How can you continue to live the Easter message for the next 50 days?  What message do you feel God is calling you to send?  Is there an injustice you can serve by volunteering your time?  Is there a person in need of support or company?  Where can you bring resurrection or new life?  Take this Easter season as seriously as you do your Lenten sacrifice and spread the Good News that Jesus is alive!!!

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