Second Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father

Everything you give

You give out of love

Even the stars in the sky

You give for our benefit

Good and generous Father

Your gifts are abundant

Let me use the gifts I have

to give you glory!
Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 62:1-5

• Jesus is the King of Kings, how does this scripture describe your relationship with him?
• What does this scripture tell you about how God loves? Does it help you understand God’s love more or less?

 1 Corinthians 12:4-11

• Where do you see yourself in this scripture? How does the Spirit manifest within you?
• When have you seen these gifts work together for good in your community or in your life? Where they called upon and gathered for a specific purpose or did they come together organically?

 John 2:1-11

• Compare how the problem in Cana to a situation you are going through right now. How have you approached it?  Who have you asked to help you find a solution?
• How do the words, “Do whatever he tells you” change meaning when you hear them coming from Mary, speaking of Jesus?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• There is a time to speak up and a time to be silent. Share examples of each and explain.
• When you call on God, what name do you use? What name does God use to call on you?
• Would you say you have experienced love to its greatest extent? Share the experience.
• Do you feel favored by God? Why or why not?  What does it mean to you to be favored by God?
• How do you compare God’s love for you and the love of a parent?
• How do you compare God’s love for you and the love of a spouse?
• When have you seen the Spirit at work? Do you have to look hard to see it?  How often do you experience this?
• Are there gifts God has given to you which you are afraid to use?
• Do you believe there are still gifts of God within you which haven’t been manifest yet? Why or why not?
• How does the saying “save the best for last” apply to your life? Share examples of when this is true.

 

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

ALL:  turning water into wine

Leader:  Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

ALL:  healing the sick and lame

Leader:  Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

 ALL:  providing for every need

Leader: Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

 ALL:  making the ordinary, extraordinary

Leader:  Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

ALL:  pouring mercy over sinners

Leader:  Lord, you are the miracle in our lives…

 ALL:  giving eternal life through death

 

Challenge for the Week:   The Christmas season just ended and at Christmas there are many gifts exchanged, beautifully wrapped packages under the tree tormenting the children (and some adults too) with the mystery of what is inside.  Then of course there are the gifts brought to Jesus from the Wise Men, and now this week the scriptures speak of the gifts God bestows on us.  But what does gift giving really mean?  Why do you give gifts in the first place?  When you are given a gift, how does it make you feel?  What if it was unexpected?  What if you didn’t get a gift for the other person?  Are you able to accept the gift without feeling badly?  How about when you give another person a gift, do you expect them to reciprocate?  Imagine you there was a beautifully wrapped gift sitting on your night stand this morning, how long would it take you to open it?  Would you open it right away or would you allow it to sit there for a day or two contemplating what it might be?  Spend time this week reflecting on the action of gift giving and what is really at the core of it all.

Baptism of our Lord

 

Opening Prayer

Jesus

You meet us in the wilderness

You understand the rocky path

You hear our cries for help

You bring cleansing rain

to give us new perspective

So we can see more clearly

the pathway before us
Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 or 40:1-5, 9-11

• What does it mean to you for God to be pleased with you? What do you want God to be pleased about?
• Describe a real life desert experience. Where do they exist and what positive things can come from wandering through the desert?

 Acts 10:34-38 or Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7

• What does it mean to you that God has no partiality? How does that affect the way you accept others?  How does that affect the way you accept yourself?
• How do you give thanks for the extravagant gift of eternal life God has given to you?

 Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

• The scripture says the people waiting in anticipation for the Baptism; explain in your own words how baptism makes you feel. Must you have a personal connection to the one who is baptized to feel this anticipation?  Why or why not?
• John the Baptist brought many believers to follow Jesus…who do you give thanks to for the introduction?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where do you find value in your life? What validation do you seek?
• What is something you’ve seen that was hard for you to comprehend or figure out how it worked? Do you ever find faith hard to comprehend or figure out how it works?
• Why does turning on the light in the middle of the night when it is dark hurt? Describe the feelings and thoughts you have in those seconds it takes to adjust to the light.
• On the flip-side, how do you adjust to the darkness when you turn off the lights? How often is there complete darkness?
• How do you proclaim your dedication to God?
• Can you always see darkness coming? Is it possible to avoid darkness?
• What can you do to get yourself out of darkness? Is it possible to do it alone?  How can you help others out of darkness?
• Do you see/feel God’s presence guiding you as this new calendar year begins? Be specific.
• How do your “new year resolutions” pertain to your faith?
• What can you do with an ounce of God’s kindness? God’s generous love?  Make a plan.

 

Closing Prayer

Leader: Pour upon me Lord…

ALL:  the POWER of praising your name!

Leader:  Pour upon me Lord…

ALL:  the humility to be in AWE of creation!

Leader:  Pour upon me Lord…

 ALL:  the MERCY to bring comfort and healing!

Leader: Pour upon me Lord…

 ALL:  the strength of the SPIRIT to persevere!

Leader:  Pour upon me Lord…

ALL:  the GRACE to stumble but not fall!

Leader:  Pour upon me Lord…

ALL:  the fullness of your LOVE to share with others!

 

Challenge for the Week:   There is not one person who has ever wanted to be the last one picked to be on a team.  The anticipation of being the next person chosen can be agonizing, silently screaming “pick me, pick me” and then the feeling of defeat when your name is not the one called.  This is not a feeling God EVER wants us to experience when it comes to his choosing us because we were chosen by God BEFORE we ever existed.  This is one amazing thing to contemplate!

Epiphany

 

Opening Prayer

King of Kings!

Shine your light!

Let it radiate within!

And may it never dim!

I will follow, Lord!
Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60:1-6

• What do you see when you look for God? Do you see God’s radiance or something else?  Explain what you see.
• How do you praise God? What words do you use?
• With whom do you share God’s praise?

 Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6

• Make a list of the things God has given to you for your benefit which you have right now. How many things can you come up with?
• What was the last thing God revealed to you?

Matthew 2:1-12

• The magi traveled far and sacrificed much to follow the star to Jesus…what lengths will you go to be pay homage to Jesus?
• Are there people in your life, like Herod? What is your relationship with them?  Do they interfere with your relationship with God?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where do you see light in your life? Is it there because of God or another reason?
• If there is the absence of light, does that mean God is not there? Why or why not?
• Give an example of light in the world that draws people in.
• What does it mean to be a steward? How are you a steward?
• How is God’s grace given? Is it something you can control?  Can you deny God’s grace?  Why or why not?
• Do you enjoy mysteries? Do you like to seek to find the unknown?  How does this translate to your faith?  Scripture?  God?
• Do you like to share? Why or why not?
• What does scripture say about how God shares? What does it say about how you should share?  Do you agree?
• What gifts do you bring to Jesus right now at this point in your life? Don’t be concerned with value or how much because these are not things God is concerned about…just show up!
• Take time to look search for a star tonight and clear your mind to let God speak to you.
• Do you think God still uses stars (points of light) to draw people to Him? Share an example.

 

Closing Prayer

Leader: The radiance of God

ALL:  fills me with promise!

Leader:  The radiance of God

ALL:  gives me comfort!

Leader:  The radiance of God

 ALL:  finds me!

Leader: The radiance of God

 ALL:  grants me grace!

Leader:  The radiance of God

ALL:  provides me direction!

 

Challenge for the Week:   Each winter we experience the shortest day of the year, when it dark for nearly two-thirds of the day.  This is a direct result of the way the earth rotates around the sun and when it is darkest, the earth is the furthest from the sun.  Do you think it is a coincidence that this is similar to our lives when we are furthest away from the Son of God, Jesus, we can feel “dark”?  However, even when we feel far away from God, He is still there, just like the sun.  Spend time this week reflecting on where you are in your relationship with God right now; is it where you want to be?  Are you full of God’s light?  Do you hide in the darkness sometimes because it is more comfortable?  If it helps, draw a picture depicting where you want to be using the images of the earth and the sun and put it in your bible, or on your refrigerator, somewhere to remind you of your faith goals this year.

Fourth Sunday of Advent

 Opening Prayer

Prince of Peace and

Lord of Lords, be near to us.

Let your loving presence

fill our hearts and minds.

Be our strength

so we might do your will.

May we jump for joy

for you have come to be.

Embrace us in your love!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Micah 5:1-4a

• How has God called you forth? What did He call you out to do?  What gifts has God given to you so you can complete the task He’s called you to do?
• How is peace given? How do you show it?

 Hebrews 10:5-10

• How did Jesus to the will of God? What ONE thing can you change to help you be more like Jesus?
• How do you prepare your body for the reception of Jesus’ body and blood at communion?

 Luke 1:39-45

• What causes you to leap for joy?
• With whom do you share your joy? How does family fit into your celebration?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where is God in poverty? Where is God in wealth?
• How do you embrace what you have been given? Do you show gratitude even when it is not what you expected it to be?
• When have you been disappointed in what you have been given? Are your expectations to blame for this?
• What would you say is the overall mission of all Christians?
• What do you sacrifice for the sake of faith/religion/God?
• Reflect on a time when you opened your doors to welcome another. What was the circumstance?  How was hospitality shown?  Was it easy or difficult?
• When were you shown hospitality from another? What made you feel welcomed?
• Light shown the way to where Jesus could be found, how are you shining light for others to find their way to Jesus?
• Mary visits her cousin, Joseph travels with his family to their place of origin…how are you drawn to family or where you come from this holiday season?
• What can you do to be more connected to family (and friends) this year?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When we are weary…

ALL:  Come to us, Lord Jesus!

Leader:  When we are alone…

ALL:  Come to us, Lord Jesus!

Leader:  When we have no place to go…

 ALL:  Come to us, Lord Jesus!

Leader:  When darkness surrounds us…

 ALL:  Come to us, Lord Jesus!

Leader:  Be the star which guides our way…

ALL:  Come to us, Lord Jesus!

 

Challenge for the Week:   What is it about a newborn child which draws us in?  Some people are even hesitant to reach out to touch or hold a newborn for fear of what…afraid to hurt or harm or damage the precious child?  How does the “new life” change the lives of those around them?  Take time this week to consider what causes these feelings, this reaction.  Then relate it to your own feelings and reaction to the coming Jesus.

Third Sunday of Advent

 Opening Prayer

Sing with joy!

Sound the trumpets!

Awake!

Bring peace!

Shout out…the Savior is coming!

 

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….what do you think He says?

 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 communities prayers known?
• What keeps you from rejoicing in the Lord always?
• What keeps you from showing kindness to all?

 Luke 3:10-18

• Who do you turn to seeking direction in your life? 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?
• 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”? Is it an oxymoron like “jumbo shrimp”?
• 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?
• 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…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When judgement and accusations fill you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When weariness and fatigue consume you…

 ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When you have no more to give…

 ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  He is waiting for you with open arms…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

 

Challenge for the Week:   When the President of the United States enters a room; “Hail to the Chief” can be heard.  This week reflect on what song would play when God/Jesus/Holy Spirit enters the room.  What instruments would be playing, harps?  What does a “Choir of Angels” sound like?  Does it sound like a strong wind? Gentle breeze?  The sound of the waves crashing or lapping on the shore?  A trickling stream?  There are many possibilities but spend time exploring each of them until you find the right combination of sounds that expresses how you feel when you encounter God/Jesus/Holy Spirit.  Then, perhaps even more challenging, determine YOUR song.  What would you have play as you enter into a room?  What instruments would be used?  What is the tune?  Is it something familiar or original? Who would sing it?  And if there are words, what do they say?

Second Sunday of Advent

 

Opening Prayer

Jesus

When our days are filled with activity;

…may we remember not to get wrapped up in the busyness

When we face a long list of tasks;

…may we not become consumed in the hustle and bustle

Instead, help us to take time to spend a quiet moment with you

and watch for you in hopeful anticipation!

AMEN

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Baruch 5:1-9

• What do you put on yourself each day like a robe? What do you allow others to put on you?
• What does God robe you with? How is this different or similar to what you or how others put on you?  Do you feel comfortable with what God puts on you?  Why or why not?

Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11

• How can you “partner” with the Gospel? What does that look like?
• Where do you see God’s Glory? Where do you feel it?  Can you hear it or taste it or smell it?
• Can you name at least five good works God began in you? Can you list ten?

 Luke 3:1-6

• How is your life proclaiming the Gospel? How does the Word of God come from you?
• Describe three ways you relate to the words from the Prophet Isaiah. How does this scripture speak of your life’s journey?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Do you believe God can “make paths straight” and “move mountains” and “part the waters” and “level the valleys”? Why or why not?  Share an example of time when you were witness to this happening.
• Make a list of images of God’s power and draw a picture of one.
• Where do you see the hope of Christ in the world today? Where do you see hope in your community?  In your family?
• What is the purpose of having hope? What value do you put on it?
• How does the awareness of God’s presence affect your decisions? How often do you allow God to affect your decisions?
• When you make decisions; do you seek God’s perspective?
• How does God lead you to find joy? How often do you search for it?  Do you pray for joy?  Write a prayer for joy.
• How does God show affection? Do you have to ask for it or does God show it freely?  Describe the last time you felt loved by God.
• What is God a witness to in your life? How are you a witness to God?  In a 24 hour period, on average, how often are you a witness to God?
• Is there a time when you felt so overwhelmed you cried out to God and your faith lead you through?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Awaken the gifts;

 ALL:  the gifts we have before us!

Leader:  Enliven the joy;

 ALL:  the joy within each soul!

Leader:  Ignite the hope;

 ALL:  the hope around us!

Leader: Revive the peace;

 ALL:  the peace deep within!

Leader:  Kindle the love;

 ALL:  the love which brings us together!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Consider this…God planted in you all the gifts you will ever need to bring Him glory and share His love with others at the time of your conception.  How are you sharing these gifts?  Do you believe all of your gifts have been opened?  Perhaps there are a few gifts left under the tree (within you) unopened; full of new and unimaginable gifts.  As you go about your week, ponder the gifts you have been given which help you bring Glory to God and share His love…then go the extra step and dream about gifts you would need to possess in order to bring more attention to God.  What does that look like?  Are those gifts already opened in your life and you have discarded them or left them in the box?  Awaken to the possibilities…God always gives what you need and He gives the BEST gifts!

First Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Father

You create us to love,

only we can give your love!

You show us your love,

only we can spread your love!

Teach us, mold us, open us

until your love is spread throughout the world!

AMEN

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 33:14-16

• How do the promises of Christ live out/on in your life?
• What has God risen up in your life? How do you show gratitude for it?

1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2

• How can you “strengthen” your heart? What exercises are needed to build up your heart?
• What is the difference between full of mercy and full of grace?

 Luke 21:5-28, 34-36

• How do you see/imagine Jesus coming?
• How does Jesus “return” each day of your life?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How does God bring Justice to the world?
• Where does your security come from?
• When do you feel the safest?
• What can you rely on? What is consistent in your life?
• How has your life been blessed because of your faith in God?
• Do you believe in God because you fear Him? Why or why not?
• What do you need to do to be more holy? What does that mean?
• Is there a synonym for holy?
• What good has come from a recent struggle you experienced?
• Are there things which cause your stress? What is it about these things that make you anxious?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Find us seeking you in our daily schedule…

ALL:  We are ready!

Leader:  Find us seeking you in the highs and lows…

 ALL:  We are ready!

Leader:  Find us seeking you in the decisions we make…

 ALL:  We are ready!

Leader: Find us seeking you in the joys and sorrows…

 ALL:  We are ready!

Leader:  Find us seeking you every minute of the day…

 ALL:  We are ready!

 

Challenge for the Week:  This time of year our schedules begin to fill up, there are extra activities with the kids, gathering of family and friends and additional expectations as a Christian to keep Jesus as the reason for the season.  No wonder we get this warning about not getting drowsy in this week’s reading!  There is a long road ahead of us…some might call it the Christmas Season but I’m referring to the Advent Season.  When we take our discipleship seriously we should be able to see this holiday season not as long lines and wintry slush…instead we rest in the knowledge Jesus is on his way!

Christ the King

Opening Prayer

Christ the King,

Let us come to you in the morning

at the beginning of our day

so we can take you with us.

Let us come to you in the daytime

in the middle of the day

so we can stay connected to you.

Let us come to you in the evening

at the end of the day

so we can review our day together.

Let us know you are with us always!

Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 7:13-14

• What does this scripture tell you about the majesty of God? How is this description similar of different than how you define the majesty of God?
• How does God have dominion over you in your life? It is something that comes naturally or do you have to work to allow God to move, guide and direct you?

 Revelation 1:5-8

• Jesus is a faithful witness. How are you a faithful witness to Jesus?  Share an example of Jesus being a witness of faith and an example of how you are a faithful witness of faith.
• How do you feel that Jesus will come again for all…everyone? How does this understanding affect your words and actions in the world right now?  Is it reflected in the decisions you make and how you live your life?

 John 18:33b-37

• Pilate listens to the crowd and follows the majority. When have you listened to the majority and followed the crowd?
• In this scripture, what keeps those who love Jesus from standing up for him?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Describe the kingdom of God. Are these hopes of what you expect it to be or understanding from someplace else that this is what the kingdom of God really is?
• How is God’s kingdom similar or different than the kingdoms of the old centuries?
• How is God’s kingdom similar or different from those who govern the countries of the world today?
• When can you first remember thinking about Jesus?
• What was the last “project” you started and finished? How long did it take?  Were feelings of accomplishments associated with the completion?  Did you experience any setbacks?  Will you do it again?
• Are there areas in your life which you are proud of? Would Jesus also be proud of those things?
• How do you know when someone is lying to you? Is it subjective or objective?  What do you do about it?
• Could you describe Jesus’ voice? Do you think it is the same all the time?  Does Jesus’ voice sound different to different people?
• Does your home reflect your faith? Share an example.
• How do the things you post (or like) on social media fall in line with what you say you believe in?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  The injustice that happens each day…

ALL:  We are called to see.

Leader:  The cries of those in need and hurting…

ALL:  We are called to listen.

Leader:  The forgotten, the lost and the forsaken…

 ALL:  We are called to love.

Leader:  The stranger and the neighbor…

ALL:  We are called to help.

Leader:  Broken but mended by the power of faith…

ALL:  We are called children of God.

 

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus was consistent in faith throughout his time on earth.  Stories of Jesus as a child reflect how he was faithful to his studies and loved being among the elders of the church to learn.  Jesus modeled for all how to live faithfully, by accepting everyone and teaching the faith through works of service to others.  Even up to death, Jesus stood strong in faith and wasn’t going to back down or blasphemy in order to save himself.  In the Catholic Church, a new liturgical year begins which means, as believers there is yet another opportunity to reflect, repent and renew our faithfulness.  No matter how dedicated or committed to faith a person is, one can always benefit from a self-evaluation of faithfulness in order to stay focused on the journey to the Kingdom of God!

33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Lord

Why do I search in all the wrong places to find you?

When I look in the darkness,

You are not there.

When I look behind, above and below,

You are not there.

You are in all things at all times…yet I struggle to find you!

Thank you for not turning away;

Thank you for your grace, love and mercy;

Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!

Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 12: 1-3

• What qualities do you learn are important to have as a witness of Christ through this scripture? Do you possess any of them?  If so, which ones?  If not, what can you do to build up these qualities within?
• Who are “stars” who shine brightly? Are there people in your life who let God’s light shine and worked toward justice?  Can you name some people in history who have been examples of “stars”?
• How might your life be different if you followed the stars?

 Hebrews 10:11-14, 18

• Why is sacrifice needed? What sacrifice(s) do you make for your relationship with God?
• How does one become perfect in Christ? Is this even possible?  Why or why not?
• Consider, through the words of this scripture, the importance of the sacrifice of Mass. What is happening at Mass and do we understand the meaning as it is happening?

 Mark 13:24-32

• What is Jesus telling you about what you can take with you when you die? How does this change how you think of material things?  How does this change how you might spend the rest of your life?
• Does this scripture cause you fear or another emotion? What emotion do you think Jesus wants you to feel?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• In the past week, where did you see God’s light shine? Who did it shine through?
• Where do you turn for comfort when you are in distress? Is God there?
• Would you consider yourself a leader or a follower? Why?
• What was the last thing you took the lead on? Who was it for?  What was the task?  How did it turn out?
• What kind of leader are you or would you be? Why?
• How can you make your sins go away? What do you do to ensure you don’t ever sin again?
• What does God do or can God do to help you defeat sin?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Though I am a sinner;

 ALL:  You made one sacrifice for my sins.

Leader:  Though I are ignorant;

ALL:  You continue to teach me your ways.

Leader:  Though I often lose direction;

 ALL:  You continue to guide me on the right path.

Leader:  Though I waste much;

ALL:  You continue to give me what we need.

Leader:  Though I continue to fall short;

ALL:  You continue to build me up.

 ALL:  Thank you Lord, for your constant love!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Attend Mass.  It really doesn’t matter if you do it on the weekend or during the week, the outcome is the same…you have witnessed a living sacrifice.  What does this even mean?  Well, when you go to Mass, it shouldn’t be just out of obligation so you can get it checked off of your “to do list” or because you get to see friends or enjoy coffee and donuts afterwards.  Nor should you attend Mass and not be an active participant.  Mass is the “shortened” version of what is actually called the “Holy Sacrifice of the Mass” where Catholics come together to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for all.  This act of love is monumental and deserves a response from each person who gathers to remember it.  Jesus died for everyone and in return believers should sacrifice something each time they take the Eucharist.  Those who receive the Eucharist, receives a piece of Jesus, this is how you become more like Him!  So, go…make a sacrifice this week and leave behind the grumpy, negative, judgmental part of you and let the joyful, positive and accepting light of Jesus shine through!

32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Father in heaven,

Each day I work hard to please you

but this is not what you ask of me.

You ask for me to love you with all my heart.

You ask me to find you in others.

and want me to share your love.

Love you and share your love…this is what you ask!

Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

1 Kings 17:10-16

• What is God saying to you in this scripture about being ready to accept Him into your life?
• Knowing what you know about God’s unconditional love, especially from this scripture, do you believe God sees you as inadequate?

 Hebrews 9:24-28

• What is the core message you hear in this scripture? Each person will hear something differently according to their experience…share!
• How can the sacrifice of people/the sacrifices you make for those you love compare to the sacrifice of Jesus? (God is NOT keeping score!  God does not think in small human terms so it really isn’t a comparison of physical act, rather the spiritual act)

 Mark 12:38-44 or 12:41-44

• When you consider God is watching what you do like in this scripture, how does it make you feel? What is Jesus’ intention of sharing this story?
• How are you like the widow? In what ways do you want to be more like the widow?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Share a time when you recently did something for another person. Did they ask you to do it or did you do it because you saw a need.
• What is the difference between doing something you are asked to do and doing something because you saw a need?
• When was the last time someone showed you a kindness without expectation? What was it?  How did it feel?
• When you think of what God brings to your relationship and what you bring, do you think God is measuring like you do? Why or why not?
• What do you think God is saying about what you bring to your relationship?
• Is generosity about how much you give or how you give? What is the difference?
• How do you view sin? What is your definition?
• How does God redeem sin? What is your understanding of what happens to the sin?
• What are the things God most loves about you?
• How do you define a “leap of faith”, make a list of examples.

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I feel I am not good enough…

 ALL:  Lord, YOU complete me!

Leader:  When I believe I can’t contribute…

ALL:  Lord, YOU complete me!

Leader:  When I think I don’t fit in…

 ALL:  Lord, YOU complete me!

Leader:  When I reach a crossroads…

ALL:  Lord, YOU complete me!

Leader:  When I don’t feel complete…

ALL:  Lord, YOU complete me!

 

Challenge for the Week:  The scriptures this week have a very specific theme.  How do you interpret what is being taught?  What God asks?  What Jesus teaches?  Does it all make sense?  Does it make you feel good or bad?  Are you angry or confused?  Can these scriptures be misunderstood or twisted to mean something negative?  Spend time this week thinking about what you know about God, his nature, how he loves, and the patience Jesus showed when he was teaching and healing those who came to him for help…then read the scriptures again with new eyes seeking a different insight about what God really wants for you!  It is worth the time for self-reflection.