Taking the Sermon Home

April 28, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Revelation 21:1-6; John 13:31-35

For reflection:

In the book of Revelation, John has visions of a new heaven and a new earth; later, he hears a being that is seated on a throne saying, “See, I am making all things new.”  Then in the gospel of John, Jesus says, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.”  What do you feel the word “new” refers to in these contexts?  What, exactly, is “new?”

Think of a time when the power of God’s love created possibilities for you or for someone in your life.  How was that love expressed, both to you and through you?  How does God’s love change things?

Taking the Sermon Home

--Reflections for the week ahead

Scriptural References: Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30

For reflection:
What does it mean for your day-to-day life that “the Lord is your Shepherd?” What
changes as a result of this relationship? Be specific.
What are some of the “voices” that tend to distract you from focusing on the Lord’s
voice? How do these voices diminish your trust in God?
The beautiful Psalm 23 begins with the reassuring phrase, “The Lord is my shepherd; I
shall not be in want.” And yet, our lives tend to be overrun with “wants” and desires.
This week, spend time contemplating the ways in which your life is blessed, and be
grateful for the provisions that bring richness to each day.

Taking the Sermon Home

--Reflections for the week ahead

April 14, 2013

Scripture Reference: John 21:1-19

Today’s lesson describes yet another resurrection appearance of Jesus to his followers; this time, it’s both at the workplace, and around the breakfast table. 

In what ways do you experience God’s presence in the routine places of life? 

In the second half of the reading, Peter was both questioned (Do you love me?) and commissioned (Feed my sheep.)  How do you demonstrate your love for the Lord, and what does that love compel you to do?

Think of a time when you responded to God’s call, and ventured into a situation where you did not wish to go (verse 18).  What blessings did you receive, and how did you grow in faith?

Taking the Sermon Home

Reflections for the week ahead

Scripture Reference for April 7, 2013: John 20:19-31

The sermons this month follow the theme  Living in the Light of the Resurrection. 
Our first topic is Peace...with a purpose.

Each year on the Sunday after Easter, the appointed lectionary text is from John 20.  We read about fearful disciples who are surprised by the presence of the risen Lord who utters, Peace by with you.  The scene is followed by the account of Thomas, who seeks proof of Jesus’ resurrection.

For reflection:

How would you describe the “peace” that Jesus speaks of?  When have you experienced that peace?  Be specific.

What is the connection between peace and forgiveness?

Thomas finds himself questioning the presence of the risen Christ, as he was not with the group on that first night.  What are the doubts that arise in your spirit?  What blessings have you experienced from wrestling with doubt?

Taking the Sermon Home

Reflections for the Week Ahead

Palm Sunday, March 24, 2013
Scriptural Reference: Isaiah 40:4-9a; Luke 19: 28-40

We enter Holy Week with a parade on Palm Sunday and end it with joyful celebration the following Sunday.  If we simply move from parade to party, however, we miss some of the essence of Holy Week.  In particular, we miss the suffering of Jesus; his isolation, and his death by crucifixion.  Easter is robbed of its rich meaning if we do not pass by the cross.

For reflection:

Why do you think the crowds were jubilant as Jesus entered Jerusalem? Who wanted to stop Jesus’ ministry, and why?

Why is it important to understand Easter, in light of the cross?

Think of a time you felt a sense of impending doom, or an experience of isolating sorrow.  How can Jesus’ experiences in Holy Week help you through such hard times?

Taking the Sermon Home

--Reflections for the week ahead

Sunday, March 17 ends a five week series on “The Lessons of Lent.”  The first two words invited personal assessment, and the next two explored aspects of God’s nature.  The final word, “devotion,” can express both divine initiative and human response.

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 43:16-21, John 12:1-8

In what ways are you made aware of the tenacity (“devotion”) of God towards you—God’s love, patience, and grace that never let us go?

What acts of extravagant love can you make, in response to God’s extravagant love for you?

What changes do you need to make in your life to make worship more central to your weekly rhythm?

This week, start each day with a short prayer, that dedicates it to God—your thoughts, your actions, your work, your conversations. Devote yourself to being a reflection of God’s love!

The Gospel Prayer

I promised to post "The Gospel Prayer" that I quoted from J.D.Greear's book Gospel:

Father, there is nothing I can do that would make you love me more, and nothing I have done that would make you love me less.  Your presence with me and approval of me through the cross are all I need for daily joy.  Father, as you have so loved me, I will show your love to others today.  Amen.

Pastor Katie