Growing In Faith Together May 15, 2016
Today’s Texts:
Acts 2:1-21
Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
Romans 8:14-17
John 14:8-27
GATHERED BY GRACE
Pentecost is a day of promises fulfilled. The promised Spirit of God is poured out. The baptized have become "children of God" and "joint heirs with Christ." By the power of the Spirit we have seen the face of the Father in his only begotten Son and been saved by him. Bless the Lord, O my soul!
-Sundays and Seasons, 2010 Augsburg Fortress
Discuss in your household or small group:
* We are a people no longer easily impressed: in an age of technological wonders, what would it take then to astonish us?
* What are the "languages" that divide people in your everyday life?
* How does it make you feel to hear Jesus say to us — through this Scripture: Do not let your hearts be troubled, do not let them be afraid?
* How is the presence of the Holy Spirit evident in your life?
* In what ways does the Holy Spirit blow through Gloria Dei?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
These readings are related to the Sunday readings. M-W reflect upon the past Sunday’s readings and Th-Sa prepare for the next Sunday. Try to take time each day to read the assigned Bible passage.
Sunday John 14:8-27
Monday Psalm 48:12-14
Tuesday 1 Corinthians 2:12-16
Wednesday Luke 1:30-35
Thursday Psalm 8:1-5
Friday Ephesians 4:1-6
Saturday Proverbs 4:7-9
Sunday John 16:12-15
NEXT SUNDAY: Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31; Psalm 8; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-15
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week:
Thank you, Holy Spirit, that your wind blows new life into our lives.
Throughout the Day: Pour out your Spirit!
A Blessing to Share:
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
For mealtime say responsively:
Do not let your heart be troubled: Do not let them be afraid.
Pentecost Mealtime Prayer:
For bacon, eggs and buttered toast,
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen!
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
Start by taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. Imagine God’s breath blowing life into you; see yourself “aflame” with the presence of God. Reflect on how you experience the Spirit of God in your life. What images do you have for the Spirit? How does the breath of the Spirit make a difference in your life? End with prayer.
Ritual for Pentecost:
Pentecost is a time of red -- a color of fire and zeal and passion and heat. Let the Spirit lead your celebration this week. Maybe you’ll work red or flame-orange clothes/accessories into your wardrobe. Or maybe you’ll serve red and zingy foods – Italian pasta dishes with hot sausage & tomato sauce or Mexican food with red peppers, chilies, & tomatoes. If you eat that red supper together with family/friends, light a candle for each person. Let each say something brief about where the Spirit's flame burns in your life. Come Holy Spirit!
SCATTERED TO SERVE
What gifts has the Spirit given you to benefit the common good? Use them!