G.I.F.T. 10-2-16

 Growing In Faith Together
 October 2, 2016


 Today’s Texts:
 Habakkuk 1:1-4; 
2:1-4 
 Psalm 37:1-9
 2 Timothy 1:1-14 
 Luke 17:5-10

 GATHERED BY GRACE 
Faith is the theme for today's readings, but not just any faith. It is a life-transforming faith, one that demonstrates the very presence of God moving and active in God's people. Jesus' disciples ask their teacher to "Increase our faith". They knew that faith was something needed, and Jesus explains that even a small amount of faith can do great wonders. What does it mean to have this sort of faith?

Discuss in your household or small group:
* How do you measure your faith? Do you sometimes feel like you have a little or a lot? What if faith is not about "how much" but openness to what God can do in our lives and in creation?
* What do you think relates this Gospel to the First Lesson?
* Timothy learned about the faith from his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois. What was the first story or song you learned about Jesus? Who taught it to you?

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  Luke 17: 5-10
Monday  Psalm 3:5-8
Tuesday  1 John 5:1-5, 13-21
Wednesday  Mark 11:12-14, 20-24
Thursday  Psalm 111:1-3
Friday  Numbers 5:1-4
Saturday  Luke 5:12-16
Sunday  Luke 17:11-19

NEXT SUNDAY: 2 Kings 5:1-3,7-15c; Psalm 111;2 Timothy 2:8-15; Luke 17:11-19

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week:  Holy Spirit, kindle your love in me.

Throughout the Day: Increase my faith!  

A Blessing to Share:  May you know the treasure you are to God!

For mealtime say responsively: Commit your way to the Lord:  Put your trust in God.

Summer Mealtime Prayer:   
God, we thank you for the night
and for the glorious morning light
for rest and food and loving care
and all that makes the world so fair.


FOR FURTHER REFLECTION  

Devotional Practice: 
During your devotional time, think of your 5 senses. What does faith look like? Can you think of images that conjure up faith? What does faith smell like? A home-cooked meal? Candles in church? What does faith sound like? Hymns sung by an assembly? A child’s laughter? What does faith taste like? Bread and wine? Favorite potluck dishes?  Finally, what does faith feel like? The weight of a Bible? A handshake from another? Write down your reflections and end with a word of thanks to God.

Autumn Ritual: 
Our task during this part of the church year is to consider discipleship. Jesus’ teachings get a bit more challenging. For these months, add a small cross near the place you do devotions to remind you of Jesus’ call to take up your cross and follow.  

SCATTERED FOR SERVICE  
Soon the winter winds will blow! Donate new or gently used winter clothes to the Consultation of Religious Communities Annual Winter Clothing Drive
. Coats, hats, mittens, warm socks, sweats, boots, winter blankets, sweaters and “hoodies” for children and teens. Bring them to church by October 13.

How to Find Us





Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Iowa City

Gathered by grace. Scattered for service.

123 E Market Street
Iowa City, IA 52245