Growing In Faith Together
February 12, 2017
TODAY’S TEXTS
Deuteronomy 30:15- 20
Psalm 119:1-8
1 Corinthians 3:1-9
Matthew 5:21-37
GATHERED BY GRACE
Jesus helps us take another look at some commandments to discover what is at the heart of the law – love of God and love of neighbor. God’s people are urged to choose to act in ways that are life-giving.
Discuss in your household or small group:
* Knowing that Jesus is talking primarily to his followers and disciples, what do his teachings here say about our relationship with God? Are they something we have to do in order to have a relationship with God, or a picture of the life God would have us to know and enjoy?
* Some Christians understand the Sermon on the Mount as a literal blueprint for how to live. Others view it as impossible thus, driving us to Christ’s redemption. Some take an in-between position. Where do you stand?
* What are some ways to live which restore relationships and strengthen community?
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.
Next Sunday: Leviticus 19:1-2,9-18; Ps 119:33-40; 1 Cor 3:10-11, 16-23; Matthew 5:38-48
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Teach me to choose life.
Throughout the Day Help me do your will, O God.
A Blessing to Share: May the blessing of God be with you.
For mealtime say responsively: Happy are those who follow your way: those who seek you will all their hearts.
Epiphany Mealtime Prayer:
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice
Think of Valentine’s Day in light of today’s lessons. Someone once said “justice is what love looks like in public”. The ways in which we treat each other are reflections of how we actively show our love for God. Ask God to show you ways to reflect God’s love this week.
Ritual for the Epiphany Season
During this season, we focus on growing in our discipleship as we “make Christ manifest” to the world. Imagine the ways you show love to those at home, work or school. Draw pictures on small pieces of papers which illustrate ways you show God’s love. Attach the squares to a length of decorative ribbon and hang it near the door you use to come and go. When you see it, pray: May I shine with God’s love for all I meet. Amen
SCATTERED TO SERVE
During these tumultuous times in the world, Christians are called, as always, to offer prayers and action for justice and peace, to speak for those whose voices are muted, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Pray for peace for all nations who are facing unrest and protest.
February 12, 2017
TODAY’S TEXTS
Deuteronomy 30:15- 20
Psalm 119:1-8
1 Corinthians 3:1-9
Matthew 5:21-37
GATHERED BY GRACE
Jesus helps us take another look at some commandments to discover what is at the heart of the law – love of God and love of neighbor. God’s people are urged to choose to act in ways that are life-giving.
Discuss in your household or small group:
* Knowing that Jesus is talking primarily to his followers and disciples, what do his teachings here say about our relationship with God? Are they something we have to do in order to have a relationship with God, or a picture of the life God would have us to know and enjoy?
* Some Christians understand the Sermon on the Mount as a literal blueprint for how to live. Others view it as impossible thus, driving us to Christ’s redemption. Some take an in-between position. Where do you stand?
* What are some ways to live which restore relationships and strengthen community?
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 Matthew 5:21-37
Monday Psalm 119:12-16
Tuesday James 2:8-13
Wednesday Proverbs 2:1-5
Thursday Psalm 119:33-40
Friday Galatians 5:2-6
Saturday Matthew 7:7-12
Sunday Matthew 5:38-48
Next Sunday: Leviticus 19:1-2,9-18; Ps 119:33-40; 1 Cor 3:10-11, 16-23; Matthew 5:38-48
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Teach me to choose life.
Throughout the Day Help me do your will, O God.
A Blessing to Share: May the blessing of God be with you.
For mealtime say responsively: Happy are those who follow your way: those who seek you will all their hearts.
Epiphany Mealtime Prayer:
We thank you Lord, for this our meal,
For grace and love and gifts that heal.
Give us willing hearts to share
With others when they need our care. Amen
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice
Think of Valentine’s Day in light of today’s lessons. Someone once said “justice is what love looks like in public”. The ways in which we treat each other are reflections of how we actively show our love for God. Ask God to show you ways to reflect God’s love this week.
Ritual for the Epiphany Season
During this season, we focus on growing in our discipleship as we “make Christ manifest” to the world. Imagine the ways you show love to those at home, work or school. Draw pictures on small pieces of papers which illustrate ways you show God’s love. Attach the squares to a length of decorative ribbon and hang it near the door you use to come and go. When you see it, pray: May I shine with God’s love for all I meet. Amen
SCATTERED TO SERVE
During these tumultuous times in the world, Christians are called, as always, to offer prayers and action for justice and peace, to speak for those whose voices are muted, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Pray for peace for all nations who are facing unrest and protest.