G.I.F.T. 2-4-18

 Growing In Faith Together 

 February 4, 2018

 TODAY’S TEXTS 
 Isaiah 40:21-31 
 Psalm 147:1-11, 20c
 1 Cor. 9:16-23
 Mark 1:29-39

 GATHERED BY GRACE 
The promise of God’s faithfulness was the source of strength for the prophet, the psalmist, Jesus, and Paul. In Isaiah the God who sits above the earth and numbers the star is the same God that God strengthens the powerless. In Jesus’ healing work, we see the hand of the creator God, raising up the sick woman to health and service. 

Discuss in your household or small group: 
* How do you think you would have responded if you were Simon's mother-in-law, healed by this stranger?
* What might be the problem with coming to Jesus for healing and seeing him only as a healer? 
* Where is the “deserted place” that restores your spirit?
* Where and when do you pray? When you pray do you mostly talk or listen?

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 Mark 1:29-39
Monday Psalm 102:18-22
Tuesday 2 Kings 8:4-6
Wednesday Mark 3:7-12
Thursday Psalm 30:8-12
Friday Acts 19:11-15
Saturday Matthew 26:6-11
Sunday Mark 9:2-9
Next Sunday: 2 Kings 2:1-12; Psalm 50:1-6; 2 Corinthians 4:3-6; Mark 9:2-9

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: 
Strengthen me for your service.
Throughout the Day:  Be my strength this day, O God. 
Blessing to Share: Be strong in the love of God.

For mealtime say responsively: 
The Lord heals the brokenhearted: The Lord binds up their wounds.

 Mealtime Prayer: 
Christ our light, shine upon us.  
Refresh us by this meal 
to reflect your love to others. Amen
      
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION  

Devotional Practice: 
Jesus was often busy serving and helping others, but he also took time out for prayer, even if it meant getting up early in the morning and finding a deserted place.  Take a moment each day this week, and imagine a deserted place.  Once that image is locked in your mind, take a deep breath and offer a prayer. Pause and allow God to still your spirit.

Ritual for the Epiphany Season:
 Place a small bowl of water in the center of your meal table. Take a few moments each day – perhaps at a meal, or the beginning or ending of the day - to remember your baptism.  Dip a finger in the water and sign the mark of the cross on your forehead.  Say: Remember you are a baptized child of God and marked with the cross of Christ forever

SCATTERED TO SERVE 
During these cold spells, the Social Ministry committee has decided not to risk splitting seams on cans and glass items in the Little Free Pantry outside the front door. We are putting out dried products that reconstitute with hot water (cups of noodles, oatmeal, etc.) and granola/protein bars. We have also been putting out hats and gloves.  Donations are always welcome! 


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