G.I.F.T. 1-27-19

Growing In Faith Together  
January 27, 2019

TODAY’S TEXTS 
Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10 
Psalm 19 
1 Corinthians 2:12-31 
Luke 4:14-21

GATHERED BY GRACE 
The glory of the Lord is revealed in the reading of scripture. People pay attention. In the words of Isaiah, Jesus states and claims his identity, purpose, and mission: to bring the good news of God -release, recovery, setting free. Gather round. Listen up. Glimpse the glory of God.

Discuss in your household or small group: 
* When Jesus finishes reading the passage, he rolls up the scroll and sits down. What did those in attendance hear? What do you hear?
* When is the year of the Lord's favor? Is the year of the Lord upon you?
* Oppression takes many forms. What might you do to “let the oppressed go free,” for even one such person?
* How will you share the good news this week?

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 4:14-21
Monday Jeremiah 36:1-10
Tuesday Jeremiah 36:11-26
Wednesday Jeremiah 36:27-32
Thursday Psalm 71:1-6
Friday 2 Chronicles 34:1-7
Saturday 2 Chronicles 35:20-27
Sunday Luke 4:21-30
Next Sunday: Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-6; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Luke 4:21-30

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: 
Help me to bring evidence of your mission to those around me.

Throughout the Day:
 May I show your good news by what I do.

Blessing to Share: May God’s teaching revive your soul.

For mealtime say responsively: 
 The heavens declare the glory of God: The sky proclaims its maker’s handiwork.

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

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION  
Devotional Practice: 
Collect news stories this week – make notes from TV or the radio, place magazines or newspapers in your devotional area. Focus upon people in situations similar to those described in the Gospel passage – the poor, the captive, the blind, the oppressed. Take time each day to pray for the people you’ve identified. Talk with others about how you might bring God’s good news, release, or sight to someone.

Epiphany Seasonal Ritual: 
Place a 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 these words: “Remember and be thankful – you are a baptized child of God, marked with the cross of Christ forever.”

SCATTERED TO SERVE 
Since its opening in December this year, Shelter House’s Winter Emergency Shelter has provided a warm place to stay for many people experiencing homelessness. These individuals were out of the cold because people in the community helped. You can donate money directly to Shelter House at 429 Southgate Drive in Iowa City or online at www.shelterhouseiowa.org
Current critical needs include blankets, bus passes (for those seeking employment and because of the extreme cold), and coats & jackets.

Live out of the area? Check with your local shelter to find out their current needs.

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