Together
June 10, 2018
TODAY’S TEXTS
Genesis 3:8-15
Psalm 130
2 Cor 4:13-5:1
Mark 3:20-35
GATHERED BY GRACE
This Sunday's readings deal with the power of evil, which is pictured as a snake in paradise and as a demon who opposes the will of God. Mark also gives us a startling picture of Jesus' relationship with his natural family.
Discuss in your household or small group:
* Why do you think the story of the serpent and the tree appears in the beginning of the Bible? What is this story really about?
* Do you like to make choices, or would you prefer others make them for you? Why?
* Can “the devil” or anybody else really make you do anything?
* Just how crazy are the demands of the kingdom of God for those who would claim to follow Christ today? Do you feel that you are a brother or sister of our Lord Jesus?
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 3:20-35
Monday Psalm 40:1-8
Tuesday Psalm 74
Wednesday Luke 11:14-28
Thursday Psalm 92:1-4
Friday Hebrews 11:4-7
Saturday Mark 4:1-25
Sunday Mark 4:26-34
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: You have given us grace upon grace, O God.
Throughout the Day: I wait for you, Lord.
Blessing to Share: May you know the presence of God.
For mealtime say responsively:
With God there is steadfast love: With the Lord is plenteous redemption.
Mealtime Prayer:
All here gathered, food from the land,
all is gift from your gracious hand.
feed us today; feed all who hunger;
teach us to feed one another.
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
Summer is a time of growth and refreshment. Reflect on personal spiritual renewal this week. Where does your spiritual life need invigorating? What new practice might you adopt or try out?
Summer Ritual:
Everything in our universe is incredible – from the tiny blue flowers blooming in the yard to the puffy white clouds in the sky. What do you love to see in nature? What smell delights you? What sounds do you stop to listen for? What tastes satisfy? This summer start each morning with a simple prayer: Lord, show me something incredible. Amen. Then watch to see what the treasure is. When you find it, in your mind add a tag “Made by God”.
SCATTERED TO SERVE
Take a garbage bag and go out to your favorite park or outdoor area. Help keep our beautiful world clean!