March 17, 2019
TODAY’S TEXTS
GATHERED BY GRACE
We
enter this Gospel story as that brood of chicks who are scattered, distracted, unable,
somehow, to comprehend the very real danger which is threatening. Jesus' lament over Jerusalem is also over
this world which all too often still refuses the gifts Jesus would so freely
give. All it would take for us to survive the attack of the fox would be for us
to stand still and stand nearby.
Discuss in your
household or small group:
- In what ways do we still “kill and stone” prophets sent by God?
- What does Jesus’ metaphor about the hen teach us about God?
- How are we like Jerusalem, like that 'brood' which 'is not willing?'
- What are the 'foxes' which threaten still today and what difference would it make for us to stand near to Jesus as they approach?
- What is your response to knowing that God’s desire is to gather and embrace you? How can you work to “draw, embrace, include, and welcome God’s children” into God’s intentions for the world?
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 13:31-35
Monday Psalm 105:1-4
Tuesday 1 Corinthians 10:1-5
Wednesday 2 Chronicles 10:5-9
Thursday
Psalm 63:1-4
Friday
Revelation 3:1-5
Saturday Isaiah 5:1-4
Sunday
Luke 13:1-9
For the Week: Like a mother hen, shelter us with your mercy.
Throughout the Day: May my life reflect your love and
presence.
Blessing to Share: We
are gathered by grace and scattered for service.
For mealtime say responsively:
The Lord is my
light and salvation: The Lord is my
stronghold.
Lenten
Mealtime Prayer:
Lord, we gather by your grace
Forgiven much, we seek your face
Fed with these gifts of yours so
kind.
Lead us to love all whom we find.
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice: This prayer for refuge was written by Boniface,
missionary to Germanic peoples around 700 CE. Use this for your devotions this
week. Eternal God, the
refuge of all your children, in our weakness you are strength, in our darkness
you are light, in our sorrow you are comfort and peace. May we always live in
your presence, and serve you in our daily lives.
Lenten Ritual: One faith practice in Lent is prayer which allows you to keep
concerns and people in your heart and before God. Find some kind of box to be
used as a prayer box. Make a list of
prayer topics and write each one onto a separate index card. You could also include
copies of some traditional prayers. Place the cards into the box. At the start
of each week, pull out one or two cards and place these on your fridge or
notice board as your prayer topic for the week.
SCATTERED TO SERVE
Home for Spring Break? What a great opportunity to add a
service project!
Gloria Dei serves Free Lunch this Friday at 1105 Gilbert
Court, Iowa City. Stop by between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm to help prepare, serve,
or clean-up.