Growing In Faith Together
March 3, 2019
TODAY’S TEXTS
Exodus 34:29-35
Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2
Luke 9:28-36
GATHERED BY GRACE
The Season of Epiphany that began with a hint of the Trinity closes with yet another glimpse. Jesus takes three of his disciples with him to the mountain to pray. The "Voice" again! This time not a dove descending, but a cloud. And even Jesus' clothes become dazzling white. What must have been going on in the minds of the three disciples, as they kept silent about what they had seen?
Discuss in your household or small group:
* Why do you think Jesus took Peter, James and John with him to pray? How is praying with a group different than praying alone? How would you have reacted if you had been on the mountain praying with Jesus?
* What language would you use to describe the effect of a close encounter with God?
* Prayer is clearly a part of Jesus’ relationship with God. How is prayer a part of your relationship with God? What is one question you have about prayer?
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: Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16; Romans 10:8b-13; Luke 4:1-13
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: May the light of your transforming love shine through all I do.
Throughout the Day: Help me listen to you.
Blessing to Share: Go and shine with the love of God.
For mealtime say responsively:
We are mirrors, reflecting the glory of the Lord: Thanks be to God!
Mealtime Prayer:
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
Jesus withdrew in order to pray, as when he went up the mountain in our Gospel. Today, he invites three of his friends to go with him. Time in prayer occasionally yields more than we bargain for. For Peter, James, and John this time of prayer is frightening, awe-inspiring, humbling. Reflect on your own life of faith. What prayers have been answered in unexpected ways? When have you seen Christ in a place you did not want to find Christ? When has Christ led you to a place you did not want to be?
Ritual: Lent begins this week on Ash Wednesday. Join us for worship at 12:10 pm or 7:00 pm. Imposition of ashes will be available at both services.
SCATTERED TO SERVE
This stretch of winter weather is getting to be a bit arduous for all of us. Because of this, stress levels are raised a bit. Research has actually shown that receiving and giving kindness reduces stress!
So, try some kindness this week.
Send an encouraging email to a friend. Roll your neighbor’s trash can back after pickup. Resolve to have a judgement free day - give someone the benefit of the doubt. Open doors for people. Smile. Say thank you.
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| Hanging in my office |
TODAY’S TEXTS
Exodus 34:29-35
Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2
Luke 9:28-36
GATHERED BY GRACE
The Season of Epiphany that began with a hint of the Trinity closes with yet another glimpse. Jesus takes three of his disciples with him to the mountain to pray. The "Voice" again! This time not a dove descending, but a cloud. And even Jesus' clothes become dazzling white. What must have been going on in the minds of the three disciples, as they kept silent about what they had seen?
Discuss in your household or small group:
* Why do you think Jesus took Peter, James and John with him to pray? How is praying with a group different than praying alone? How would you have reacted if you had been on the mountain praying with Jesus?
* What language would you use to describe the effect of a close encounter with God?
* Prayer is clearly a part of Jesus’ relationship with God. How is prayer a part of your relationship with God? What is one question you have about prayer?
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 6:27-38
Monday Psalm 99:5-9
Tuesday Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Ash Wednesday Psalm 51: 1-17
Thursday 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Friday Psalm 91:1-2,9-16
Saturday Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Sunday Luke 4: 1-13
Next Sunday: Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16; Romans 10:8b-13; Luke 4:1-13
PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: May the light of your transforming love shine through all I do.
Throughout the Day: Help me listen to you.
Blessing to Share: Go and shine with the love of God.
For mealtime say responsively:
We are mirrors, reflecting the glory of the Lord: Thanks be to God!
Mealtime Prayer:
Lord God, we thank you for these gifts.
Keep us mindful of those who go without.
Help us to share with them.
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
Jesus withdrew in order to pray, as when he went up the mountain in our Gospel. Today, he invites three of his friends to go with him. Time in prayer occasionally yields more than we bargain for. For Peter, James, and John this time of prayer is frightening, awe-inspiring, humbling. Reflect on your own life of faith. What prayers have been answered in unexpected ways? When have you seen Christ in a place you did not want to find Christ? When has Christ led you to a place you did not want to be?
Ritual: Lent begins this week on Ash Wednesday. Join us for worship at 12:10 pm or 7:00 pm. Imposition of ashes will be available at both services.
SCATTERED TO SERVE
This stretch of winter weather is getting to be a bit arduous for all of us. Because of this, stress levels are raised a bit. Research has actually shown that receiving and giving kindness reduces stress!
Send an encouraging email to a friend. Roll your neighbor’s trash can back after pickup. Resolve to have a judgement free day - give someone the benefit of the doubt. Open doors for people. Smile. Say thank you.