G.I.F.T. 9-1-19

Growing In Faith Together
September 1, 2019

TODAY’S TEXTS  


GATHERED BY GRACE 
Invited and inviting—that is the nature of the church. By God’s grace in holy baptism we have a place at the banquet table of the Lord. When, by the power of that same Spirit, humility and mutual love continue among us, the church can be more inviting still.
Discuss in your household or small group: 
* What does it mean to be proud?  What does it mean to be humble?
* What are some advantages of humility? What are some dangers?
* Read v.1-5 in the Hebrews reading again. It lists 5 ethical concerns for this faith community. Why do you think hospitality ranks so high on the list?
* What does hospitality mean to you? To Gloria Dei? 
* Who is missing from the table of our church? 

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 14:1,7-14
Monday Psalm 119:65-68
Tuesday Isaiah 2:12-17
Wednesday Isaiah 57:14-16
Thursday Psalm 1:1-3
Friday Deuteronomy 7:12-13
Saturday Deuteronomy 30:19-20
Sunday Luke 14:25-33


NEXT SUNDAY: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 1; Philemon 1-21; Luke 14:25-33


PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Remove my pride of position and pursuit of power that mocks humility, O Lord

Throughout the Day: May I be content.

A Blessing to Share: Let mutual love continue, show unbounded hospitality to strangers, know you are entertaining angels unaware.


For mealtime say responsively: God will never leave us: God will never abandon us.


Summer Mealtime Prayer:   
Lord, bless this food which we now take.  
We give you thanks for all you make.  


FOR FURTHER REFLECTION  
Devotional Practice: 
The letter to the Hebrews wraps up with suggestions for the conduct of a holy life, all of which are shaped by God's love toward us in Jesus Christ. Reflect on Hebrews 13:16 “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have.”  In your devotion times this week pray for those in your life who are “good deed doers” and generous share-ers. Talk with family and friends about what you see in them that you would like to imitate. Give thanks to God for their example in your life.

Summer Ritual:
Summer is over! Take some quiet time alone. Become aware of what is around you (mindfulness is a popular word for this). Pay attention. Delight in creation.  Run water over your hand. Enjoy the coolness. Appreciate the joy of laughter and friends, the freedom of a bird in flight, or the precious smile of a child. Give thanks to God the Creator of all things for this world and all that is in it.

SCATTERED TO SERVE

When eating at the house of an important Pharisee, Jesus said: “When you put on a luncheon or a banquet don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward.”  Make plans to invite someone you don’t know well to share a meal. Think about how you can make them feel as welcome as possible.

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