G.I.F.T. 8-22-2021

Growing In Faith Together
August 22, 2021

TODAY’S TEXTS
Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18
Psalm 34:15-22
Ephesians 6:10-20
John 6:56-69

GATHERED BY GRACE
The fork in the road…the moment of truth…. forced choice. Will we do things the way we've always done it, or will we take a leap of faith? "This teaching is difficult!" say those who have trekked with Jesus. Will we risk the spirit that gives life or will we pin all our hopes on "the flesh”? Jesus invites us into the unfathomable joys of the kingdom of God. What will we choose? - From SundaysandSeasons.com, ©2011 Augsburg Fortress.

Discuss in your household or small group:
* The Israelites gave reasons for choosing to serve the Lord. “For it was the Lord, our God who brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt . . . performed miracles . . . and protected us.” What is your reason for choosing to serve God?

* “Jesus asks, “Do you also want to leave?” What would your answer be right now? Is there any middle ground here?

* Jesus surprised his followers by revealing the grace and mercy of God in his own body, suffering, and death. Where should we be looking for God to show up today?

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 John 6:59-69
Monday Psalm 119:97-104
Tuesday Exodus 15:16-22
Wednesday John 15:16-17
Thursday Psalm 15
Friday James 1:12-16
Saturday Isaiah 29:13
Sunday Mark 7:1-8, 21-23

Next Sunday: Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9; Psalm 15; James 1:17-27; Mark 7:1-8, 21-23

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK

For the Week: Guide my choices.

Throughout the Day: Help me follow you.

Blessing to Share: Jesus is the bread of life.

For mealtime say responsively:

God is near to the broken hearted: God saves those whose spirits are crushed

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:
From Ephesians 6:18: Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. How would you define “pray in the Spirit”? Is that understanding a part of your prayer life? This week, begin your prayers with “Come Holy Spirit”. Does this make a difference in your prayers?

Summer Ritual:
Summer is almost over. But you can still 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
Lots of stress for the return to school. Be kind. Be patient. And please, wear a mask.


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