G.I.F.T. 8-29-2021

Growing In Faith Together
August 29, 2021

TODAY’S TEXTS
Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9
Psalm 15
James 1:17-27
Mark 7:1-8, 21-23

GATHERED BY GRACE
Jesus protests against human customs being given the weight of divine law, while the essence of God's law is ignored. True uncleanness comes not from external things, but from the intentions of the human heart. - From SundaysandSeasons.com, ©2011 Augsburg Fortress.

Discuss in your household or small group:
* Do you believe the Pharisees and scribes wanted to positively resolve this conflict? Why?

* How might this conversation be updated for a modern-day audience?

* Is it possible to hold on to traditions of God, but lose God in the process? How so?

* Do evil actions flow from within or do evil actions result from outside forces– social, economic, familial, environmental, and others?


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 7:1-8,14-15,21-23
Monday Psalm 106:1-5
Tuesday Psalm 106:13-23
Wednesday Psalm 106:47-48
Thursday Psalm 146
Friday Isaiah 35:4-7a
Saturday Isaiah 33:1-9
Sunday Mark 7:24-37
Next Sunday: Isaiah 35:4-7a; Psalm 146; James 2:1-17; Mark 7:24-37

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Transform my life from deep within.

Throughout the Day: Fill my heart with your Spirit.

Blessing to Share: Be God’s love for the world.

For mealtime say responsively:
We are the people of God: We are a people of love.

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: 
Re-read the passage from James. Make a list of three beliefs you hold as important for Christians to have and another list of three actions you do as a disciple. Reflect on how your understanding resembles (or not) James’ definition of religion and how your actions are similar (or not) to that which is described in James. End with a prayer.

Summer Ritual: 
Summer is almost over. Savor this last final week! 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
"It's Code Red" was a startling announcement from the UN Climate Report which was recently released. We need to act now.

Everyone can make a difference. Start with these ten impactful actions to help tackle the climate crisis. For more information see the UN’s Website for Climate Action.
  • Save energy at home
  • Walk, bike, or take public transport
  • Eat more plant-based foods
  • Fly less
  • Cut your food waste
  • Reduce, reuse, repair & recycle
  • Change your home's source of energy
  • Switch to an electric vehicle
  • Choose eco-friendly products
  • Speak up for bold action by all sectors of society.



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