G.I.F.T. 11-21-21

Growing In Faith Together 
November 21, 2021

TODAY’S TEXTS
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14
Psalm 93
Revelation 1:4b-8
John 18:33-37

GATHERED BY GRACE
Jesus is interrogated by Pilate to see if this “King of the Jews” is a serious threat to the Roman empire’s domination of Judea. His answer is more unsettling and powerful than yes. Jesus dominion lies in God’s love on the cross.

Discuss in your household or small group:
* Re-read Daniel 7:9-10. What do you think Daniel wants to say about God through this language? How do you respond to this language? What kind of language do you normally use when talking about God?

* In v. 5a of Revelation, what three titles are given to Jesus? What do each of these mean to you?

* What do you think Pilate would have understood "King of the Jews" to mean?

* How would you answer the question, “What is truth?”


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 18:33-37
Monday Psalm 76:1-3
Tuesday Revelation 11:16-18
Wednesday John 16:25-33
Thursday Psalm 25:1-3
Friday 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
Saturday Luke 21:20-24
Sunday Luke 21:25-36

Next Sunday: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13; Luke 21:25-36

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Christ, teach me to live in your kingdom.

Throughout the Day: Guide my day from A to Z

Blessing to Share: May the love of God surround you. May the grace of God astound you. May the hope of God ground you.

At mealtime say responsively:
To the One who loves and freed us from our sins: Be glory and dominion forever and ever.

November Meal Prayer:
To God who gives us daily bread
A thankful song we raise,
And pray the one who sends us food
Will fill our hearts with praise. Amen.

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
In his encounter with Pilate, Jesus says “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice”. How do you listen to the voice of Jesus in the midst of your life? Find a small object – a stone, a safety pin, a button – and place it in your pocket or in a place where you can easily see it. Let it remind you to stop, breathe, and listen for Jesus.

Ritual:
This Thursday is Thanksgiving. Have you been keeping a journal of giving thanks? If so, read it this week. If not, stop and ponder for what do you give thanks?


SCATTERED TO SERVE
Pick up a list from our Angel Tree at Gloria Dei and bring back a gift for Toys are Tots or the Domestic Violence Intervention Program. Gifts are due back 12/8, unwrapped with tag attached.

If you don’t live around here, look for a Toys for Tots drive or other ingathering of gifts in your community.




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