G.I.F.T. 3-13-2022

Growing In Faith Together
March 13, 2022

TODAY’S TEXTS
Gen 15:1-12, 17-18
Psalm 27
Philippians 3:17-4:1
Luke 13:31-35

GATHERED BY GRACE
We enter this Gospel story as that brood of chicks who are scattered, distracted, unable, somehow, to comprehend the very real danger which is threatening. Jesus' lament over Jerusalem is also over this world which all too often still refuses the gifts Jesus would so freely give. All it would take for us to survive the attack of the fox would be for us to stand still and stand nearby.

Discuss in your household or small group:
* In what ways do we still “kill and stone” prophets sent by God?

* What does Jesus’ metaphor about the hen teach us about God?

* How are we like Jerusalem, like that 'brood' which 'is not willing?'

* What are the 'foxes' which threaten still today and what difference would it make for us to stand near to Jesus as they approach?

* What is your response to knowing that God’s desire is to gather and embrace you? How can you work to “draw, embrace, include, and welcome God’s children” into God’s intentions for the world?

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.
Thursday Psalm 63:1-4
Saturday Isaiah 5:1-4

Next Sunday: Isaiah 55:1-9; Psalm 63:1-8; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; Luke 13:1-9

PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK
For the Week: Like a mother hen, shelter us with your mercy.

Throughout the Day: May my life reflect your love and presence.

Blessing to Share: We are gathered by grace and scattered for service.

For mealtime say responsively:
The Lord is my light and salvation: The Lord is my stronghold.

Lenten Mealtime Prayer:
Lord, we gather by your grace
Forgiven much, we seek your face
Fed with these gifts of yours so kind.
Lead us to love all whom we find.

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION
Devotional Practice:
This prayer for refuge was written by Boniface, missionary to Germanic peoples around 700 CE. Use this for your devotions this week. Eternal God, the refuge of all your children, in our weakness you are strength, in our darkness you are light, in our sorrow you are comfort and peace. May we always live in your presence, and serve you in our daily lives. Amen.

Lenten Ritual:
One faith practice in Lent is prayer which allows you to keep concerns and people in your heart and before God. Find some kind of box to be used as a prayer box. Make a list of prayer topics and write each one onto a separate index card. You could also include copies of some traditional prayers. Place the cards into the box. At the start of each week, pull out one or two cards and place these on your fridge or notice board as your prayer topic for the week.

SCATTERED TO SERVE
Home for Spring Break? What a great opportunity to do a service project!
In Iowa City, CommUnity often needs volunteers to help at the Food Bank. 
On-site training provided at beginning of shift. Click here to sign up.

Not in the area? Help out at wherever hungry people are fed 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