March 13th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Luke Poses Questions to Ponder: Why Am I Always Rushing?
At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
[Reading above - Luke 13:31-35]
In this passage Jesus is warned of the threat posed by Herod Antipas. Antipas has learned from his father, Herod the Great, that the best way to deal with anyone who poses a threat to power is to eliminate them. This is no idle threat, he has recently executed Jesus’ mentor, John the Baptist. Jesus does not respond to this threat with panic. Jesus is clear about his identity and mission; he keeps his focus where it belongs.
Questions for Reflection:
What are the threats to well-being you face?
Jesus met threat with a commitment to his identity and mission. Is your sense of identity and mission clear enough and strong enough to keep you focused on what really matters? How do you state your identity and mission in brief?
What is the Jerusalem in your life? What does it mean to you to journey there?
A Practice to Focus on Discipleship
We are using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina. This is a prayerful way of reading a scripture passage with mindfulness of Christ’s Living Spirit in the words. Try this practice with today’s scripture lesson. At the beginning of the week please slowly read through these verses a few times in an attitude of prayer. Pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out. Then apply this word or phrase to the challenges and opportunities of each day in the week. At the end of the week look back and give thanks for the way Christ has helped you live as a more faithful disciple. If you need help or guidance, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com.
Sermon title and text for March 20th:
Luke 15:17-24 | Why Am I So Dissatisfied?