 |
| "Fagus sylvatica JPG2a" by Jean-Pol GRANDMONT ; via Wikimedia Commons |
We start the month of November by celebrating
All Saints' Day. As we gather, we will remember loved ones who have gone before
us upon whose shoulders we stand. Later in the month, on November 23rd, we will
review the entire church calendar year in a "lessons and hymns" style
service. Finally, November 30th marks the beginning of Advent.
In preparation for worship throughout the month,
take time to prepare by referring to this post each week. Reflect on the
readings and questions or comments. Then, let us gather on The Lord’s Day to
sing, pray, listen, and commune with our Holy and Loving God.
November 2, 2014
Read 1 John 3:1-3 and consider the following:
- How
is God's love made known to us in this text?
- Because
of this, what do we know?
- In
honor of All Saints' Day, recall those who have passed from this life to
the next, who impacted your life in a meaningful way. Then spend some time
in prayer, giving God thanks for their life and witness.
November 9, 2014
Read Matthew 25:1-13.
1. What strikes you as most important about this reading?
2. In the parable, what is the Kingdom of God like?
3. Why is it important to “keep awake”?
November 16, 2014
Read Matthew 25:14-30 using the spiritual
practice of lectio divina. Read the text once and sit quietly,
giving yourself time to absorb the parable. What is the context in which the
story is told? Read the passage a second time and prayerfully consider what
talents God has given you? Finally, read the text a third time. Then sit in
prayerful silence, listening for what word the Holy Spirit might have for you
today.
November 23, 2014
Christ the King Sunday marks the end of the
church year. During the week reflect on how Christ is King of your life. In
addition, spend some time in meditation. As you do, prayerfully consider how
you might share the story of Jesus’ life and ministry with someone who has
never heard about our Lord. Then join us for worship as we “tell the story”
through Scripture and music.
November 30, 2014
Read Mark 13:24-37 and consider the following:
- Herein
is a prophecy about the Son of Man. What is the prophecy?
- How
does this story tie into the Season of Advent?
- In
our spiritual lives, how can we “keep awake”?
One of the most important things we do as
Christians is to gather on The Lord’s Day to worship our Triune God. Come, let
us worship the Lord!
Shalom,
Glenda
