Weekly Reflections for the week of March 3, 2013:
Last week we saw how Jesus would prime the heart of those around him with the miracles he performed. This week we will take a look t the experiences of Jesus. Before you get going this week I would encourage you to continue the conversation online via twitter (@faithpointum) or facebook (facebook.com/faithpointum)
Monday: Christ Must Die: Matthew 16:13-28 & Old Testament Promise that his ministry would include healings Isaiah 35:5-6a
- We talked this week about Jesus as the suffering servant. What a powerful word to describe God, a servant. Wow! what one word would you use to describe yourself? What word would others use to describe you?
- When you hear the Jesus’ words, “deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me,” what does that look like to you?
- What would it take for you to more fully embrace this call?
Tuesday: Jesus Faces Criticism: Mark 3:20-35 & Old Testament Promise that his ministry would deliver spiritual captives Isaiah 61:1-2
- In this passage we see a literary uniqueness to the Gospel of Mark where he begins one story, stops, tells another, and finally finishes the first. This is sometimes called the “Marken Sandwich.” Here we see others criticizing Jesus. When have you done something that had made your friends and family think you were a bit “out of your mind?”
- Two weeks ago in worship we talked about C.S. Lewis’ “trilemma” or the through that Jesus could either be a liar, lunatic or Lord. Why do you think Jesus’ family would have leaned toward the lunatic possibility at times?
Wednesday: John the Baptist Beheaded Mark 6:14-29 & Old Testament Promise that he would be rejected by men Isaiah 53:3
- John the Baptist was a character in so many ways, and he was also bold. He was willing to speak for God to the point of losing his head. Who do you know that is willing to always speak out for what they view as morally wrong?
- We hear a number of voices in our lives. Some are from the center of town, others from positions of power and still others are from the fringes or wilderness like John. In what ways do the messages of the music, movies, TV and books you read impact your perspective of what God is doing in the world?
- How far would you be willing to go to share the message God has put on your heart?
Challenge: Invite someone to Easter worship, the Eggstravaganza
or your small group TODAY, don’t wait today is the day!
Thursday: The Transfiguration: Mark 9:2-13 & Old Testament Promise that He would be hated without cause Psalm 69:4
- This passage is something straight out of a special effects dream. Think about the scene in Return of the Jedi when Luke sees Anikin, Obi-wan and yoda as ghosts. This would have been an awesome faith encounter for the disciples. What has been a “mountain top” experience for you in your faith journey?
- The disciples couldn’t get too comfortable on that mountain, and had to eventually come down from the mountain and continue on with their ministry. What is God calling you into so that you might leave your comfort zone?
Friday: At the Home of Mary and Martha: Luke 10:38-42 & Old Testament Promise that He would be rejected by rulers Psalm 118:22
- STOP! Take a breath. Just enjoy the stillness of being in the presence of God for a few minutes.
- A post went out this morning asking What you do to recharge your energy for life? You are encouraged to comment on our website, or at www.facebook.com/faithpointum or respond on twitter.
Saturday: Request of James and John: Mark 10:35-45 & Old Testament Promise that He would be rejected by his brothers Psalm 69:18
- We have a natural tendency to rank, compare, and sort out others and try and see where we fall into the mix. We speculate and make predictions about who will come out on top (it is March Madness season after all). Who do you most compare yourself?
- How do you think James and John took the news when Jesus responded to their request? With humility, with a challenge to see who could serve the BEST, or another way?
- How can you become the least this weekend?