Part 1
Part 1
Part 1
During this period of global pandemic, many of us have been dealing with stress in one way or another. It is easy for us to lose sight of the privilege to serve our King as we face challenges in our own situations. Jesus also experienced challenge, including the most challenging purpose of God: to die on the cross for our sin. He understands our current circumstances and wants us to be resilient and strong as we follow His example in being a humble servant. God loves us, and His Holy Spirit will be with us as we seek to sacrifice our time and resources to serve Him, not forgetting that our compensation is greater than the cost. Jesus calls us to reach out and include those who are different from us and invite them into our circle as we emulate His love and follow the way of the King.
Read Mark 10:35-45
Discuss
- How have you been getting on through the many COVID-19 lockdowns? Share with the group if there are challenges you are facing, such as fatigue and stress, and how they may be creeping into your relationships with your family, friends and God.
- Read Mark 10:35-37. James and John’s request might seem a bit selfish as they demanded Jesus grant their wishes. But why do you think they requested this? Where do you find yourself asking God with a similar tone?
- Pastor Scott mentioned that sometimes we think we have failed God to the point that we wonder if He has given up on us. To what extent have you felt this way and are there any barriers that you are facing in bringing these thoughts to God in prayer? Share with the group how they can pray for you.
- Read Mark 10:45. Jesus came to be our humble Servant King rather than a king with political power. There is a cost in following and serving Jesus with a humble spirit. Are there any challenges you are facing in serving Jesus humbly? How can we encourage one another not to lose sight of the privilege of serving our King?
- Pastor Scott reminded us that we can be resilient if we draw strength from God. As we seek to serve Him humbly, God has promised He loves us and that the Holy Spirit is with us. Share with the group any uplifting experiences you have had as you continue to seek and serve God humbly in these unusual times. How can we let God ascend as we descend in our ministry?
- Throughout the New Testament, Jesus healed many people who were on the fringe of the Jewish society. How can we open this life group’s circle to include people who are different from us? Are there any barriers that you are facing as you try to invite them into your circle, following the way of our King?
Respond
This week, ask the Holy Spirit to help you think of someone that you can invite into both yours and this life group’s semi-circle. Think of one thing you can do to celebrate or help this person. Commit to doing it.