June 28, 2015

Breaking Open the Scripture Scripture for June 28th: 2 Samuel 1:1,17-27; Psalm 130; 2 Corinthians 8:7-15; Mark 5:21-43; Theme: The healing power of Jesus; UMH 474: Precious Lord 2 Corinthians: Paul continues his reconciliation with the Corinthian Church. Even though he was the one who started the church, they reject him. Paul writes a very strong letter the help them understand what is going on from a Christian perspective. When we are Christian family, there is always an opportunity for reconciliation. If we put Christ first, there is nothing that we cannot overcome. Paul tells us that it is time for us to reconcile and move on. That Christ is depending on us to make this a fair and just world for all. We should not let our differences with one another stop us from helping others. There is just too much work that needs to be done. Christ wants us to be able to work together. Mark: This is an example of Jesus healing ministry. Once again he shows that if we put our faith in him, if we move forward, then Christ healing power will do the rest. Jesus has been showing his power all throughout the land. Jesus meets the needs of all that he comes in contact with. The more people believe that Jesus cannot change the situation, he makes a difference. He heals all people regardless of their story. The power that Jesus has to heal, he gave it to his disciples, he gives it to us. We have the power to make a difference in all peoples lives, just by having faith. Questions: Who do you need to be reconciled with? What are the barriers that stand in the way of that reconciliation? How can you help others by getting through the reconciliation? Who do you know that needs to be healed in your life? What can you do to heal them? What can Christ do to heal them?

June 14, 2015

Breaking Open the Scripture Scripture for June 14th: 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13; Psalm 20; 2 Corinthians 5:6-13, 14-17; Mark 4:26-34: Theme: Wait for the seeds of faith to grow: Song: Have Thine Own Way - UMH 382 2 Corinthians: This is Paul’s continuation to defend himself against criticism from the Corinthian church. He continues to remind us of what it means to have life in Christ. He continues to make the distinction between life in the flesh and life in the spirit. But he says that if we have given our life to Christ, then we should behave the same in spirit and in flesh. The spirit of Christ should take over the actions of the flesh. Imagine if we had the ability to see people as God sees them and not how we see them? In God’s eyes, we all have the same potential. We all have the responsibility to live up to that potential. In Christ we can change at any moment, and live according to the encouragement of the Spirit. We can always become a new person in Christ. Mark: We live in a world that is filled with potential. We live according to what is happening today, but also what will happen tomorrow. God starts with potential, then he waters it, nurtures it and watches it grow. Our destiny is never jut given to us, we just have to grow into it. Jesus says that the kingdom of God is like seeds that are sown everywhere. Some of them grow, and some of them do not. But each of us has potential to grow where we are planted. Sometimes, it is the most unexpected plants that grow the most. That is the parable of the mustard seed. To always have faith. To believe in God and to believe that God has a plan for you and for your life. To know that you are present in this moment, but most importantly, God is preparing you and us for eternity. Questions: Who are we ignoring in the church? Who do we need to be reminded that they are equal to us in the eyes of God? What fleshly behavior do to need to get rid of? What spiritual behaviors do you need to further develop? How is god spreading seeds in your life? What seeds are you spreading to other places and people? What mustard seeds have you witnessed growing in the world?