October 13, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for October 13th: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7; Psalm 66:1-12; 2 Timothy 2:8-15; Luke 17:11-19 Theme: the value of gratefulness Luke: Have you ever done something for someone, and received no thanks for your effort? The story of the ten lepers shows us how Jesus responds to that situation. Healing of impossible illnesses were an important part of Jesus’ ministry. He had healed lepers before. The ten that come to him are also Samaritans (foreigners). Jesus still does what is necessary to make their lives better. Only one of them thinks to come back to say thank you. That person was truly transformed, and truly understand what it means to have a new life. As followers of Christ, we should all strive to be that tenth leper and be grateful. 2 Timothy: The letters to Timothy are Paul’s letters to his protégé. He is teaching him what it means to be a pastor. In the past he has told Timothy to hold onto the traditions that he inherited from his parents and to not be afraid to teach others what he has learned himself. In the lesson, Paul tells Timothy to trust in Jesus Christ. The power of the gospel is in the life and resurrection of Christ. As followers we should live in unity, we should endure the hardships of life, look for his faithfulness, but know that he does not appreciate your sin. All of the keys to to a successful life lie in our faith in Christ. Questions: How have you been healed by the presence of Christ? How do you say thank you for what you have received? Who is a mentor that you really appreciate? What is the best advice that they have given to you?