Discussion 25 March 2012

Fifth Sunday of Lent
HEBREWS 5:5-10

⁵So also Christ did not glorify himself in becoming a high priest, but was appointed by the one who said to him, 
     “You are my Son, 
          today I have begotten you”; 
⁶as he says also in another place, 
     “You are a priest forever, 
          according to the order of Melchizedek.”

⁷In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. ⁸Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; ⁹and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, ¹⁰having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.


For Consideration
Verse 7 raises all sorts of questions. How does the 1st part of this verse about Jesus' prayers relate to Him being a "high priest?"
 Does this verse imply God could have saved Jesus from a horrific death? 
What does it mean that Jesus was heard because of His reverent submission?


In Verse 8, what is meant by the statement "he learned obedience through what he suffered?"

Prayer

The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up. - James 5:15 (NRSV) Praying for others is more than an opportunity; it is a privilege God presents to us. That day I learned that when we are asked to pray for someone, we should do it. God will take care of the rest. Prayer: Loving God, grant us the sensitivity to recognize and act on opportunities to pray for others. Amen.

A Redemptive Ethic

We seek to continue Christ's work of rising from trespasses & sins and being made alive together. The work begins within the church.

Prayer:
Saved through faith, I offer my life to You for all that I may be and do in the world. Amen

Discussion for March 18, 2012

4th Sunday of Lent

Lent is a time of repentance and decision. It is also a time to reflect on other themes such as sin, healing and thanksgiving. Listed below are the four lectionary texts.

Numbers 21:4-9
Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
Ephesians 2:1-10
John 3:14-21

For consideration:
What do these selections have in common?
What do they suggest about faith and obedience?
Is faith anything more than a belief?
Do these selections offer us any choices?

Prayer for Lent

From Psalm 126

May the actions of today become a joyful memory in the future. Amen

Quote & Prayer for Lent

What seems to be a long delay in Christ's return is really God's gracious way of saying to us, from generation to generation, it is not too late. Wait in penitence and hope.  David L. Bartlett


Prayer: Be patient with me, God, and give me the patience as i wait for you. Amen

Prayer for Lent

God of justice, fill me to overflowing with your peace. Amen