September 18, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. - Please join us for our upcoming Scripture Reflection gathering, which will be held this coming Sunday, at 9:00 a.m., in the church library.
On this coming Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, we will explore a reading from the Gospel according to Luke. The Scripture lesson includes a parable story that is often thought by biblical scholars to be one of the most difficult stories to understand Jesus’ teaching. Not to fear! We will discuss the story and its meaning for our lives in a world that often pulls us in different directions, and tempts us to store up earthly treasures that fill our hearts and minds, leaving little room for the grace-filled gifts given by God.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Luke. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Luke 16:1-13).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the assigned Scripture lesson for the week, listening for any words, phrases or parts of the story that capture your attention. After reading the entire Gospel reading, consider if you might have any questions for Jesus about the parable or about his teaching after the parable story.
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, and reflect on the following questions: what do you believe motivated the manager to take the action he did? What was he hoping to accomplish; and do you believe his actions were a "selfish act" or something he did for the good of himself and his family? What is it about wealth that tempts people to set aside their commitment to following God's way?
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below, and reflect on the following questions: Why do you think the dishonest manager was commended? What might be the danger in placing one's faith in wealth; and what might be the difference in behavior of using wealth for selfish gain vs. for the mission of God?
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph and reflect on what it means in your life to use the gifts you have been given (material and spiritual) "in light of our eternal relationship with God?"
Read the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below and reflect how you might live your life, using your gifts in a manner that shows "serving God means that loving people is always the bottom line."
Comments