On this Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost we will be reading from the Gospel according to Mark. In this week's lesson, we hear Jesus tell his followers what type of life one must lead to develop an open mind and heart to the deeds of his ministry. The world can often define "success" in different terms than the way Jesus proclaims, and this week's lesson helps us to understand the humility and love towards others is way that brings us closer to God's mission.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 9:30-37).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the Scripture for the week, and reflect on any word(s) or phrase(s) that may have had a particularly important meaning for you. To obtain some background of why the disciples might have been arguing about their "successes" (who was the greatest among them), read the healing story in the earlier verses of chapter 9 in Mark (Mark 9: 14-29). Why do you think the disciples' experience as described in the healing story may have created some arguments and conflicts?
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, reflect on the disciples' lack of understanding of Jesus' passion and resurrection prediction; and also reflect on the fact that the disciples would one day lead lives that were also challenged due to their spreading of the Gospel of Christ. How might their present "misunderstanding" become informed with lessons of the challenges of discipleship?
After reading the "WHERE..." paragraph below, reflect on Jesus' command to welcome the child (or, one without any power or status) as one would welcome Jesus himself, and welcome the One who sent Jesus. Service and humility are important aspects of Jesus' message - how might this message become part of our lives?
After reading the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on the author's sentence, "It is sad for a person to be so consumed with what others think about him, to be so insecure in who he is that he must seek public recognition of his importance." How might we become confident in the love and recognition we receive from God that we are better able to resist the temptations and recognitions of the world and seek God's will for us?
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