Lent is a 40-day period of time that leads up to the celebration of Easter. We think it is one of the best opportunities to explore your spiritual journey and pursue wholeness and healing in life. This year we’re journeying together through the book of Luke, looking at interactions Jesus had with others throughout his life. This week we look at a story where Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath and challenges our understanding of the kingdom of God and his character and disposition toward us.
Title of Series: Lent 2019, Week 5 | April 7, 2019
Key Passage: Luke 13:10-21
Secondary Passage: Exodus 20:8-10
Discussion Questions
- In what area(s) of life do you experience the drive to earn worth and get things accomplished – work, friends, hobbies, domestic work, etc?
- How have you experienced the temptation to bring this drive to work and accomplish things to your faith?
- Are there times where you’ve felt disappointment or a sense that you should be doing “more” in regards to your faith? If so, explain.
- Read through the story from Luke 13:10-17 again. What stands out for you as you re-read about Jesus’ interactions with the afflicted woman and the synagogue leader?
- How does it make you feel to know that there is nothing you can do to earn God’s love?
- Sometimes it’s easier to receive grace for ourselves than for others. Think about someone you consider to be a menace to society – murderers, rapists, child molestors, etc. Now consider that God offers his love to them as well, regardless of what they’ve done? How does this make you feel?
- How would embracing the truth that you don’t have to do anything to earn or maintain God’s love for you change your life – internally and externally?
Moving Forward
- Consider how you might remind yourself of this truth. What practices or habits could you use to help you root your life in the reality of God’s unmerited love for you?
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