The Weekly Liturgy :: Week of 9/5/21
Gather - We begin our Liturgy in corporate worship by coming together and acknowledging who God is through the Acclamation. God’s character and presence frames our corporate worship and this is also the way we begin our Weekly Liturgy whether we engage it personally or in a group setting.
How did you experience God’s character and presence this week (joys, struggles, breakthroughs)?
Word - We desire for God’s Word to always be on our minds, upon our lips, and deep in our hearts. We want to read, reflect, listen, and respond to God’s word as we are formed more deeply as disciples of Jesus.
Read Mark 12:1-11 and Philippians 2:5-11.
Reflect on these passages either individually or with others. You can also use these questions:
What stood out to you about the Scripture or sermon?
Are there times in life you act more like an owner versus a tenant? Explain more.
Do you struggle with trying to control your life? If so, tell us a moment when this was the case. When you struggle to control your life, do you feel anxious, fearful, or have a general lack of gratitude?
As followers of Jesus, we are called to be instruments of God's life to the world. We do so by exercising authority coupled with vulnerability.
Using the gifts God has given is one way to express authority. What are some of the gifts God has given you?
Tell us about a time that others were built up or encouraged because you used your authority (gifting) to serve others?
Anytime we use our gifts in service to others, we open ourselves up for risk. For example, a parent uses their gifting and authority as a parent to love their child. This exposes them to be hurt or encouraged. It is a risk. Describe a time when you were vulnerable while using your gift. Were you hurt, encouraged, or something else?
In light of the sermon, what do you feel like the Holy Spirit is saying to you?
Listen to the Holy Spirit. How is God speaking to you through this passage?
Respond through confession and repentance.
Questions to engage either corporately or silently: What have you put in place of God or given your heart to this week? What sin do you need to repent of? What area are you not trusting your identity is in Christ? Encourage one another to turn to God and receive his forgiveness and grace. (Consider praying our Corporate Confession together).
Prayer - Spend a few minutes praying into the areas God has spoken to you about. Pray for one another, for the non-believers in your lives, and for the world. (Consider praying through the Lord’s Prayer).
Sending - We are all called and sent out into the world to bring the message of the Gospel. Where are you being sent this week to share Jesus through your actions and words? Is there a specific person or area you need to reach out to or pray for?