Grand Lake United Methodist Church

Read 1 Peter 1: 3-51. How did the theme of “Becoming a Little More Like Jesus” during Lent impact yourpersonal walk with Christ? Which weekly key word resonated most with you andwhy?2. The sermon mentioned the phrase, “A lot can happen in seven days.” How does thetransition from the despair of Good Friday to the joy of Easter Sunday help youunderstand the concept of “Living Hope”?3. Imagine being in Mary Magdalene's shoes—what thoughts or emotions might youhave experienced upon finding the empty tomb? How does her encounter with therisen Christ shape your understanding of hope?4. Pastor Mick said Easter is “proof that good overcomes evil...light overcomesdarkness.” What personal experiences or moments have reminded you of this truthin your own life?5. The Message translation of the passage says, “we've been given a brand-new lifeand have everything to live for.” What does this “brand-new life” look like for youpractically?6. The quote, “He didn't wait for me to get it right. He died knowing I couldn't, andloved me anyway,” was highlighted as a summary of the gospel. What does thisreveal about the nature of God's mercy? How does that change how you seeyourself? How does that change how you see others?7. If Jesus has done all the heavy lifting, why do you think our response of faith is stillessential? What does “faith” look like in your day-to-day life?8. Have you ever fallen into the trap of trying to earn God's love or approval, even afterbecoming a Christian? What helps you shift your mindset back to grace?9. The sermon introduced the “Romans Road to Salvation.” Which verse from that pathspeaks most deeply to you right now, and why? (Romans 3: 10, 3: 23, 5: 8, 6: 23,10: 9-10, 10: 13)10. “Living Hope” is not just for Easter Sunday—it's for every day. What does it mean foryou to carry that hope into your relationships, challenges, and daily routines?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and merciful God, we thank You for the gift of Living Hope through theresurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the journey from the cross to theempty tomb, we are reminded that You meet us in our weakness with grace that neverfails. Help us to live each day in the truth that we don't have to earn Your love—you'vealready given it freely. Strengthen our faith to trust in Your promises, and guide us towalk in the new life You've made possible, sharing Your hope with a world still in need ofYour marvelous light. May our hearts continue to become a little more like Jesus and alittle less like ourselves, anchored always in Your love and mercy. We pray all of this inthe name of our risen Savior and Lord, Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Message - "Sacrifice"

Read Matthew 21: 1-9.1. What is the significance of Holy Week, and how does it shape ourunderstanding of Jesus' mission?2. How does the contrast between the Triumphal Entry and the Crucifixiondemonstrate the unexpected nature of Jesus' kingship?3. What does the phrase "With God, even when we're down, we're not out"mean in the context of Holy Week? How can we apply this to our personallives?4. Romans 8: 28 reminds us that "in all things God works for the good of thosewho love him." How does this verse speak to the peace we receive throughChrist?5. Jesus is described as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9: 6. How does this titlecontrast with the expectations of the people during His time?6. What is the significance of the crowd shouting, "Hosanna!" at Jesus' entryinto Jerusalem? What did they hope for, and how did their expectationsshift?7. In what ways did the people of Jerusalem's reaction to Jesus' entry differfrom their reaction when they shouted, "Crucify him!"?8. The sermon talks about choosing between "Jesus of Nazareth" and "JesusBarabbas." How can we sometimes make similar choices in our own livesbetween the peace that Jesus offers and the false peace that the worldoffers?9. Why is it important that Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, was the ultimatesacrifice for our sins? How does this act bring us peace?10. In John 14: 27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you."What does this peace look like in your life today, and how can you share itwith others?Prayer for the Week:Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible gift of peace that we find inJesus Christ. As we reflect on the events of Holy Week, we are humbled by thelove and sacrifice that You demonstrated through Your Son. Help us toremember that, even in times of turmoil, Your peace is greater than all the chaosaround us. Teach us to trust in Your plan, even when things don't go as weexpect, and to find comfort in knowing that You are always working for our good.Lord, we ask that the peace of Christ would fill our hearts, minds, and lives. Maywe be instruments of peace in a world that desperately needs it. Help us to carrythat peace to others and to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. Weoffer this prayer in the name of Jesus, our Savior, the Prince of Peace. Amen.

Read James 5: 7-11.1. What does it mean to be patient in the context of waiting for theLord's return? How can we practically apply this to our lives today?2. What are some areas in your life where you struggle with impatience?How can you grow more patient in those areas?3. Reflecting on the example of the farmer in James 5: 7, what does"long-suffering" look like in your own spiritual walk?4. Read Romans 12: 12. How does this verse challenge ourunderstanding of patience? How does joy relate to patience inaffliction?5. Why is it important to focus on God's promises when experiencingtrials? How do His promises give us strength to persevere?6. How does the example of Job inspire you when you face suffering?What can we learn from his response to hardship? How did Godultimately respond to Job's patience and trust?7. 1 Corinthians 13: 4 says, “Love is patient.” What does it mean for loveto be patient? Why is this important in our relationships with others?How does this reflect the nature of God?8. How can we support each other in cultivating patience during trials?What role does community play in this process? 9. What is one area of your life where you feel God is calling you to bemore patient? How will you respond to His call this week?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God, thank You for Your patience with us as we liveand learn through the ups and downs of life. Please instill in us thepatience we need to truly love others the way you love us. Strengthen ourhearts and help us to persevere through life's trials with steadfast faith,knowing that Your promises are trustworthy and true. Keep us fromgrumbling as we patiently bear with one another, even carrying eachother's burdens. May Your Spirit fill us with hope and perseverance as weeagerly await Your return. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Read Hebrews 11: 1-2.1. What does the word “faith” mean to you?2. Take a look at all of Hebrews 11. Why is this chapter sometimes referred to as the“Hall of Faith”?3. Why does the phrase “by faith” occur so many times in chapter 11? What does thistell us about our own lives?4. Pastor Wendy Joyner describes life as a “glorious adventure” that we are to “viewthrough the lens of eternity.” She says we need to be “farsighted pilgrims.” What doyou think she means by all of this?5. Hebrews 11: 13 describes the Biblical heroes of the “Hall of Faith” as being “likestrangers and foreigners on the earth.” C.S. Lewis said, “The fact that our heartyearns for something Earth can't supply is proof that Heaven must be our home.”What do you make of this? Can you relate?6. 2 Corinthians 5: 7 says, “We walk by faith and not by sight.” What does this mean toyou?7. James 2: 17 says, “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Whatdoes that mean to you? Is faith more than what we believe, but actually how welive? Is this what it means to “walk by faith,” actually putting our faith into action?8. Hebrews 11: 16 says, “they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one.” Howdoes this relate to questions 4 and 5 above? How does this inform us about the waywe are to live our daily lives? How might this mindset help us through the difficulttimes of life?9. Becoming more like Jesus is a daily pursuit, shaped by trusting God's promises,enduring life's ups and downs with faith, and living with an eternal perspective. Doyou agree with this statement? Why/why not?10. What do you need to change in your life in order to become a little more like Jesus?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God, we thank You for the powerful examples of faith You havegiven us through the Biblical heroes listed in the “Hall of Faith.” We are grateful for theopportunity to learn from their trust in Your promises, their endurance through the upsand downs of life, and their eternal perspective. Lord, help us to be “far sighted pilgrims”like them, living life as a glorious adventure viewed through the lens of eternity. In sodoing, help us to become a little more like Jesus. Help us to trust Your promises evenwhen the road ahead is unclear. Give us the strength to endure challenges and trialswith unwavering faith, knowing that You are using all of it to guide us and to shape usmore into the image of Jesus. May our lives reflect His love, His obedience, and Hisperseverance as we commit to walk by faith and not by sight. We pray all of this in thestrong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, nowand forever. Amen.

Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection1. When you think of the word "goodness," what comes to mind? How would you define God's goodness versus how the world defines goodness?2. Read Matthew 5: 1-12 (The Beatitudes). Which of these blessings stands out to you the most? How do these characteristics reflect the goodness we are called to live out?3. Jesus calls His followers “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5: 13). What do you think He meant by this? How does salt relate to the way we live out our faith?4. Jesus also calls us “the light of the world” (Matthew 5: 14-16). What are some ways we can be a light in our daily lives?5. In verse 16, Jesus says that our good works should glorify God. How do we make sure our actions point to God and not just to ourselves?6. In what ways can we preserve (like salt) and illuminate (like light) God's truth and love in our communities?7. Jesus calls us to let our goodness shine in a way that draws others to God. What's one practical step you can take this week to reflect Christ's goodness to those around you?8. What do you need from God to live as salt and light this week?9. Who in your life needs to experience God's goodness, and how can you be part of that?Prayer for the Week:Gracious God, You have called us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Help us to live out Your goodness in all that we do. May our words be seasoned with grace, our actions reflect Your love and our lives shine brightly for Your glory. When the world feels dark, let us be a light. When others are in need, help us to be generous. When we face challenges, remind us that Your goodness sustains us. May we bring flavor to a world that longs for hope and shines with the love of Christ wherever we go. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Read Luke 10: 25-37.1. What do you think the lawyer's motivation was for asking Jesus, "Whatmust I do to inherit eternal life?" How might this question reflect ourown attitudes toward faith?2. Jesus asked the lawyer, "What is written in the Law?" How would youanswer this question in your own life today?3. In what ways can loving God and loving neighbor become a tangibleexpression of your faith in everyday life?4. What is the difference between "works righteousness" and lovingothers because we are already saved? How does this impact the waywe love others?5. Why do you think Jesus chose a Samaritan as the hero of the parable?How does this challenge your understanding of who your neighbor is?6. In what ways do we often judge others based on their differences,similar to how the priest and Levite passed by the man in need?7. What does it mean to "love your neighbor as yourself" in practicalterms, especially when those neighbors are different from you?8. How do you "read" or interpret the command to love God and loveyour neighbor? How does your understanding of this shape youractions toward others?9. Jesus emphasizes mercy and grace throughout this parable. How canwe extend these qualities to those around us, even when they don't"deserve" it?10. As we reflect on Lent and the command to "go and do likewise," whatspecific actions can you take to embody mercy, grace and love in yourrelationships with others moving forward?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God, as we journey through this season of Lent, wethank You for the powerful example of mercy and grace You have shownus in Jesus Christ. Help us to reflect Your love in all that we do, especiallyas we interact with those who are different from us. Teach us to love notjust with words, but with tangible actions that reflect the mercy and gracewe have received from You. May our hearts be softened, our minds open,and our hands ready to serve, as we become A Little More Like Jesus eachday. We pray for Your strength and wisdom to guide us in loving ourneighbors, just as You have loved us. We pray all of this in the strongname of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God,now and forever. Amen.

Read Micah 6: 6-8.1. What does Lent mean to you personally, and how can it shape yourrelationship with God over the next few weeks?2. How does the shift from "Everybody Needs a Little Jesus" to"Becoming a Little More Like Jesus" challenge or inspire you?3. What is your understanding of humility, and how would you define itin your own words?4. How do the examples of Jesus in Philippians 2: 5-8 and John 5: 19show us the essence of humility in action? How might this guide ourdaily living?5. Read 1 Peter 5: 5-6. What does it mean to “clothe yourselves withhumility”? What happens if we don't?6. How can we practice humility in serving God and others, as outlined inEphesians 4: 2 and Luke 9: 23?7. What does James 4: 10 say about the connection between humilityand God's favor? How does this encourage you in your spiritual walk?8. How can we cultivate an attitude of gratitude and avoid complainingduring Lent? What benefits might this offer us? How is this related tohumility?9. What does it mean for you, in your own words, to imitate Jesus'humility during this Lenten season? How can you take steps to do so?10. What are some outward signs (or changes) others might notice in youas a result of your focus on humility this Lenten season?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God,We commit ourselves to this Lenten journey, humbly trusting in Yourpower to transform our lives, and even the world. We thank You for theexample of humility that Jesus modeled for us. We ask for Your strengthto follow Jesus' example, to lay down our pride, and to receive Your favor.We pray that You would continue to shape our hearts and minds to bemore like Jesus - less like ourselves and more like Him. Teach us topractice humility in our relationships, in our service to You, and in the waywe live sacrificially for others. May we be instruments of Your justice andmercy in the world around us, so that our lives reflect Your love and grace,enabling others to see Your light shining through us.In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Thank you for joining us tonight.

Read Luke 15: 11-32.1. What does the word “prodigal” mean? How can it be used in bothpositive and negative contexts?2. Why do you think the father agreed to give the youngest son hisinheritance early?3. What happens to the youngest son after he goes off on his own?4. What does the youngest son decide to do when he hits rock bottom?What is he hoping his father will do for him?5. How does the father respond to the younger son's return? What doesthis tell us about God's response to repentant sinners?6. Why was the older son mad at the end of the parable? Can yourelate?7. In what ways does the younger son represent sinners and taxcollectors and the older son represent Scribes and Pharisees?8. Have there been different times in your life when you've acted likeeach of the brothers? What does the song “Man on the Middle Cross”by Rhett Walker teach us about ourselves.9. What do you think about the terms “prodigal forgiveness” and“prodigal grace”? Have you ever heard “prodigal” used that waybefore? What do these terms mean? Why do we need them?Reflection:Gracious and Loving God, we come before You with hearts full of gratitudefor Your boundless grace, as demonstrated in the story of the prodigalson. We confess our own waywardness and sin, and we thank You for theunwavering love and forgiveness You offer, no matter how far we havestrayed. Just as the father in the parable welcomed his lost son with openarms, You welcome us back, no matter our failures. Lord, help us toembrace Your grace fully and live in the light of Your mercy as we extendthis grace to others, reflecting Your love in all that we do. We pray all ofthis in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and theHoly Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.

1. Read Acts 9: 1-19. How does Saul's encounter with Jesus demonstrate God'sgrace?2. Have you ever experienced a moment in your life where God's grace completelychanged your direction?3. Saul went from being a persecutor of Christians to one of the greatest apostles.What does this say about the power of God's grace?4. How does Paul's transformation challenge the way we view people who seem"too far gone" for God to reach?5. Paul's first response after his conversion was to be baptized and begin preaching.How do we respond when we experience God's grace in our own lives?6. What are some practical ways we can live as transformed people, just as Pauldid?7. Ananias played a crucial role in welcoming Saul and helping him take his firststeps as a believer. Who has been an “Ananias” in your life - someone whoencouraged you in faith?8. How can we be like Ananias to others who are new to faith or struggling in theirspiritual journey?9. Sometimes we struggle to accept God's grace for our own past mistakes. Whatdoes Paul's story teach us about releasing guilt and walking in grace?10. Who in your life do you need to extend grace to, just as God extended grace toPaul?11. Read 1 Timothy 1: 12-16, where Paul reflects on God's grace in his life. Howdoes this passage encourage you in your own walk with God?12. Identify an area in your life where God has transformed you over time. How canyou share that testimony with someone this week?13. Read Romans 12: 1-2. How does grace lead to a renewed mind and atransformed life?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Mighty God,Thank You for the transforming power of Your grace. Just as You met Saul on theroad to Damascus, meet us in the places where we need Your mercy and grace.Open our eyes to see You more clearly, soften our hearts to receive Your love, andstrengthen our steps to follow where You lead.Help us to trust that no one is beyond Your reach, including ourselves. Fill us withthe same boldness and passion that You gave Paul, that we may share Your gracewith the world. Use us this week to be a light, an encourager, and a witness to thelife-changing power of Jesus.In Jesus' name we pray,Amen.

Read Mark 2: 1-12.1. Share a time when someone's love and support helped you in a difficult season.How did their actions impact you?2. If you were the paralytic in the story, what emotions do you think you wouldhave felt as your friends carried you to Jesus?3. The paralytic was unable to get to Jesus on his own. How does this reflect ourspiritual condition before Christ?4. Who do you know that may need to be “carried” to Jesus through prayer,encouragement, or an invitation to faith?5. The paralytic's friends faced obstacles (the crowd, the roof) but didn't give up.What are some common obstacles that keep people from coming to Jesustoday?6. Jesus saw their faith. What does that teach us about the role of community inspiritual transformation?7. What are some ways we can actively bring others to Jesus, even when it'sinconvenient or difficult?8. How does this story challenge our priorities when praying for ourselves orothers?9. What does this passage teach us about the depth of Jesus' grace?10. When the man was healed, the crowd glorified God. How does God use changedlives to bring others to Him?11. In what ways has God's grace changed your life, and how can you share thattestimony with others?12. How can our church be a place where people experience both the power offriendship and the grace of Jesus?13. Who in your life might need to experience the love of Jesus through yourfriendship?14. What is one practical step you can take this week to be a faithful friend whobrings others closer to Christ?15. If you had been in that house, watching this miracle unfold, how do you think itwould have changed your faith?Prayer for the Week:Gracious God, Thank You for the friends who lift us up when we are weak and for thegrace that meets us where we are. Help us to be the kind of people who carry othersto You, tearing down any barriers that stand in the way of Your love. When we feelhelpless, remind us that Your grace is enough. When we see others in need, give usthe courage to act in faith.May our lives be a testimony of the love that carries and the grace that changes.Lead us this week to walk in compassion, boldness, and gratitude for all You havedone.In Jesus' name, Amen.

Read Mark 5: 25-34.1. What were the two interruptions Jesus encountered in the largernarrative of today's passage? How did Jesus respond to theseinterruptions? How might that affect our own prayer lives?2. How do you think the woman with the hemorrhage would have beentreated in her society? Why would she have been treated that way?3. Who, in our modern society, is treated as unclean, untouchable andexiled? What can we, as followers of Christ, do to help?4. Why do you think this woman sought the help of Jesus at this time inher life? What other things had she tried to be healed?5. What did Jesus say was the true source of her healing?6. Do you think it was easy for the woman to get to Jesus? If not, whydid she fight so hard to get to Him? What does this mean to us today?7. What did Jesus call the woman after she was healed? What do youthink this meant to the woman?8. How was the woman's healing more than just physical? How wouldher life have been different going forward?9. Acts 10: 15 (NLT) says, “Do not call something unclean if God has madeit clean.” What does that mean to you? Is there deeper meaning tothis verse? How does it instruct us to treat others, even if they are“unclean” or “misfits”?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, we come before You with grateful hearts,remembering the woman who sought healing with unwavering faith,touching the hem of Your garment and receiving the wholeness shelonged for. Remind us that just as You were available to her in herdeepest moment of need, You are available to us in our brokenness, ourweariness, and our times of feeling like misfits in this world. We thankYou, Lord, that in Your Kingdom, there are no misfits—You embrace us all,just as we are, and offer the healing, love, and grace that transforms us.Help us to live with the same courage and faith as the woman whoreached out, knowing that You are always near, ready to restore and makeus new. We pray all of this in the precious, holy and strong name of Jesus,who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now andforever. Amen.

Read John 4: 1-30.1. The woman at the well didn't expect to meet Jesus that day. Have you ever had amoment when God showed up unexpectedly in your life? How did that experiencechange you?2. Jesus broke cultural and social barriers to speak with the Samaritan woman. Whatbarriers exist in our world, community, or church today? How can we follow Jesus'example in breaking them down?3. The woman was fully known by Jesus—her story, her past, and her struggles—and yetwas still loved. How does it feel to know that God sees and loves you completely?4. What does the "living water" Jesus offers represent to you in your life right now?How have you experienced this living water in times of spiritual thirst?5. The woman left her water jar behind after encountering Jesus. What “waterjar” (burden, fear, or past hurt) do you need to leave behind to fully embrace God'sgrace?6. After meeting Jesus, the woman immediately went to share her story with others.How can your personal story of encountering God's grace be used to encourage or blesssomeone else?7. Samaria represented a place Jews avoided, yet Jesus intentionally went there. Whatis your “Samaria” (a person, group, or place you find challenging)? How can you bringChrist's love and grace to that place?8. Jesus told the woman that true worship is about Spirit and truth rather than a specificplace. How can we make our worship more authentic, both individually and as a church?9. How can you, as an individual, offer “living water” to people who are spirituallythirsty—both across the street and around the world?10. What is one thing you are taking away from this sermon that you feel God is callingyou to act on this week?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, This week, may we be reminded of Your boundless grace thatmeets us right where we are. You know our hearts, our struggles, and our stories, andyet You call us beloved. Help us to embrace Your living water, which refreshes our soulsand sustains us through every challenge. Open our eyes to the "Samarias" in our lives—the places and people we may overlook or avoid. Give us courage to cross boundaries,just as Jesus did, offering Your love, help, and hope to those who thirst for it.Help us to leave behind the burdens we carry—our doubts, fears, and failures—andinstead walk boldly in the freedom of Your grace. Teach us to worship You in Spirit andin truth, not just with our words but with our lives.We place this week in Your hands, trusting You to lead us, guide us, and use us for Yourglory. In Jesus' name we pray.Amen.

Read John 8: 2-111. Today's passage is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. Why doyou think it resonates so much with people throughout the ages?2. What was the Pharisees' true intention of bringing this woman before Jesus?What did they want to happen?3. Pastor Mick said it seems like the Pharisees are acting pretty smug in thispassage. What do they say that might be interpreted as smug or sarcastic?4. Pastor Mick asked the question of whether we think this woman was a “vixenor victim.” What did he mean by that? What do you think? Does it matter?Why/why not?5. Why did Jesus bend down and draw in the dirt? What was the underlyingmeaning of this in his culture?6. How did Jesus flip the script, or turn the tables, on the Pharisees? How didhe avoid the trap the Pharisees set for him? What did he say?7. Why did the Pharisees drop their stones and walk away? What does thismean for us today?8. What does Jesus say to the woman? What does this teach us about grace,repentance and life-transformation?9. Read Romans 8: 1. How does this relate to today's passage? What does itmean for our lives?10. Read Romans 7: 19. What does this mean for us and our need tocontinually repent?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, we come before You with humble hearts, grateful forYour boundless grace and mercy. Just as You showed compassion to the womancaught in sin, You extend forgiveness to each of us, even in our moments offailure and struggle. We confess that, like Paul, we often find ourselves doing thevery things we hate, trapped in the cycle of sin and shame. But we praise You forthe truth that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.We thank You for the freedom You offer through Your Son, our Lord and Savior.Help us to live in the light of Your grace, walking in freedom and righteousness,knowing that in You, we are made whole. We pray all of this in the strong nameof Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now andforever. Amen.

Read Luke 8: 1-3 and Isaiah 43: 1.1. What is Mary Magdalene's condition before meeting Jesus? Whathappens when she meets Jesus?2. What demons do you wrestle with in life? Do you believe Jesus canremove these demons from your life?3. What part of the video clip did you find most impactful? Why?4. Read Jeremiah 1: 5 and Isaiah 49: 16. What do these passages tell usabout God's love for us? How does that make you feel? How mightthis change the way you live?5. In the video, Jesus says to Mary, “That's not for you.” What was Hetalking about? Was there a deeper meaning? Are there things in yourlife now to which Jesus would say, “That's not for you.”?6. The chorus of the Tenth Avenue North song, “You Are More” says,“You are more than the choices that you've made, You are more thanthe sum of your past mistakes, You are more than the problems youcreate, You've been remade.” How does this relate to Mary's story?To your story?7. Read Isaiah 43: 1. How does that verse make you feel? Is that versemeant for everyone?8. How does God's grace heal, transform and empower us to live withpurpose and share the Good News?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God,We come before You today, humbled and in awe of Your great love andfaithfulness. We thank You for the example of Mary Magdalene, whoencountered Your grace and mercy in the midst of her pain andbrokenness. Just as You called her by name, You call each of us by name—reminding us that we are never lost to You, no matter how far we mayhave wandered. We know that we belong to You, and that in Your eyes,we are precious, loved, and seen. We rejoice in knowing that we are morethan our mistakes, more than our past, more than the labels the worldmay try to place on us. We are redeemed! Help us to walk in the freedomof this redemption through Your life-changing grace and remind us thatour true identity is found in You alone. We pray all of this in the mightyand merciful name of Jesus. Amen.

Read Luke 7: 36-50.1. Pastor Mick described this passage as “The Tale of Two Sinners.”What did he mean by that? Who are the two sinners? How arethey similar / different?2. What did the woman do to Jesus' feet and why did she do it?3. Why was Simon the Pharisee so upset with the woman'sbehavior?4. Read Luke 18: 9-14. How is this passage similar to today'spassage? What are these passages trying to tell us?5. Read Matthew 23: 27-28. What is Jesus saying about thePharisees in these verses? How does that correlate with Simonthe Pharisee in today's passage?6. Pastor Mick said that grace and forgiveness aren't a “license tosin” and it doesn't mean “anything goes.” What did he mean bythat? How should grace and forgiveness change our lives?7. Read Matthew 7: 3-5. Who, in today's passage, has a plank intheir eye? Do they know they have a plank in their eye? If not,what is preventing them from understanding this?8. Why is gratitude for God's grace so important? What impactdoes such gratitude have on our lives going forward?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, have mercy on us, as we are sinners. Breakdown any pride or arrogance within us; and fill us with humility andgratitude. Remind us often of the great sacrifice your Son, our LordJesus, made for us so that our sins can be forgiven. Help us to nevertake your grace, his sacrifice, and our forgiveness for granted.Instead, inspire us to continuously repent of our sins and lovebeyond measure, just as you love us. And as we love others, maythey experience your presence and your grace for themselves, thatthey also may receive mercy and forgiveness. We ask all of this inthe precious, holy and strong name of Jesus, who lives and reignswith you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Read Matthew 2: 1-12.1. What do you think of when you hear the word epiphany? How is theterm “Epiphany” used differently in the church compared to its usageoutside the church?2. How is the Magi story an illustration of God's grace, specifically fromthe Wesleyan understanding of grace (prevenient, justifying,sanctifying)?3. In what ways did the Magi have “aha” moments in this story? Whenhave you had similar “aha” moments along your faith journey?4. What drew the Magi to Jesus? What draws you to Jesus?5. How did the Magi respond when they found Jesus? What is yourresponse to Jesus?6. What is the significance of the Magi not being of Jewish descent?What does that mean for the world even today?7. Scripture tells us that the Magi “returned to their country by anotherroute.” In what ways has Jesus changed the direction of your life?8. Why do you think the Magi presented Jesus with such valuable gifts?How was this part of their worship? What does this teach us aboutgiving generously?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, our light and our salvation, be present with usand shine upon us. Teach us to walk as children of the light, to give ourpraise and prayers. Just as the magi worshiped the Christ Child andpresented him with their finest gifts, may we give ourselves to you injoyous celebration, knowing that all we are and all we have belongs toyou. And Lord, we pray for those who, even today, are still living in thedarkness of this world rather than living in the light of your love, mercyand grace. We pray that your goodness and mercy will shine in even thedarkest corners of all our lives, drawing us closer to you, through JesusChrist our Lord and Savior. Amen.

1. What are the daily habits or patterns in your life that help yourejoice in the Lord, even during challenging times? How mightyou cultivate more opportunities to experience joy in God'spresence?2. When you face anxiety or worry, do you naturally turn to prayerand thanksgiving? How can you make these responses morecentral in your spiritual practice?3. What occupies your thoughts most often? Reflect on Philippians4: 8 - how can you align your thinking with what is true, noble,right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy?4. Who in your life serves as a faithful example of practicing peace?What qualities or actions of theirs can you emulate to become agreater instrument of peace in your community?5. What specific steps can you take this week to live out thepromise of Philippians 4: 9 - "put it into practice" - so that thepeace of God becomes more tangible in your relationships anddaily walk?Prayer for the Week:Almighty God, as we step into this new year, we give thanks forYour unfailing presence in our lives. Help us to rejoice always, praycontinually, and give thanks in all circumstances. May Your peace,which transcends all understanding, guard our hearts and minds inChrist Jesus. Teach us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure,lovely, and admirable, so that we may reflect Your light to the world.Empower us to practice what we have learned from Your Word andto live as instruments of Your peace. In Jesus' name, we pray.Amen.

Read Luke 1: 39-45.1. What does the word “theotokos” mean? Why is Mary called“theotokos”?2. What did Mary and Elizabeth have in common? Whatdifferences were there between them?3. Why do you think Mary “got ready and hurried” to visitElizabeth?4. What are all the ways Elizabeth talks about “blessing” in thispassage? How do you think Elizabeth's words made Mary feel?5. What happened when Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting? Why isthis significant?6. What does it mean to choose joy? Why is important toremember to choose joy?7. What does it mean to be a joy-bringer? How is this related tobeing a Christian?8. How can you be a joy-bringer to people in your life?9. How can you be a “theotokos” in your own unique way?Prayer for the Week:Lord Jesus, just as Elizabeth's son leaped for joy in your presence,we also find our joy in you. Remind us daily to choose joy regardlessof our circumstances. Help us to not only choose joy, but also bejoy-bringers to the world around us. Inspire and empower us to be“theotokos” in our own unique ways, bearing witness to your love,mercy and grace in this hurting and broken world. May all that wesay and do bring you honor and glory. We pray all of this in yourprecious, holy and strong name, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Read Luke 1: 26-38.1. Where and to whom did God send the angel Gabriel to announce thecoming Christ child? What is significant about the person and placeGod chose?2. Why was Mary “greatly troubled”?3. What does it mean to “find favor with God”?4. Has God ever called you to something that left you “greatly troubled”?If so, what was it?5. Mary's reactions range from fear to confusion to acceptance (seev. 29, 34 & 38). Can you relate to her reactions? Why/why not?6. Read verse 37. What does this mean to you? How might this be asource of hope in uncertain times?7. Read verse 38. Can you relate to Mary's response? Why/why not?8. How might our lives look different if we simply “let it be” as Marydoes? What does it mean to “Let it be to me according to yourword.”?9. What are some promises in the Bible that you need to remind yourselfof and embrace more often?10. How can you share the Good News of God's promises with others andhelp them to trust in these promises?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God, we confess that we are often troubled andconfused, much like Mary was at first. Please help us to also be like Maryin moving quickly to acceptance, trusting in your promises and the powerof your Word. Remind us daily of your incredible love, mercy and grace.Help us to embrace all the plans you have for us and empower us to helpothers do the same. Remind us that everybody needs a little Jesus, and asHis followers, we are the messengers you have chosen to bring GoodNews to the world. Let it be to us according to your word. We pray all ofthis in the precious, holy and strong name of Jesus, who lives and reignswith you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.

What is your favorite image of peace from Scripture or real life? Read Isaiah 11: 1-9.What stands out to you in this passage?How does the image of the shoot from Jesse's stump inspire hope?What would it look like for a “child to lead them” in today's world? Read Jeremiah 23: 5-6.How does this reinforce Isaiah's vision of a righteous leader?What kind of hope does this bring during Advent? Read Micah 5: 2-5a.What does it mean that God chose Bethlehem, a humble place, for Jesus' birth?How does Jesus bring peace as described in this passage? Read Psalm 72: 1-7.How do justice and peace go hand in hand?What are ways we can reflect the values of God's kingdom? Read Luke 4: 16-21.How does Jesus fulfill Isaiah's prophecy in His ministry?How can we join Jesus in proclaiming good news to the poor and oppressed? Read Ephesians 2: 13-18.How does Jesus break down barriers to bring peace?What barriers do we see in our world, and how can we work to overcome them? Read Revelation 21: 1-5.How does Isaiah's vision of peace point to the ultimate fulfillment in Revelation?What hope does this passage give you as we wait for Christ's return?How does Isaiah's vision challenge us to live differently during Advent?What are small steps you can take this week to reflect Christ's peace and justice? Write down one “peace-building” action you will take this week—whether in yourrelationships, community, or personal life. Take a few minutes of silence to reflect on what it means to follow the child wholeads us.Prayer for the Week:Loving God,You are the root of hope and the source of peace. In this season of Advent, we thank Youfor the promise fulfilled in Jesus - who leads us with wisdom, justice, and compassion.We marvel at the vision of Your kingdom, where wolves and lambs live together, and alittle child leads the way. Help us to trust in Your promise of peace, even when the worldfeels broken and divided.Teach us to walk in the way of Your Son, to see others with His eyes of love, to act withHis heart of justice, and to embrace the peace only He can bring.May we be agents of reconciliation in our homes, our communities, and our world. Makeus bold enough to follow Your Spirit, humble enough to learn from the least, and faithfulenough to reflect the light of Christ in all we say and do.Fill us with the hope of Isaiah's vision, the joy of the angels' song, and the peace ofChrist's eternal reign.In the name of Jesus, our Savior and Shepherd, we pray.Amen.

Read Isaiah 9: 1-7.1. What does the word “Advent” mean? Why do we celebrate it every year inthe church?2. Advent is often referred as the season of the “already” and the “not yet.”What does that mean?3. In what ways does this passage from Isaiah also represent the “already” andthe “not yet”?4. Read Isaiah 9: 2 and John 1: 5 & 9. How do these passages relate to oneanother?5. Why is the “Light” so important? Why do you think some people resist theLight?6. Read Isaiah 9: 6, Luke 2: 10-12 and Luke 1: 32-33. How do these passagesrelate to one another?7. How do these passages from both the Old and New Testaments reinforce theidea of “already” and “not yet” for the Advent season?8. Why do we need “a little Jesus” (baby, child) rather than a big, strong,ruthless warrior king?9. Are you willing to give “a little Jesus” to those who are struggling in life orsimply having a bad day? Why/why not?10. Do you believe a little Jesus can change someone's day, or even their wholelife? Why/why not? (Hint: think about mustard seed of faith)Reflection:Lord Jesus, you are the Light shining in the darkness of this fallen, broken andsinful world. We desperately need your Light and your Love to drive out thedarkness of hate all around us. We know that your love-light can sometimes beoverwhelming to people at first. Remind us to shine your Light gently enough forpeople to first receive it, then brightly enough for them to walk in it. Help us toall walk in your love-light together. And remind us, no matter where we are onour faith journeys, that “Everybody Needs a Little Jesus.” We pray all of this inyour holy, precious and strong name, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Read Hebrews 4: 14-16.1. What does it mean for Jesus to be fully human and fully divine? Why is thisimportant?2. There's an ancient expression that says, “He was as we are, and therefore Hewill help; He was not as we are, and therefore He can.” What does this meanto you?3. What is the word “therefore” there for in today's passage?4. Read Hebrews 4: 13. What does this tell us about our need for Jesus?5. How does the word “therefore” connect our human need with divine mercyand grace?6. Does verse 14 speak primarily about the humanity or divinity of Jesus? Whatabout verse 15?7. In what ways do Jesus' humanity and divinity help us? Why do we need Himto have both of these natures?8. Pastor Mick mentioned the “He Gets Us” ad campaign that has been popularlately. What does it mean when we say “He Gets Us”? How does He “get”us? How do we “get” Him?9. How might today's passage be a good lead-in to the Advent and Christmasseasons? In what ways do we see the humanity and divinity of Jesus duringAdvent and Christmas?10. Next week we begin our Advent series entitled “Everybody Needs a LittleJesus.” How does little Jesus (baby Jesus in the manger) reveal the humanityand divinity of Jesus and our need for him to have both of these natures?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God,Thank you for the gift of Your Son, Jesus the Christ, the Son of man and the Sonof God. Thank you for loving us so much that you would send him from the lightof heaven to the darkness of this world to put on flesh and dwell among us.Thank you for entering your own creation in such a way that you not only relateto us, but save us from ourselves. How comforting it is to know that you get us.Even more comforting is the knowledge that Jesus gave his life to pay the pricefor our sins; a price we could never pay on our own. Forgive us for the timeswhen we might take this for granted. Help us to live lives of gratitude so that wemight give you honor and glory as we invite others to know you as we do. Wepray all of this in the precious, holy and strong name of Jesus, our King of kings,Lord of lords, and Great High Priest. Amen.

Read Malachi 3: 6-10.1. Today's passage begins with God describing the Israelites as “descendants ofJacob.” What is significant about this reference to Jacob? (Hint: rememberlast week's message and Genesis 28: 22)2. Pastor Mick said the Israelites seemed to have some form of spiritualamnesia. What did he mean by that? How do we sometimes struggle withthis same malady today?3. Pastor Mick shared a Tony Campolo story regarding “lowering the blinds.”Why were the blinds lowered? How does this relate to the Israelites nottithing? How do we sometimes “lower the blinds” in our world, too?4. God said the Israelites were robbing Him? In what way were they “robbingGod”? Is the modern church still guilty of this? How do we know?5. God knows that tithing can be a hard concept to embrace. What does He sayto do in such cases? (Hint: this is the only time we're allowed to do this)6. Are you willing to “test God in this”? Why/why not?7. What do you think would happen if everyone “tested God in this”? Whatdoes God say will happen?8. In verse 10 God says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that theremay be food in my house.” What does “food in my house” look like inmodern times?9. Allow yourself to dream a bit. What would you like to see us do at GrandLake UMC if God opened the floodgates of blessing? How can we make thathappen?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God,We come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging all the blessings Youhave so generously poured into our lives. Forgive us for the times we have failedto respond with an attitude of gratitude. Grant us wisdom to discern Your call onour lives to be generous and give us courage to faithfully live it out. In the midstof our fears and doubts, inspire and empower us to “test you” in this, knowingthat if we do, you will bless us beyond measure. Help us, in turn, to use theseblessings to bless others. May we never draw the blinds on those in need, butinstead see them clearly and do all in our power to help them. Remind us that allwe need to do is be faithful to you, and you will be more than faithful to us. Forthis we give you thanks and praise. We pray all of this in the precious, holy andstrong name of Jesus. Amen.

Read Genesis 28: 10-22.1. What does the word stewardship mean? How does it apply to ourfaith lives?2. What does the word tithe mean? Why does God command us totithe?3. Why does Jacob vow to give God a tenth at the end of today'spassage? What can we learn from Jacob in this regard?4. In what ways is tithing more of a spiritual decision than a financialdecision?5. What did Jacob realize when he awoke from his dream?6. How is God present with us today?7. How might the “step up to tithing” chart be another form of stairwaythat connects heaven to earth?8. Read Numbers 18: 21-24. What was God doing in this passage? Howdoes this relate to the way the church is resourced today?9. What do you think about the statement, “God's plan for tithing is notjust about fulfilling a legal obligation, but about recognizing God'sprovision and expressing faithfulness, gratitude and generosity.”?10. Do you have an overall positive or negative feeling toward tithing?Why do you think you feel the way you do about it?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Loving God,We come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging all the blessingsYou have so generously poured into our lives. You are the source of everygood and perfect gift, and we thank You for Your endless provision, love,and grace. Help us to always give with joyful hearts, not out of obligation,but out of an abundance of love and gratitude. Teach us to live lives ofgenerosity, that we may reflect Your character in all we do, and bring gloryto Your name. We trust in Your promises and give thanks for the waysYou will continue to bless and guide us. May we always walk in Yourprovision, knowing that You are our ultimate source of every need.In Jesus' name, Amen.

Read Hebrews 12: 1-3.1. In verse 1, what is the word “therefore,” there for?2. Why is Hebrews chapter 11 sometimes referred to as the Roll Call ofFaith? Look through that chapter and see how many names you canfind.3. What is meant by the “great cloud of witnesses”? Who is in your“cloud” that helps cheer you on in your faith?4. What kinds of things can hinder your faith? How can you preventthem from hindering you?5. What kinds of sin can easily entangle you? What can you do toprevent getting all tangled up?6. What does it mean to fix your eyes on Jesus? How can you best dothat? What happens when you don't?7. What does this passage teach us about the source, and power, of joyin our lives?8. What did Jesus pray from the cross? What can we learn from thisprayer?9. What does the Table (Communion) mean to you? Who is invited tothis Table? Who is present?Prayer for the Week:Almighty God, we thank you for the great cloud of witnesses who camebefore us and help us in our faith. Grant us wisdom to avoid all the thingsthat weigh us down and distract us from Jesus. Fill us with joy, regardlessof circumstances, so that we can endure and persevere in our faith.Inspire and empower us so that we do not grow weary, but always keepthe main thing the main thing. The main thing, of course, is Jesus. Wepray all of this in his precious, holy and strong name. Amen.

1. What does the word “faithful” mean to you? What does it mean forGod to be faithful?2. What does it mean for God to be faithful in his promises? Can youthink of examples in the Bible of God being faithful to his promises?How about in your own life?3. What does it mean for God to be faithful in provision? ReadMatthew 6: 25-34. What does this tell us about God's provisions forlife?4. God is faithful in presence. How was God present in the lives of thosein the Bible? How is God present in your life and the world today?5. Read 1 John 1: 9. What does this tell us about God being faithful inforgiveness? What is required of us? How does the thief on the crossvalidate this truth? (see Luke 23: 32-43)6. What does it mean for God to be faithful in discipline? Why is God'sdiscipline good? (hint: read Hebrews 12: 5-6)7. Read Romans 8: 28. What does this tell us about God being faithfulto his purpose? What does this mean for us in everyday life? Howdoes this give us hope?8. Read Philippians 1: 6. What does this tell us about God's work oftransforming us into what we are created and called to be?9. Does recognizing God's faithfulness in all of these areas help you trustGod more? If so, what impact might that have on your life?Reflection:Almighty God, what can we say, except great is your faithfulness. Evenwhen we are not faithful to you, you remain faithful to us. You keep thepromises you make to us. You provide for us. You are present with us.You discipline us, and forgive us, and transform us, all in accordance withyour ultimate purpose for us. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your faithful-ness. Remind us that we can trust your goodness in all areas of our livesbecause you are always faithful. Help us, in turn, to be more faithful toyou. Help us to live the way you created us to live, so that we might trulychange the world through your love and power. We pray all of this in thestrong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,One God, now and forever. Amen.