Questions for November 18, 2012

 Interruptions!

Mark 13:1-8

13As he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!’ ²Then Jesus asked him, ‘Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.’

3 When he was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, ⁴‘Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?’ ⁵Then Jesus began to say to them, ‘Beware that no one leads you astray. ⁶Many will come in my name and say, “I am he!” and they will lead many astray. ⁷When you hear of wars and rumours of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is still to come. ⁸For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This is but the beginning of the birth pangs.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we give thanks for the gift of your Son, Jesus.  We pray that we would strive to be more like him in every way and to be the reflection of Christ’s love to our neighbors and friends… AND for those who annoy us.  Give us a new appreciation for living life in the moment, not worrying about the future, and trusting you no matter what.  In Jesus name.  AMEN.

Grist for the Mill

1. Martin Luther was once asked, “What would you do today if you knew tomorrow Christ would return and the world as we know it came to an end.”  His response was- “Plant a tree”.  What do you think he meant?  How would you respond to that question?
2. Do you have a Bucket List?  If so, share some of the items with the group.  If not, think of some things you would want to do or accomplish before you die.
3. When you hear or read about the “end times” are your first thoughts of Christ’s return a promise or threat?  Why?
4. How do you handle interruptions to your schedule and plans?  How does (or can) your faith help shape your response to the interruptions of life?
5. Spend some time sharing with your group about experiences you’ve had with friends or loved ones who have died.  What did they find helpful in those “last few days”.  Did it make a difference if death was sudden and unexpected or the result of an extended illness?  What impact did it have on your life?  On your faith?

Close your session by praying for the person on your right and ending with the Lord’s Prayer.