God’s request of Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac seems cruel from our modern perspective. Yet Abraham’s obedience rendered divine blessings. Do you think you have such depth of faith?
Paul tries to reassure the Christians in Rome of God’s divine providence in our lives. As we continue the Lenten journey, can you recall when have you felt God’s protection and comfort?
We hear Mark’s account of the apostles’ witness of the transfiguration of Jesus. How difficult do you think it was for them not to share this event with anyone until after Jesus rose from the dead?
God promises Noah to use a “bow in the clouds” (a rainbow) as a sign and symbol of His divine pledge to never again allow a world-wide flood to devastate the earth. This is the Bible’s first recorded covenant between God and humanity. What do you think of when you see a rainbow?
Peter teaches that Jesus preached to both the living and the dead — those dead dating back to the days of Noah — and connecting us through baptism. What do you find intriguing about this idea?
We hear about Jesus’ temptation in the desert and his inaugural gospel message to those living in Galilee. Jesus saw repentance as necessary to believe his good news. As we begin the Lenten journey, what aspects of your life require repentance?
Ancient Israel isolated those with leprosy fearing the disease would spread to others. In what way can this be seen as a form of compassion?
Paul places a high value on avoiding unnecessary conflict. Why do you think this is an important virtue for a Christian?
The man healed of leprosy disobeyed Jesus’ command not to share with others what had happened. Why do you think the man did so?
We hear how Job struggled to find meaning and hope in his life. How does your faith help you get through difficult times in your life?
Paul speaks of his singular desire to preach the “gospel” (the Good News of Jesus Christ). When do you share the gospel message with others?
We learn that from the beginning of his public ministry Jesus was very purpose-driven: healing the sick and preaching the good news. How intentional is the practice of faith in your daily life?
Moses taught the Israelites that God would send prophets to assist them in knowing His will. Why do you think people so often reject the prophetic message?
Paul speaks of the inevitability of anxiety in life. How does your faith assist you in handling what makes you anxious?
In the story of the healing of a demon-possessed man, Mark reports how the demons knew Jesus’ true identity as “the Holy One of God.” What does this reveal about the unseen order?