Grace
To grow closer to and more like Jesus using spiritual disciplines and increase simplicity in lifestyle.
Readings
Devotion 1
Wait: Spend some time waiting on God, letting God reshape your heart and vision.
Read: John 14:1-14
The discipleship community is shattered by the news of imminent betrayal from within (13:21). In this context, Jesus gives a new command: “Love one another as I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Then, after further news that Peter will deny Jesus, he exhorts them: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” What a challenge given the storm that the discipleship community is facing! Jesus goes on to tell them of the way they might do this: Trust in God; trust also in me.”
These disciples, who now may well be unsure about who they can trust within their community, are told, “trust in God.” It is in this way, and this way only that they might love one another.
Ask:
- What strikes you in today’s reading?
- In what ways are you challenged or encouraged by Jesus words to “Trust in God, trust also in me?
Share:
- Share communion
- Pray for one another.
Devotion 2
Wait: Take time to sit in silence together, aware of the presence of God’s Spirit.
Read: John 14:15-31
Ask:
- What strikes you in today’s reading?
- How might we live out today’s reading?
Share: Communion
Pray:
- End with the Lord’s prayer
Devotion 3
Wait: Spend some time waiting on God.
“Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”
Wait: Spend some time waiting on God.
Read: John 15:1-17 as a Lectio Divina.
1) Have one person read the verses through twice.
2) Speak out any words or phrases that stand out to you.
3) Read through the verses again.
4) What thoughts, feelings, and impressions do you sense? Share them.
5) Read the verses a final time.
6) What challenges or encouragements emerge? Share them with the group.
Share:
- Communion
Pray:
- End with the Lord’s Prayer.
Devotion 4
Wait: Spend some time waiting on God.
Read: John 15:18-25 as a Lectio Divina.
Share:
- Communion
Pray:
- Spend time praying for each of those present in the room and for the wider UNOH team.
- End with the Lord’s Prayer.