THIS WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE

Why do we memorize God’s word? Jesus memorized scripture and He also invites us to this practice for the purpose of renewing our minds and transforming our lives. Memorizing scripture helps us know who God is and His will for us, see the world through His eyes, fight temptation, live in obedience, share the Gospel message and enjoy a hidden life with Christ.

Psalm 37:7

“Be still before the Lord

and wait patiently for Him.”

Choose to spend a few minutes each day reciting the verse above, allowing its truth to shape your thoughts and heart. Write it out. Put it on your bathroom mirror, your fridge or car dashboard. Be With Jesus by letting his Word live in you.

personal reflection & small group materials

Anchor Scripture: Luke 10:38-42

Mary sits at the feet of Jesus. She intentionally chooses to Be With Jesus, even when there are other pragmatic tasks at hand.

"As Jesus and his disciples went on their way, Jesus entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."

Small Group Intro Week 1

Reflection and Small Group Questions

Use the lectio divina practice to reflect upon the anchor scripture. Read the passage out loud and slowly three time. Pause between each recitation for a few moments. After reading the passage ask: "What words or ideas stood out to you? Why?"

Put yourself in the place of both Mary and Martha. What were they feeling? What were their desires in that moment? In what ways do you relate to both?

What did Jesus confront Martha about? Was it what she was doing or the way in which she was doing it?

What is the “one thing” or the “better part” that Mary has chosen?

For you personally, what attitude, idea, or practice can you apply from this passage to help you to “be with Jesus” in your own life?

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE

This week, consider trying out the practice of solitude and silence to Be With Jesus in an intentional way. Take 10 minutes each day to listen to the Spirit. Create a space of solitude and silence in your day.

• Sit on your couch or a chair, light a candle and put all screens aside.

• Invite Jesus to speak to your heart, mind and spirit.

• Be silent

• Recenter thoughts with "Jesus I am here"

• Breathe deeply and listen

OTHER PRACTICES

• Spend time in nature

• Gather with friends at the side altar at church for silence after church