the_hospitable_neighbor.mp4

PRAY:

Have someone read Deuteronomy 6:4-9 aloud (or divide it between your group). After you read it, spend a minute or two silently reflecting on the passage. Then spend some time praying as a group for anything that this passage draws to your mind or stirs up in your heart.

ONE ANOTHERING:

Try to think of some practical needs you can share to give others the opportunity to step up and love you. It's okay if it takes some time to get comfortable with this. It takes time and practice to be vulnerable with one another... but amazing things happen when we are. Remember that the Benevolence Ministry is a resource for our comGroups.

  • How can we love or serve one another this week?

FOLLOW UP:

  • Did you have an opportunity to walk around your neighborhood this week? How was that experience?
  • Did you encounter any interruptions this week? How did you respond to those?

READ:

John 1:35-42


SHARE:

  • What stands out to you as you read this story?
  • Why do you think John's disciples left to follow Jesus? What is the significance of "the Lamb of God" (see John 1:29)?
  • Consider the way John speaks about Jesus, and the effect it has on his disciples. Can you recall someone who has had a significant impact on your understanding of Jesus? What did this person do to impact you?

“Come and see!”


  • What do you think of Jesus' response to the disciples?
  • What does it look like to invite others to "come and see" into our lives?
  • Why do you think inviting others to "come and see" into our lives can be so powerful?
  • What challenges or fears come to mind about inviting others to "come and see" into our lives?

“You are only as hospitable to others as you believe God is to you”


  • Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?
  • How would you put this statement into your own words?

“Come and see!”


  • Do you find it difficult to be transparent and honest before God? Why do you think that is?
  • Share as much or as little as you are comfortable with. Is there a specific area of your life that you are afraid to invite God into?
  • How do you feel about inviting God to "come and see" into your life (fear, relief, anxiety, peace...)?
  • What good do you think might come from inviting God to "come and see" into every area of your life?

PRACTICE:

Set aside a few moments each day this week to reflect on these words with God.

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! - Psalm 139:23-24

PRAY:

End your time by having someone read Matthew 22:37-39 aloud. Spend some time silently reflecting on this passage before you close in prayer.