ISSL Reflections August 13 2023 Romans 14:10–23 Post 3

VII.Today listen as Paul tells us – “For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. The one who serves Christ in this way is acceptable to God and … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 13 2023 Romans 14:10–23 Post 2

IV.Paul told the church at Rome, “resolve … never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother or sister.” Hold that thought in mind as you read this passage. V.Romans 14:10-23 (NRSVue) Why do you … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 13 2023 Romans 14:10–23 Post 1

I.Paul asks us to not “pass-judgment on” or “despise” our sisters and brothers. Read over these verses several times and take note of the ways in which we might be “passing-judgment” or “despising” our sisters and brothers. II.Romans 14:10-23 (NRSVue) … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 6 2023 Galatians 5:13–26 – Post 3

VII.Let’s take another look at this passage and take special note of the way (and ways) freedom can be expressed by those who are part of the Christian community. VIII.Galatians 5:13-26 (NRSVue) For you were called to freedom, brothers and … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 6 2023 Galatians 5:13–26 – Post 2

IV.In contrasting the freedom that comes as we “live by the Spirit” and experience “the fruit of the Spirit” Paul admonishes us not to “bite and devour one another.” In reflecting on Paul’s cautions to us, notice how he draws … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections August 6 2023 Galatians 5:13–26 – Post 1

I.Let’s take our cue for our reflections this week from the opening words of this Scripture passage – “For you were called to freedom … enslaved to one another” As you read this passage, take note of what this freedom, … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 30 2023 Matthew 13:44–52 Post 3

VII.If you had been with Jesus’ listeners that day, how would you have answered his question, “Have you understood all this?” With the “Yes” of the listeners or maybe with the silence of not knowing how to answer or maybe … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 30 2023 Matthew 13:44–52 Post 2

IV.In another mention of treasure (Matthew 19:21-22) Jesus tells a young man who had many possessions, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 30 2023 Matthew 13:44–52 Post 1

I.This week we are still in Matthew 13 and still hearing about the Kingdom of Heaven/God. We have four parables to consider. As you spend time with these stories from Jesus, consider what is common in each and what is … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 23 2023 Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43 Post 3

VII.Do you think we should devote some attention to what Jesus says about “… the harvest [at] the end of the age, and the reapers are angels”? Is that promise reassuring to you or do you perceive it as a … Continue reading