4th Sunday of Epiphany 2024
Reflection Summary
This reflection explores the significance of two Bible passages and their lessons for our lives. The first passage emphasizes the importance of listening to authority figures who align with Christ’s teachings. The second passage highlights the need for personal change and repentance. Additionally, we are reminded to trust in God’s timing and sovereignty, even when we question the relevance of certain circumstances. Finally, the sermon emphasizes the importance of upholding our baptismal commitment by continuously growing in faith and living out the transformative power of Christ.
Please note that I am on leave and between Parishes. I will endeavour to keep the reflections going!
Ice Breaker
If you were a famous inventor, what fun or outrageous invention would you want to be known for?
Discussion Questions 💬
- How can we effectively listen to and learn from spiritual authority figures in our lives?
- In Mark 1:21-28, the people were astonished by the authority and wisdom of Jesus’ teachings.
- Can you recall a time when you were influenced or inspired by the teachings of a spiritual authority figure, and how it impacted your faith?
- Why is recognizing the need for change and transformation essential in our spiritual journey?
- The encounter with the unclean spirit in Mark 1:21-28 highlights the contrast between darkness and Christ’s light, prompting us to reflect on areas of our lives needing change.
- What are some specific areas in your life where you feel called to change or grow spiritually?
- How can we trust in God’s timing and sovereignty even when we might not understand certain situations or challenges?
- In John 2, Jesus questions the relevance of the wine shortage at the Cana wedding but performs his first public miracle, reminding us of God’s ability to work wonders in unexpected ways.
- Can you share a personal experience where trusting in God’s timing and plan led to a positive outcome or growth in your life?
- What are some practical ways we can uphold our baptismal commitment in our daily lives?
- The sermon stresses the importance of living according to God’s Word and continuously growing in our faith journey.
- How can you be more intentional about incorporating your commitment to Christ into your everyday actions and decisions?
- How can we develop a genuine and humble attitude when approaching ou lives when they align with the teachings of Christ.
- Context: The sermon encourages us to approach our spiritual journey with openness, humility, and a desire to live out the transformative power of Christ.
- Application Question: What are some specific practices or habits that you can implement to cultivate a humble and open heart in your relationship with God?
- Pray for the wisdom to discern truth and divine wisdom when they come our way.
- • Pray for the courage to recognize and face areas of our lives that need transformation. Ask God for His strength to help us find freedom from the bondage of sin through sincere repentance and a commitment to change.
- • Pray for patience and trust in God’s timing, even when we question the significance of certain circumstances or challenges. Ask for faith that God can work wonders when we surrender to His will and timing. • Pray for a renewed commitment to our baptismal promises. Ask God for the strength and perseverance to conti Christ.
- • Pray for the courage to recognize and reflect on the areas of their lives that need transformation, asking God for the power to expel any ‘unclean spirits’ or sins that have taken hold, and for the commitment to sincere repentance and change.
- • Seek God’s guidance in trusting His timing and sovereignty, even in situations or challenges that might initially seem insignificant or irrelevant. Pray for the openness to see how God can work wonders when they surrender to His will and timing.
- • Finally, ask for God’s help to uphold the baptismal commitment each member has made. Pray for the strength to follow Christ, renounce sin, and live according to God’s Word, and for the grace to continuously grow in their faith journey.
Breaking Open 