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Growing Together in God’s Word
Daily Companion Bible Study
January & February 2021Growing Together in God’s Word
Churchwide Bible Study
In 2021 we will embark on a year-long biblical journey together using the Daily Companion
Bible edition of the Common English Bible. The Common English Bible, a fresh translation to
touch the heart and mind, is designed to make God’s word more accessible for 21st-century
English speakers like us.
This edition features daily devotionals arranged in weekly biblical topics. Each weekday we’ll
read a few specially-selected biblical texts, along with a daily reflection and questions. Our
aim is to interact with the Bible, explore what it meant then and now, and apply God’s Word
to everyday life.
Our Sunday sermons and worship themes will be keyed to the weekly topics, and the daily
devotionals will be available on our website, by email, or you can pick up a printed copy at the
church. We also encourage everyone to purchase their own copy of the Common English
Bible translation. By reading the same passages and reflections together each week, our
whole congregation will grow toward becoming the Body of Christ God is calling us to be.
You’re invited to join us on this biblical journey as we grow together in our Christian faith and
our understanding of God’s Word.
Rev. Mike Morgan
Senior Pastor
2Growing Together in God’s Word
Sunday, January 3, 2021—Reading the Bible
“The Bible Tells Us So”
2 Timothy 3:15-17 (CEB); Hebrews 4:12-13 (CEB)
Every scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching,
for showing mistakes, for correcting, and for training character,
so that the person who belongs to God
can be equipped to do everything that is good. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (CEB)
Sunday, January 10, 2021—Prayer
“The Power of the Prayer Paradox”
Matthew 6:7-15 (CEB); Luke 11:9-10 (CEB)
Everyone who asks, receives. Whoever seeks, finds.
To everyone who knocks, the door is opened. Luke 11:10 (CEB)
Sunday, January 17, 2021—Community
“The Beloved Community”
Acts 2:42-47 (CEB)
The believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the community,
to their shared meals, and to their prayers. All the believers were united and shared everything.
They praised God and demonstrated God’s goodness to everyone.
The Lord added daily to the community those who were being saved. Acts 2:42, 44, 47 (CEB)
Sunday, January 24, 2021—Serving
“Serving Like the Master”
Philippians 2:1-11 (CEB)
If I, your Lord and teacher, have washed your feet, you too must wash each other’s feet.
I have given you an example: just as I have done, you also must do. John 13:14-15 (CEB)
Sunday, January 31, 2021—Stewardship
“Treasure Hunting”
Matthew 6:19-24 (CEB)
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:21 (CEB)
3Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK ONE: READING THE BIBLE
The Bible Tells Me So
Monday, December 28
Daily Reading: Deuteronomy 8:1-11; Matthew 4:1-11; John 5:36-47; 2 Timothy 2:15
The song “Jesus Loves Me” communicates an innocent truth – Jesus loves us, and we know
this to be true because the Bible says so. The Bible shows us God’s character. Repeatedly we
read that God loved God’s people and made a way for them when they rebelled against God.
God is always about the work of redemption. The scriptures also show God as Creator. The
Bible tells of a God who created beautiful things, even us. It tells us God is always working,
moving, and wooing us to relationship. Through the Bible, we learn to listen for God’s call. It
tells us who we are and to whom we belong. When we get lost in this world or just in our
own heads, we can find words of hope in the Bible that point to the all-consuming love of
God.
Jesus knew this well. He used scripture to teach, reiterate prophesy, challenge systems, and
inspire a more meaningful understanding of the Father. He undid the misperception of
scripture as a rigid belief system made up of dos and don’ts that bring judgment and division.
Jesus presented scripture as alive and transformational. He pointed to one central message –
that Jesus is God’s plan for the redemption of the world. Jesus is the path to a relationship
with God.
Reflection
What does God promise when we follow instructions written in the Bible?
When has a scripture come alive for you in hard situations, temptations, or trials? How would
you describe that experience?
Prayer
Lord, bring your word to life for us and let us see ourselves in your great story of love and
redemption. Speak to us as we seek you. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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4Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK ONE: READING THE BIBLE
Letting the Bible Read Us
Tuesday, December 29
Daily Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6–16; Psalm 119:1–16
With various literary styles and messages in the Bible, you might wonder how you are
supposed to understand what the biblical writers were trying to communicate. As we choose
a life with God and open our hearts to Jesus, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit living in
us. The Spirit speaks to us as we study and pray through the scriptures. Our openness and
willingness to listen may change, but the Spirit is waiting to give us understanding and
wisdom.
To gain deeper Knowledge of God, we must devote ourselves to Bible reading expecting to
understand as we let the Bible read us. We let the stories and the teachings speak into our
lives. We find our place in this grand narrative of God’s love. If we want to understand the
Bible, first we have to read it regularly. We have to make the time and space to read it well.
Second, we have to pray. We need the Spirit to whisper or speak quite loudly at times as the
stories we read in the Bible speak to our situations, culture, and world. Finally, we need to
hide it in our hearts by memorizing passages and remembering themes and details that point
us to the heart of God.
Reflection
How does the Holy Spirit help you understand the Bible?
What does Psalm 119 say about how reading the Bible can transform your life?
Do you mostly read with your head or your heart? How could you find a middle way?
Prayer
Lord, give me new insight as I read your holy words. Transform every part of my life until I take
on your character and grace. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK ONE: READING THE BIBLE
Finding Your Way in the Bible
Wednesday, December 30
Daily Reading: 2 Timothy 3:10-17; James 1:19-25; Psalm 119:105
The fact that you are reading a devotional Bible suggest you may be one who desires a
meaningful life, filled with purpose and blessing. You may seek to live the life God created you
to live. But as we go about our business, we often do things our way and check in with God
only when we need it or when we’re unsure about something. Sometimes we do such a good
job of going it alone that we leave God out altogether.
When we react to life instead of seeking God’s will every step of the way, we lose our focus,
our grounding, our purpose and sometimes our way. The Bible is a light for our path. As we
look to the scriptures daily, we can reflect on how they speak to our current situations,
thoughts, and dreams; imagine where our lives are headed; seek to be in line with God’s will;
and make adjustments when necessary. Just as a dark space is lit up by the small flame of one
candle, scripture illuminates God’s will for our lives and helps us see things we don’t see on
our own. The Bible tells us our story. And as we search scripture, we discover who we are,
where we came from, and who will guide our future.
Reflection
What purpose does Bible study have in the life of a believer?
How would you describe your current Bible study routine?
Look into the mirror of your life. What needs adjustment? What is God revealing to you
about your life direction?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the gift of scripture. Give me diligence as I seek to know you more and
more through daily Bible study. Reveal your heart to me and show me your will. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK ONE: READING THE BIBLE
Get the Most out of Bible Study
Thursday, December 31
Daily Reading: 2 Kings 22:1-23:25
We get out of any practice what we put into it. If we want to run a marathon but only run a
few miles here or there, we’ll most likely crash and burn on the course. The same is true for
Bible study. If we want to discover more about God, God’s will, God’s heart, and the things
God cares about; if we want to feel equipped to speak about our faith and share that faith
with others; or discover our place in God’s great story, then we have to devote ourselves to
the practice of Bible reading. We can’t expect to see a lot of growth in ourselves without first
immersing ourselves in the Bible.
Today’s daily reading shows us a time when the Israelites had disregarded the scriptures over
the course of many years. The people lost all touch with the story of their heritage, their laws,
their character, and their God. Then, like discovering an ancient treasure, King Josiah
happened upon the scriptures. He read every word and was so compelled he put them back
at the center of community life in Judah and renewed the covenant with God.
Reflection
List some adjectives that describe how King Josiah might have felt after discovering the
sacred texts.
What did you do in response to hearing the scriptures for the first time?
What in your life needs to be cleaned out in order to live according to the scriptures?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the grace that gives me a chance to start over when I have lost touch with
you. I know you haven’t gone anywhere, but I turned away. Help me ground myself in regular
Bible reading and stay close to your Word. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK ONE: READING THE BIBLE
Change Comes
Friday, January 1
Daily Reading: Mark 4:1-20; Deuteronomy 30:11-20; Hebrews 4:12-13
While we don’t necessarily study the Bible for results, we can be sure as we read the Bible
there will be changes in our lives. Jesus tells us we will see the fruit of our efforts only if we
plant ourselves firmly in him. We read scripture to draw near to God, let the words speak to
our current situations; learn what a life with God looks like, and expose the wrongdoing in our
lives. We read scripture, because we must know our faith in order to fully live a faithful life.
As you consider what changes may be needed in your own life, imagine how the scriptures
could give you clarity, instruction, and inspiration as you seek that change. God speaks
through the scriptures about who God desires for us to be and what God desires our lives to
be about. Gradually, we’ll sense more purpose in our daily lives; see our old, bad habits go
away and be replaced by habits that reflect God’s will; and become more and more like Christ.
Reflection
Why were three of the seeds mentioned in Mark 4 incapable of producing fruit? What was
the result of the hearing and accepting the word (the seed)?
Is the full obedience mentioned in Deuteronomy achievable? Why or why not?
What results do you hope to see in your life as you study the Bible?
Prayer
Lord, your word is precious to me. Help me seek you in the scriptures. Draw near to me. Plant
me firmly in your word and change my heart. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK TWO: PRAYER
Jesus Teaches Us How to Pray
Monday, January 4
Daily Reading: Luke 11:1-11; Matthew 6:5-15
Repeatedly we read about Jesus going off to pray to his father. This was not by accident. He
modeled a connectedness to God through prayer. Jesus had an intimate relationship with God
and received his strength, power, and resolve from those times in prayer. His disciples
wondered how he could give so much time to prayer. They saw the needs right before them
and didn’t understand how Jesus could walk away to pray or stay up all night praying.
At one point, they approached him and asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Jesus was gentle and
loving, giving specific instructions and even words to pray. Those instructions still hold true
today. Jesus’ words teach us to pray vertically---to God whose name is sacred, revered, and
holy; to pray horizontally---for the kingdom to come on earth; for our physical needs to be
met; sins to be forgiven; and that we guard against temptation. Then Jesus’ words set it all in
context. He says we are only forgiven as much as we are willing to forgive.
Reflection
The two scripture readings give slightly different versions of Jesus’ instructions on prayer.
Make some notes from both passages, noting any differences or similarities.
How do the instructions help you in your daily prayer life?
What does knowing even Jesus had to get away from it all to pray teach you about the
significance of prayer in your own life?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for wanting to be in conversation with me. Thank you for teaching me to pray.
Guide me to make the time and stir within me a desire to spend time with you each day.
Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK TWO: PRAYER
The Goal of Prayer
Tuesday, January 5
Daily Reading: Luke 18:1-8; Genesis 18:16-33; John 17:1-16; Matthew 26:36-46
In all of life we are taught results-based effort. We work hard for a certain outcome, set a goal
and mark its achievement. Everything in the natural world is based on cause and effect, so it’s
natural for us to desire immediate results from our prayers. We want to know what’s in it for
us. But, prayer is not based on getting ahead or even what we get out of it.
Ultimately, prayer creates an intimate connection between you and God. In prayer, we submit
our thoughts, our hearts, and our wills to seek God’s thoughts, heart, and will. Prayer is about
surrender, humility, and aligning with God’s heart and will. We pray to be in constant
conversation with God, put ourselves in the middle of grace, and change our minds from
selfish desires to God’s desires for our lives. Jesus modeled this kind of sacrificial prayer when
he prayed from the cross. He prayed for his followers and to surrender his very life to God’s
greater purpose.
Reflection
What in today’s daily reading help you think about perseverance in prayer?
What does it mean to be in alignment with God’s will?
Jesus prayed “not what I want but what you want.” How can you live out this prayer in your
own life?
Prayer
God, all too often I pray because of what I hope to get out of it. Help me not approach prayer
or you as a consumer or as a worker, but as your humble child. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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10Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK TWO: PRAYER
Where Two or Three are Gathered
Wednesday, January 6
Daily Reading: Matthew 18:18-20; Acts 12:1-19
After Jesus ascended to heaven, his disciples were left to take the reins of the ministry he had
called them to. Confronted with a monumental task, the disciples devoted themselves to
prayer. They had seen the way Jesus prayed, heard his teachings on prayer. Now it was up to
them to commit to a life of prayer. In doing so, they prayed together remembering Jesus’
instruction that “where two or three are gathered in my name, I’m there with them.” So they
began a life of prayer, expecting Jesus would do amazing things through them.
When believers gather to pray, whether in small groups or in worship, we join our hearts with
a common purpose---invoking God’s power, grace, faithfulness, and will. God created us for
interdependence. God’s life of faith was not meant to be a solo project. We need each other.
Prayer binds us together in a common purpose, and we see God do great things among us.
Reflection
Jesus instructed his followers that praying together brings about miraculous results. What is
the power in group prayer?
How has God surprised you by miraculous answers to prayer?
Who are your prayer partners?
How can you give yourself more fully to praying with other believers?
Prayer
Lord, surround us with good friends who will be prayer partners in life. Thank you for coming
among us when we gather to seek you. Give us diligence to make time for praying together
with other believers. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK TWO: PRAYER
Confidence in Prayer
Thursday, January 7
Daily Reading: Luke 5:12-16, 6:12-29, 9:18-36; Mark 11:12-24; James 4:2-10
Often when we pray, we walk away wondering “what if it doesn’t work?” “What if I don’t get
the outcome I hope for?” Or, “How can I be sure my prayers will be answered?” We easily fall
prey to the notion that if our effort is intense enough or if our words are poetic and beautiful
enough, we will get the desired results. However, that is not the definition of prayer.
Jesus repeatedly sought God in prayer before making big decisions, before major ministry
moments, and for miracles. He didn’t come to the Father timidly, but with confidence that his
prayers would be answered and God’s will would be done. Jesus believed God wouldn’t leave
him helpless. Jesus knew prayer wasn’t a means to get what he wanted but aligned him to
God’s will and put him in the middle of God’s work in the world. We can have that same
confidence in prayer when we seek with pure hearts, forgive others, and trust God with the
results of our prayers whether or not we get the answer we want.
Reflection
In today’s reading, what did God do as a result of Jesus’ prayers?
What difficult decisions do you have to make right now? How can these scriptures speak to
your prayers about these issues?
What do you find the most challenging about prayer?
Prayer
Lord, I want to align with your will. I want to be about your will and not my own. But I also
want what I want. As I bring my difficult decisions to you, guide me to have confidence that
you will answer---and help me receive your answer. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK TWO: PRAYER
When We Don’t Pray
Friday, January 8
Daily Reading: Daniel 4:19-37; 2 Chronicles 7:14
God doesn’t need us to pray in order to act. But prayer opens us to and aligns us with God’s
will. Avoiding prayer or not praying altogether keeps us from the joy of living fully in the
presence of God. When we don’t pray, we lose our spiritual senses. The old hymn “Come
Thou fount” says that we are “prone to wonder.” Prayer keeps our wandering souls close to
God. When we think we can get by without prayer, we soon realize just how much we need
that connectedness to God.
Today’s daily reading tells the story of King Nebuchadnezzar. He was a prideful king who didn’t
believe he needed to pray to God or even pay attention to God. But Daniel’s faith in God and
belief in the power of prayer brought King Nebuchadnezzar to believe in God and prayer.
Reflection
King Nebuchadnezzar’s whole life changed when he began to pray. Describe the
transformation in his life.
Daniel’s whole life reflected a belief that God would hear his prayers and act on his behalf.
What does Daniel teach you about prayer?
What keeps you from prayer?
How does prayer keep you from wandering away from God?
Prayer
Lord, I am prone to wander indeed. Help me learn from Daniel that when I put my firm trust
in you, you will act in my life. Give me eyes to see you move. Give me the faith to pray. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK THREE: COMMUNITY
We Were Made for Community
Monday, January 11
Daily Reading: 1 John 1:1-10; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Whether we’re shy or the life of the party, each of us has a built-in desire for relationship. We
have this innate sense of community—a need to be with people. It isn’t something based on
personality type or inclination. It’s something in our DNA, put there by our Creator. God
created us to be in relationship with God and other people. God is even revealed to us as a
community through the Father, Spirit, and Son relationship. God’s very nature is relationship.
Likewise, our very nature is meant for relationship, both with God and with a Christian
community. When we say yes to a life with Jesus, we join a community of believers centered
on love for God and passion for the Great Commission. First John defines what it looks like to
have fellowship with God---to live in the light, and the fellowship of believers is a community
that lives in that light. That is the mark of true fellowship with God. The author wrote an
invitation for the reader to join the fellowship. In the same way, Christian community today
can live in the light of God and lead others to fellowship with God.
Reflection
Have you ever felt drawn to Christian community? Why?
Why is it important to belong to a fellowship of believers?
What do these communities have in common?
What is at the heart of Christian community?
Prayer
God, I am so grateful that you desire a relationship with me. Help me to anchor my life with
you in your church. Make me vulnerable and humble as I join in fellowship with other
believers. Strengthen me to share your love to the ends of the earth. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK THREE: COMMUNITY
Growing in Community
Tuesday, January 12
Daily Reading: Acts 2:29-47; Hebrews 10:19-25, 3:12-13; Galatians 6:1-2
In its early days, the church community struggled to figure out what to do without Jesus
physically walking among them. Peter’s first sermon laid out what was required to join the
community. But once people were baptized, they had to figure out how to live their faith.
From the beginning, they knew it was important to stay connected for support
encouragement, and inspiration. They had a great task—to make disciples of the whole world.
To do so, they had to depend on one another, and devote themselves to prayer and worship.
Their devotion strengthened their faith and the community.
The saying there is strength in numbers is undoubtedly true for the life of faith. We may trick
ourselves into believing we can nurture our faith on our own. But the truth is we were not
created to be Lone Rangers. We were created for relationship, and God called a community of
believers to change the world. No matter how strong we think we are, we’ll always be
stronger together.
Reflection
What would your life look like if you were devoted to a community where Bible study,
fellowship, and prayer were of utmost importance?
What, if anything, is keeping you from being in this kind of community?
Why is it easier to focus on God when we’re surrounded by other believers?
Prayer
Lord, you made people for community. Help me to be vulnerable, real, and committed. Bless
the community to which I belong and give us a shared vision of how together, we can change
the world. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK THREE: COMMUNITY
But They Might be Different...
Wednesday, January 13
Daily Reading: I Corinthians 12:12-27 CEB; 1 John 4:7-21
When the disciples asked Jesus what the greatest commandment was, he told them that
every other instruction falls under the call to love---God and one another. All around the
world, Christians should be known by their love. Of course, this isn’t always the case because
loving others is hard work, even for those committed to Jesus. We’re still human with very
human feelings. When we feel defensive, offended, hurt, or even just mildly annoyed, it’s easy
to forget we’re all imperfect, but loved creations of a loving God.
When we consider that each of us is made in God’s own image, loving each other takes on a
whole new dimension. Then, we have eyes to see the gifts in each other and find we all have a
place in God’s community. We can be annoyed at our differences or celebrate God’s unique
design for each person. The choice is up to us. In true community we acknowledge and
celebrate our differences. It’s where we humble ourselves, become vulnerable real, and open
to what we can learn from others---where we live and work and worship.
Reflection
Why are we so different from one another?
Why do we need each other?
How can we be in community with difficult or hard-to-love people?
Prayer
Lord, it’s hard to be in community. It’s hard to love people I don’t like and to stick it out when
my feelings are hurt. Help me to forgive as you forgave me. Help me to love as you love me.
Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK THREE: COMMUNITY
The Work of the Community
Thursday, January 14
Daily Reading: Philippians 1:3-11, 2:1-4
Once a community of believers has devoted themselves to prayer, study, teaching, and
worship; to being real and accepting of one another; and to demonstrating the love of Christ
at all cost; the next step is serving others. Belonging to a community builds us up, keeps us
accountable strengthens our discipleship, and is essential for personal growth; but as we seek
those things in community, we need to look for the fruit of our effort in order to become true
community.
As we join with others in community, we are also called to partner with God to be the hands
and feet of Jesus in the world. The church has a mission—to make disciples across the whole
earth. We take part in the redemption of the world by sharing the love of Jesus with people
everywhere. To be sure; God doesn’t need us to do that work. But God chose to let us be the
carriers of God’s love. “We are the church together,” the old song goes. Together, we are
called to take the gospel of Jesus to the ends of the earth.
Reflection
What does it mean to you to be partners with God?
What do other partnerships in your life look like?
If we are partners with God, what role do you play in the partnership? What role does God
play?
Prayer
Lord, I know you don’t need me to do anything, but you invite each of your children into the
work of bringing your kingdom. I am honored to have a part to play. Help me to be your
church---alive and on fire in this world. Give me work to do and the courage, strength, and
vision to see it through. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK THREE: COMMUNITY
Mighty Works
Friday, January 15
Daily Reading: Ephesians 3:14-4:6; Acts 4:31-35
As a Christian community, our partnership with God releases God’s miraculous power in us.
God’s kingdom building is the work of building community, and God called the church to that
work. Today’s reading reminds us that God, through the church, is able to do far beyond all
we could ever ask or imagine. Often we don’t even know what we’re asking for. We want to
be used; we want to be available; we want to be open to whatever God has for us. But, we
don’t always know where God will lead us.
Part of the excitement of belonging to the body of Christ is participating in the impossible to
imagine the work of God in the world. We are called to be partners in bringing God’s kingdom
to earth. We won’t always see a clear path, but we can be sure God has a part for each of us
to play. The early church was convinced that God called them to be that kind of daring
community. They sold possessions when they needed to help someone. They lived selflessly
and were dedicated to the belief that God would move and they needed to be ready when
God called them to a task. The church is still called to this today.
Reflection
How does God’s love encourage you?
What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
What would your church look like if everyone were filled with the Holy Spirit?
What do you think God has in store for your community?
Prayer
Lord, fill me with the Holy Spirit and set me on fire with passion to take your gospel to the
ends of the earth. Show me what you would have me do even today. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK FOUR: SERVING
Getting Dirty
Monday, January 18
Daily Reading: John 13:1-17
At the heart of a life of following Jesus is service. Jesus used just about every opportunity he
could to teach people that the heart of his message is to live out God’s love toward others.
The communities Jesus walked through were set up in a hierarchy of classes. The poor stayed
with the poor; sinners hung with other sinners; the sick stayed together and away from
everyone else. The religious people stuck together and didn’t intermingle with outsiders.
Service would have been lived out only in a master/servant relationship. However, Jesus
turned that idea upside down.
Jesus was God’s Son. But instead of acting important and expecting others to wait on him, he
became a servant. As Jesus approached his final hours on earth, he made sure the disciples
understood his command to serve others. Jesus modeled the behavior he expected when he
became the servant and washed their feet, the same feet that were covered in dirt after
walking dusty roads in sandals. Jesus had to take a humble posture in order to perform this
act. He sat at their feet and got his hands dirty, humbling himself to demonstrate the true
meaning of service.
Reflection
Why did Jesus want to wash the disciples’ feet?
What did Jesus mean by telling the disciples to wash others’ feet?
How can you wash the feet of others in your life?
Who needs your acts of service right now?
Prayer
Lord, help me to serve as you served, to love as you loved, and to sacrifice as you sacrificed.
Show me how I can be a servant to those around me. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK FOUR: SERVING
Strength to Serve
Tuesday, January 19
Daily Reading: John 14:1-14
Have you ever felt like you didn’t have the strength to serve? Maybe a friend called and
needed something or maybe your church was asking for volunteers or maybe a relative
needed you in some way. We all have moments when we muddle out a “yes” when we have
no idea where we’ll find the energy to perform the task.
Jesus knew that he was calling us to a life that would sometimes be difficult. A life of service
isn’t easy. In fact, Jesus said it would be hard. The great promise we have is that we live in the
power of Christ. The strength for our acts of service does not come from our own might but
through the father. Jesus calls us to continue his work and, in fact, do even greater things.
Then, he empowers us to serve beyond what we can imagine.
Doing the things that Jesus did and living the way that Jesus lived requires that we invite him
to live in and through us. Can you imagine doing greater things than Jesus? Now, the next
time someone calls and you can’t find the strength to help, remember to go to the source of
your strength to serve.
Reflection
How have you experienced the power of Christ in your life?
What promises can be found in today’s reading?
Where do you find strength to serve others?
Prayer
Lord, I know that all of my strength comes from you. Fill me with your Spirit so that I may give
myself to you and to others in love. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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20Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FOUR: SERVING
The Cost of Following Jesus
Wednesday, January 20
Daily Reading: Luke 9:51-10:42
In these few sections of Luke, you’ll see the disciples through a roller coaster of experiences
as they began to understand how costly it was to follow Jesus. Jesus didn’t hesitate to tell
people what they had to give up to follow him. They couldn’t go back. They couldn’t even look
back. They could only go forward with him. They had to set aside what they thought was
important and take on what Jesus taught about important things.
When asked to define the word neighbor, Jesus told a story of a man who was beaten and left
for dead. A Samaritan, considered an outcast and deemed unclean, came along and saved the
man’s life after a priest and a Levite paid no attention. Jesus defined a life a service as
showing mercy, bandaging the wounds, and taking care of someone even the priest would not
bring himself to care for.
Following Jesus means letting everything about our lives point to God’s amazing goodness.
It requires turning our backs on our old selves, taking forward-moving steps with Jesus,
helping others no one else will touch, and soaking up every moment with Jesus we can, even
when that means turning off the oven and putting away the broom.
Reflection
How do these stories teach you about your life of service?
What have you given up to follow Jesus?
What do you find most challenging about living a life of service?
Prayer
Lord, I want to believe that I could drop everything and follow you. Give me the faith to lay my
life down and take up your cross. Let everything about my life be worship that points to your
great Love. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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21Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FOUR: SERVING
Gifts for Service
Thursday, January 21
Daily Reading: Romans 12; Colossians 3:17-4:6
Sometimes we want to find a way to serve or help out somewhere, but feel like we don’t
really have anything to offer. Paul writes that we are all gifted, though we have different gifts
from one another. When we choose to follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit fills us with his presence
and with gifts to serve each other. As the body of believers, we are the body of Christ, and
we’re made up of all these spiritual gifts. Each of us has an equally valuable role to play,
whether it’s front and center or behind the scenes.
Even if we don’t recognize our giftedness, we are all called to love—freely, enthusiastically,
and generously. If we use our gifts perfectly but leave out love and compassion, we haven’t
truly become a living sacrifice. Jesus demands that we love enemies, welcome strangers,
place ourselves with the low in status, and contribute to the community with our spiritual
gifts. That’s why Paul instructs us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We have
to change the way we think. When we come to see ourselves as living demonstrations of
God’s love, we can serve one another without complaining, and give our gifts freely to the
community.
Reflection
What gifts do you possess?
How do you share your gifts in community?
Do you think some gifts are more important than others? Why or why not?
What is the most important aspect of serving?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your great gifts. Show me the gifts you created just for me and how I
might use them in this world . Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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22Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FOUR: SERVING
Shine Like Stars
Friday, January 22
Daily Reading: Matthew 20:20-28; Philippians 2:1-18
The call to serve others is at the heart of following Jesus. It’s our nature to want to be praised,
first in line, and to get ahead of others in life. We want to be the ones at the top, the ones
who win. When the mother of Zebedee’s sons asked for them to sit on either side of Jesus in
heaven, she was asking for the highest honor for them. But Jesus used it as an opportunity to
explain that status is not what is important. Flaunting authority or seeking rank in God’s
kingdom will get you nowhere. Instead, Jesus tells us that whoever wants to be great will
serve others. Even Jesus didn’t come to be served, but to serve.
As we imitate Christ with our lives, we get to take on his humility. He wasn’t interested in
fame or fortune. Instead, he actively pointed the way to God and demonstrated a deep,
unconditional love for others. In a world where people race to get ahead at all cost, Jesus calls
us to another way. The writer of Philippians tells us we will “shine like stars” because of our
kindness, humility, and “doing everything without grumbling or arguing.” That is our witness
Reflection
How hard is it to think about giving up status and rank? Why?
What do these passages tell you about Jesus’ call to serve?
How does your life shine like stars so that others know what the love of Christ is all about?
to the world of what a life of following Jesus looks like.
Prayer
Lord, let me shine like stars so others know you. Forgive me when I grumble and argue. Help
me to live my life in a way that points people to you. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK FIVE: STEWARDSHIP
What is Stewardship
Monday, January 25
Daily Reading: Genesis 1-2; Luke 12:35-48; 1 Corinthians 3
Often stewardship is considered a monetary and financial issue. While it’s true we’re called to
be good stewards of our money, we’re also called to be good stewards of resources, earth,
time, and energy. Stewardship is the management of something. In the Garden of Eden, God
entrusted the care of God’s earth to the man and the woman. Theirs was a stewardship of
land and resources. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he called his followers to take his
message to the entire world. They became stewards of his message.
As believers today, we too are called to be stewards of the earth as well as the ministry of
Jesus. Each of us has unique gifts for God’s kingdom. The apostle Paul talked about having a
gift and a mission to explain the secrets of God. He took that gift seriously and organized his
life so that every aspect of it reflected that mission. In the same way, everything we have and
do can be managed to bring glory to God. Jesus warns us we will be held accountable for how
faithful we are as stewards of God’s blessings---“much will be demanded from everyone who
has been given much.”
Reflection
What does it mean to be a steward of God’s creation?
How would you describe a good and faithful manager of God’s resources?
What gifts has God entrusted to you? How seriously do you take the task of stewarding those
gifts?
Prayer
God, I confess that I am not always that great a steward of your resources. Forgive me when I
forget I have been entrusted with much. Show me how to be a good steward of all you have
blessed me with. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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24Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FIVE: STEWARDSHIP
Multiply Your Gifts
Tuesday, January 26
Daily Reading: Luke 19:1-28
If you spent any of your childhood in the church, you probably heard the children’s song,
“Zacchaeus Was a Wee Little Man…” Unfortunately, the song may under-emphasize his
dramatic change of heart. This was a man who cheated, stole, and sought his own gain. Then,
after one meal with Jesus, he decided to give away half of his possessions to the poor and pay
back anyone he had cheated four times the amount. His heart changed and his whole attitude
about stewardship changed.
Jesus told a story about a king who gave ten servants a few months’ wages and told them to
do business while he was away. One servant invested and grew his portion by one thousand
percent. Another made a return of five hundred percent. But one servant was too afraid and
hid the money. This parable speaks to our fears about using our gifts and resources. We’ve all
been there, but today’s reading challenges us to view them as opportunities for God to work
in us. It may cost us when we choose faithful stewardship, but viewing everything we have as
belonging to God makes it easier to give it up.
Reflection
What does the story of Zacchaeus teach us about giving up our sense of possession?
What does the parable about faithful service tell us about the nature of God and how God
wants us to use our gifts?
How does your perception of God influence your ideas of stewardship?
Prayer
Lord, sometimes I forget everything I have is a gift from you. Help me to be a faithful steward
and use these gifts, resources, and talents to serve you. Amen
Reflection Notes:
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25Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FIVE: STEWARDSHIP
Take Advantage
Wednesday, January 27
Daily Reading: Ephesians 4:11-5:21
Have you ever felt like you missed an opportunity? Maybe you could have made a great
friend, but didn’t do the work to make the friendship happen, or you missed a promotion
because you didn’t pay attention to signals from your boss. Maybe you had a chance to share
your faith but chickened out mid-way through the conversation. Part of intentionally
becoming stewards of God’s blessings means that we have to pay attention. We have to pay
attention to our finances, attitudes, and the world around us. More importantly, we have to
be willing to use our gifts at all times. In today’s scripture selection, Paul encourages believers
not to live foolishly. Instead, we should take advantage of every opportunity set before us to
point to God’s love in Jesus Christ. We should be intentional in our actions—taking every
moment as stewardship of time and resources set before us. Paul teaches that we should be
stewards of our very lifestyles---our words, our actions, our interactions, and even our jokes.
Reflection
What do you do with your time?
What are your spiritual gifts?
How does your behavior affect your Christian witness?
What does a faithful stewardship of lifestyle look like?
What does it mean to live wisely and not foolishly?
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for being foolish and missing opportunities to use the gifts you have blessed
me with. Give me eyes to see every chance I have to live out the tasks you’ve called me to.
Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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26Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FIVE: STEWARDSHIP
Time Management
Thursday, January 28
Daily Reading: Psalm 90; Hebrews 3
Sometimes daily life feels monotonous. We wake up in the morning, and before we know it
we’re going to bed getting ready to start the cycle over. Often we end the day thinking about
everything we failed to accomplish and stressing about all we need to do the following day.
Before we know it we feel overwhelmed and out of control of our time.
Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses when he was preparing God’s people to enter the land God had
promised them. Moses knew how to maximize the time God gave him, and he prayed God
would teach us how to order our moments so we have time to do everything God requires of
us, too. Time is fleeting. We have only so much time to live out the work God has for us. The
author of Hebrews encourages us to choose a life with Jesus today, while it’s still called today.
He challenges us to not let any minute go to waste but to live for Jesus every moment instead.
Reflection
Make a list of all of the references to time in the psalm.
What does it mean to number our days?
How do you manage your time in a way that honors and serves God?
How could you be a better steward of today while it’s still called today?
Prayer
Lord, help me to savor every minute of every day as an opportunity to worship you and share
your love with others. Forgive me when I waste time and help me to choose wisely as I plan
my days. Be the God of my time and let my schedule look like worship to you. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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27Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK FIVE: STEWARDSHIP
Simplicity and Stewardship
Friday, January 29
Daily Reading: Matthew 6:19-34, 11:25-30
The only way we can be good stewards of our gifts, talents, and resources is to embrace
simplicity. When our minds are scattered and our lives are overwrought with busyness, it can
become nearly impossible to manage our time well. Often we love our sense of purpose and
forget God gives us the strength to do the work God has for us. When we’re busy or
overwhelmed however, we often forget to look to God. A simple life leaves worry behind and
trusts in God’s loving care. It makes us more aware of God’s action in our lives, and helps us
see more clearly. Jesus tells us we can’t serve two masters. We can either seek wealth and
personal gain, or we can seek God. A singular focus simplifies our lives from the inside out and
frees us from schedules, results, status, and success. When our focus becomes Christ alone,
we live with Christ as our starting point. We don’t need to worry about anything; we are in
God’s care. And when we give up our worry, we’re free to organize our lives to take advantage
of every opportunity for God to act through us.
Reflection
Would you say you have simplicity in your life? In what ways?
What do today’s readings say about the benefits of a simple life?
How are simplicity and stewardship connected?
How can being free of worry and anxiety help you become a better steward of your life?
Prayer
Lord, help me to savor every minute of every day as an opportunity to worship you and share
your love with others. Forgive me when I waste time and help me to choose wisely as I plan
my days. Be the God of my time and let my schedule look like worship to you. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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Sunday, February 7, 2021—Hospitality
“Radical Hospitality”
Hebrews 13:1-3 (CEB)
Don’t forget to open up your homes to guests,
because by doing this some have been hosts to angels without knowing it.
Hebrews 13:2 (CEB)
Sunday, February 14, 2021—Love
“Loving Like Jesus”
1 John 4:7-11 (CEB)
Just as I have loved you,
so you also must love each other. John 13:34 (CEB)
Sunday, February 21, 2021—Testing
“This is a Test”
Exodus 16:4-5 (CEB); Job 23:10-12 (CEB)
Surely he knows my way; when he tests me,
I will emerge as gold. Job 23:10 (CEB)
Sunday, February 28, 2021—Self Discipline
“Eyes on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (CEB)
Don’t you know that all the runners in the stadium run,
but only one gets the prize? So run to win.
Everyone who competes practices self discipline in everything.
1 Corinthians 9:24-25a (CEB)
29Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK SIX: HOSPITALITY
Biblical Hospitality
Monday, February 1
Daily Reading: Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Peter 4:7-11
While there is an entire industry of hospitality in hotels, restaurants, and entertaining, they
only serve those who can pay the charge. When we consider our own hospitality we may
think about beautiful dishes, a tasty appetizer, or extra bedrooms just begging for
houseguests. But a biblical understanding of hospitality focuses on welcoming strangers and
taking care of them without expecting anything in return. Hospitality is giving the gift of
welcome to the stranger, food to the hungry, clothes to the naked, water to the thirsty, and
love to those who may feel unloved an unlovable.
Biblical hospitality calls us to generosity and a kind welcome as we receive people into our
homes, churches, communities, circle of friends, and our very lives. The passage from
Matthew 25 communicates that welcoming strangers and caring for the “least of these” is so
important to God that we will be judged severely when we fail to extend hospitality. In fact,
this is one of Jesus’ harshest judgment passages. You might have heard the story of Jesus
separating the sheep and the goats, but you may to have realized that the story is about
Jesus’ instruction to welcome and care for the least among us.
Reflection
How would you describe a biblical understanding of hospitality?
How will Jesus’ followers be held accountable?
How do you show hospitality in your own life?
In what ways can you be more intentional about welcoming strangers and caring for those in
need?
Prayer
Lord, give me an understanding of your call to hospitality. Help me care for others and look for
you in the face of people who are in need. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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WEEK SIX: HOSPITALITY
Extending Invitations
Tuesday, February 2
Daily Reading: Luke 14:1-24; 24:13-36; Hebrews 13:1-3
Imagine sending invitations for a dinner party and moments before dinner is served every
guest cancels with excuses as to why they cannot attend. But instead of throwing away the
food you go out and pickup sick people, poor people, people off the streets, people who
would never be invited to a party and anyone who is free to come and be your guests. As you
stand to welcome your guests to your dinner table, you realize you have a house full of the
“least of these” (Matt 25:40).
Jesus told a story similar to this to help us move beyond loving only those who are just like us.
He calls us to a deeper sense of hospitality in which we welcome those who may be very
different from us. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we may not have the eyes to see
who our guests really are. We may not notice that we have been entertaining angels. May our
prayer be to welcome the stranger who may very well be an angel among us.
Reflection
How do God’s values differ from society’s when it comes to who should be invited to your
home?
How are we influenced by society’s values when it comes to throwing parties?
How can we metaphorically lose our sight sometimes?
When have you entertained angels and didn’t realize it?
Prayer
Lord, help me open my table and offer kindness to those who pass by my life. Show me how
to extend your grace and mercy with acts of hospitality. Amen
Reflection Notes:
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31Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK SIX: HOSPITALITY
Hospitality in the Church
Wednesday, February 3
Daily Reading: Acts 2:42-47, 21:1-6, 28:1-10; 3 John
Ultimately, hospitality is an exercise in love. Not the emotional kind of love, but intentional
actions that express kindness and welcome. Our level of commitment to hospitality will
directly impact the culture of our families, churches, and communities. Will we be a
welcoming community, or one that turns people away? Sometimes when we think about
welcoming others, we automatically create a checklist of criteria outsiders have to meet in
order to sit at our tables. But the instruction we find in the scriptures would lead us to open
our doors and leave an extra seat at the table for a stranger.
When the apostles were traveling around spreading the message of Jesus, they had to stay in
homes of believers because of the dangerous conditions of Roman inns. Paul was probably
the most well-traveled apostle with his three Mediterranean journeys. He relied on local
believers to host him while he was in town. Part of the identity of the early church was this
act of welcoming one another and missionaries. It was expected that they would open their
homes and welcome the traveler.
Reflection
How did the early church live out hospitality?
What does the way the early church welcomed others teach us about being the Church today?
How easy or difficult is it for you to receive help or kindness from others? Why?
Prayer
Lord, both me and the people in my church can get focused inward and forget we have an
obligation to the larger Church. Help us to not be lone rangers, but to align ourselves with
other churches for greater mission and purpose. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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32Growing Together in God’s Word
WEEK SIX: HOSPITALITY
Households Believe
Thursday, February 4
Daily Reading: Acts 16
Paul’s missionary journeys took him far and wide to share the love and salvation of Jesus
Christ. In the city of Philippi the people received the gospel and welcomed Paul into their
homes. Today’s reading shows two snapshots of Paul being invited to share a meal in a new
believer’s home.
First, Paul met Lydia. As he taught her, the scripture says that, “the Lord enabled her to
embrace Paul’s message.” When her entire household believed and was baptized, her
immediate response was to invite Paul into her home. She “persuaded” Paul and Silas to
come over.
The second picture is of Paul and Silas in prison. In one of the most exciting moments in the
Bible, Paul and Silas burn the midnight oil singing and praying behind the prison bars. In an
instant an earthquake broke through, opening doors and breaking chains. When the dust
settled, the jailer was overcome by the grace and kindness of Paul and Silas and was baptized
along with his whole household. The jailer’s immediate response was to take them into his
home, wash their wounds, and feed them.
Reflection
Lydia’s household believed and was baptized as well as the jailer’s household. What is the
significance of the entire household believing and being baptized?
Why do we invite people over when something major happens? What does this say about our
natural instincts for hospitality?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the gifts of good food and family and friends. Help me open my table and
welcome others to celebrate their milestones and rejoice with them in their joy. Amen.
Reflection Notes:
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