Scriptures
See a Need, Fill a Need | Mark 1: 29-39
February 7, 2021 • Ruthann Turner
We watched a clip from the movie Robots and thought about this week's scripture. A little bit further past this movie clip, Rodney is seen resting and saying, "Are there any more?" and Fender looks out the window to see an enormous crowd of more robots needing to get fixed. This is the kind of impact Jesus made. So consider this idea: See a need, fill a need. What is our mark of discipleship? What need do we see to fill?
Helping Others to Hear God | 1 Samuel 3: 1-10
January 17, 2021 • Ruthann Turner
God's call comes when we least expect it and often to those we least expect. We, as the church, need to be like Eli, encouraging everyone to hear the voice that calls them forth into all they are created to be. The word of the Lord is precious. But instead of saying, "Here I am," perhaps we can quietly ask God to "Speak, for your servant is listening."
Elder Care, Ageism, and Joy | Luke 1:13-18
December 13, 2020 • Ruthann Turner
In this story Jesus was saying John, son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, was preparing the way for the Kingdom of God to come near and that we should listen to these words. The angel told Zechariah the same thing; how many times do you think Zechariah shared this story? And how that helped make people ready for the Lord! What are the stories of our elders that inspire our faith and trust?
Send | Matthew 28: 5-7
September 13, 2020 • Ruthann Turner
All of us have a story to share. Today, hear the angel say, "do not be afraid." Hear the angel say, "no, hurry, go! I am sending you!" Are you ready to be sent? Maybe you need more equipping. Then do that! Join a Bible study, work with your friends and fellow disciples and learn their stories, practice telling your story, and find your words that need to be shared. What seeds of hope are lighting up your eyes? What makes you want to tell someone "don't be afraid?"
Equip | Matthew 14: 22-33
September 6, 2020 • Ruthann Turner
If we really are disciples, we get into that boat that Jesus is making us get into and battle with the waves and wind, and row together. A few might want to just get out of the boat, but Jesus is clear that we need faith to believe. So what now? It is now September, when we typically start up groups, classes, and events. Will you choose to participate? What equipping do you still need? Whether you have been a disciple for 5 minutes or 5 decades, there is always a next step. What is your next step? Where do you need to grow as a disciple? I want everyone to think on this as September unfolds around us. Pray to be shown the next step. In faith, trust that step and take it! Let us witness our faith to a world that is being battered by wind and waves, and live like we believe and follow Jesus.