[Sunday] A Song of Christmas Light - Know Me Better Man Stave 3

Though we mistake Christmas for a time of material plenty, the Ghost of Christmas Present reveals that true abundance is actually found in the humble poverty where Jesus dwells.

• Notable Quotes From Stave 3 (click + to see)

  • I don't mind calling on you to believe that he was ready for a good broad field of strange appearances , and that nothing between a baby and rhinoceros would have astonished him very much. Pg 75

  • All this time, he lay upon his bed, the very core and centre of a blaze of ruddy light, which streamed upon it when the clock proclaimed the hour pg 76

    • Worked to light

  • Marley's , or for many and many a winter season gone. Heaped up on the floor, to form a kind of throne, were turkeys, geese, game , poultry , brawn , great joints of meat , suckingpigs , long wreaths of sausages , mince-pies , plum-puddings , barrels of oysters , red-hot chestnuts , cherrycheeked apples, juicy oranges, luscious pears, immense twelfth-cakes, and seething bowls of punch, that made the chamber dim with their delicious steam. In easy state upon this couch there sat a jolly Giant , glorious to see; who bore a glowing torch, in shape not unlike Plenty's horn, and held it up , high up, to shed its light on Scrooge, as he came peeping round the door. Pg 71

    • Light signals a huge giant party.

  • " Come in!" exclaimed the Ghost. " Come in! And know me better, man ! " pg 72

  • "I am the Ghost of Christmas Present," said the Spirit . " Look upon me!" pg 72

  • This garment hung so loosely on the figure, that its capacious breast was bare, as if disdaining to be warded or concealed by any artifice. Its feet, observable beneath the ample folds of the garment, were also bare; and on its head it wore no other covering than a holly wreath, set here and there with shining icicles. Its dark brown curls were long and free; free as its genial face, its sparkling eye pg 72

    • He is just open. Its not proper. 

  • they stood in the city streets on Christmas morning, where (for the weather was severe) the people made a rough , but brisk and not unpleasant kind of music, in scraping the snow from the pavement in front of their dwellings , pg 80

    • This has a Manger scene similarity here. 

  • The house fronts looked black enough pg 80

    • Big to small

    • Pg 81 They visit the mine. They have so much, yet dont have anything at all. 

  • The sight of these poor revellers appeared to interest the Spirit very much, for he stood with Scrooge beside him in a baker's doorway, and taking off the covers as their bearers passed, sprinkled incense on their dinners from his torch. And it was a very uncommon kind of torch, for once or twice when there were angry words between some dinner-carriers who had jostled each other, he shed a few drops of water on them from it , and their good humour was restored directly . For they said, it was a shame to quarrel upon Christmas Day. And so it was! God love it , so it was!  Pg 85

    • Spreading the Christmas Spirit. 

  • " Is there a peculiar flavour in what you sprinkle  from your torch?" asked Scrooge.
    "There is . My own. "
    "Would it apply to any kind of dinner on this day?" asked Scrooge.
    "To any kindly given. To a poor one most."
    "Why to a poor one most? " asked Scrooge.
    "Because it needs it most. "

    • Manger Feast for a King

  • "There are some upon this earth of yours," returned the Spirit, " who lay claim to know us, and who do their deeds of passion , pride, ill-will , hatred, envy, bigotry, and selfishness in our name, who are as strange to us and all our kith and kin, as if they had never lived. Remember that, and charge their doings on themselves, not us. " pg 87

    • People claim to be righteous

  Clerks party 

  • Then up rose Mrs. Cratchit, Cratchit's wife, dressed out but poorly in a twice-turned gown, but brave in ribbons, which are cheap and make a goodly show for sixpence pg 88

  • Master Peter Cratchit plunged a fork into the saucepan of potatoes , and getting the corners of his monstrous shirt-collar ( Bob's private property, conferred upon his son and heir in honour of the day ) into his mouth , rejoiced to find himself so gallantly attired , and yearned to show his linen in the fashion able Parks. 88

    • They are so proud of their thread warn closes

  • and his thread bare clothes darned up and brushed, to look season able; and Tiny Tim upon his shoulder. Alas for Tiny Tim, he bore a little crutch , and had his limbs supported by an iron frame! 85

  • " As good as gold, " said Bob, " and better. Somehow he gets thoughtful, sitting by himself so much, and thinks the strangest things you ever heard. He told me, coming home, that he hoped the people saw him in the church, because he was a cripple, and it might be pleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk and blind men see." Bob's voice was tremulous when he told them this, and trembled more when he said that Tiny Tim was growing strong and hearty. 91

  • His active little crutch was heard upon the floor

  • Might have thought a goose the rarest of the birds. Pg 92

  • It was suc ceeded by a breathless pause, as Mrs. Cratchit, looking slowly all along the carving- knife, prepared to plunge it in the breast; but when she did, and when the long-expected gush of stuffing issued forth, one murmur of delight arose all round the board, and even Tiny Tim, excited by the two young Cratchits, beat on the table with the handle of his knife, and feebly cried Hurrah! Pg 93

  • There never was such a goose. Bob said he didn't believe there ever was such a goose cooked. Its tenderness and flavour, size and cheapness , were the themes of universal admiration. Eked out by applesauce and mashed potatoes, it was a sufficient dinner for the whole family; indeed, as Mrs. Cratchit said with great delight ( surveying one small atom of a bone upon the dish ) , they hadn't ate it all at last! Yet every one had had enough, pg 93

  • Oh , a wonderful pudding! Bob Cratchit said, and calmly too, that he regarded it as the greatest success achieved by Mrs. Cratchit since their marriage. Mrs. Cratchit said that now the weight was off her mind, she would confess she had her doubts about the quantity of flour. Everybody had something to say about it , but nobody said or thought it was at all a small pud ding for a large family. It would have been flat heresy to do so. Any Cratchit would have blushed to hint at such a thing . 

  • God Bless us everyone pg 95

    • Spirit will tiny time live. 

    • Decrease the surplus the population

  • Scrooge was the shadow in the family pg98

  •  There was nothing of high mark in this. They were not a handsome family; they were not well dressed; their shoes were far from being waterproof; their clothes were scanty; and Peter might have known, and very likely did, the inside of a pawnbroker's. But, they were happy, grateful , pleased with one another, and contented with the time; and when they faded, and looked happier yet in the bright sprinklings of the Spirit's torch at parting, Scrooge had his eye upon them, and especially on Tiny Tim, until the last. Pg 99

  The miners have so little. Yet they know how to celebrate christmas. 

  Scrooges nephew. Pities scrooge. 109

  • But they didn't devote the whole evening to music. After a while they played at forfeits; for it is good to be children sometimes , and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child him- self . Stop pg 111

  • "A Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to the old man, whatever he is! " said Scrooge's nephew. "He wouldn't take it from me, but may he have it , nevertheless. Uncle Scrooge!" pg 115

  • Much they saw, and far they went and many homes they visited, but always with a happy end. The Spirit stood beside sick beds, and they were cheerful; on foreign lands , and they were close at home; by struggling men, and they were patient in their greater hope; by poverty , and it was rich. In almshouse , hospital , and jail , in misery's every refuge, where vain man in his little brief authority had not made fast the door, and barred the Spirit out , he left his blessing, and taught Scrooge his precepts. Pg 114

    • The point

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Questions for the Week: A Story of Christmas Light -  Know Me Better Man - Stave3

1. The Ghost of Christmas Present invites Scrooge to "Know me better, man," and then shows him joy in poverty (the Cratchits) and horror in neglect (Ignorance and Want). What does "knowing Christmas better" look like for you this year? Is it about finding joy in less, or opening your eyes to those in need?

2. The sermon highlighted the Cratchit family dinner: the goose was small, the pudding was small, but the joy was huge. In a season obsessed with "more" and "perfect," how can you cultivate a spirit of abundance and gratitude even when things (finances, health, time) feel scarce?

3. Read Luke 1: 46-56.  Mary sang that God "fills the hungry with good things" but sends the "rich away empty." Why do you think it is often harder for the "rich" (or self-sufficient) to truly experience the joy of Jesus than it is for the humble or poor?

4. Tiny Tim hoped that people seeing his crutch in church would remind them of Jesus, who made the lame walk. Instead of hiding his weakness, he used it to point to God. What is a weakness or struggle in your own life that, if shared openly, could actually point others to God's strength?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] A Song of Christmas Light - Flickering Past Stave 2

Instead of snuffing out the painful memories of our past, the true Christmas Light shines into our darkness to offer redemption rather than shame.

• Notable Quotes From Stave 2 (click + to see)

  • when Scrooge awoke, it was so dark that looking out of bed, he could scarcely distinguish the transparent window from the opaque walls of his chamber. Pg39

  • It was a strange figure like a child yet not so like a child, as like an old man viewed through some supernatural medium, which gave him an appearance of having receded from the view and being diminished into child proportions pg43

  • It held a branch of fresh green holly in its hand, and in singular contradiction of the wintry emblem, had its dress trimmed with summer flowers, but the strangest thing about it was that from the crown of its head they're sprung a bright clear jet of light by which all this was visible in, which was doubtless the occasion of it's using end moments, a great extinguisher for a cap which is now held under its arm pg43

    • It sounds like the Charibum from Isiah. 

  • I am the ghost of Christmas past the long past inquired Scrooge observant of its dwarf stature no your past perhaps Scrooge could not have told anyone why if anyone could have asked him, but he had a special desire to see the spirit in its And begged him to be covered pg45

  • What explained the ghost would you so soon put out with worldly hands delight I give is it not enough that you are one of those whose passions made this Enforced me through whole trains of years to wear it low upon my brow. Pg45

    • This reminds me of the song this little light of mine

  • Scrooge is confronted with his childhood memories at that the ghost says your lip is trembling, said the ghost and what is that on your cheek Scrooge muttered an unusual catch in his voice that it was a pimple and begged the ghost to lead him where he would pg47

    • This part is interesting to me because he's remembering his youth with fondness. Even though there's pain.

  • They walked along the road screwed, recognizing every gate and post and tree……All these boys were in great spirits and shouted to each other until the Broadfield were so full of Mary music that the crisp air left to hear it. Pg 48

    • Places full of joy

  • It opened before them and disclose a long bear melancholy room made bears still by lines of plain Deal forms and desks. At one of these, a lonely boy was reading near a feeble fire, and Scrooge sat down upon a form and wept to see his poor, forgotten self as he used to be. Pg 50

    • Despite the great memories, he remembers the sadness of his childhood.

    • Also, there's an idea of him wanting more here.

  • Then with a Rapidity of transition very foreign to his usual character he said in pity for his former herself, poor boy and cried again. Pg 52

  • What is the matter ask the spirit nothing said Scrooge nothing there was a boy singing a Christmas Carol at my door last night. I should like to have given him something that's all. Pg 52

    • Here's this interesting moment of regret and the light shining through.

    • Connecting himself to Tiny Tim.

  • In your to be a man sent the child, opening her eyes and are never to come back here, but first where to be together all the Christmas long and have the merriest time in all the world. Pg54

    • Merriest  time and all the world is the point

  • She died. A woman said the ghost and had as I think children one child screched, returned true said the ghost your nephew Scrooge seemed an easy in his mind and answered briefly, yes. Pg 56

    • His sister brought joy, but also sorrow

  • Why it's old fuzzy wig, bless his heart it's fuzzy wig alive again he rubbed his hands adjusted his capacious. Waistcoat laughed all over himself from his shows to his organ of benevolence and called out and a conformable oily Rich fat jovial Voice yo ho here, Ebeneezer Dick.. pg 57

  • Every removable was packed off, as if it were dismissed from public life forevermore the floor was swept and watered. The lamps were trimmed fuel was heaped upon the fire in the warehouse was a snug and warm and dry and bright a ballroom as you would desire to see upon a Winters night. Pg 58

  • A positive light appeared to issue from fuzzy wigs, calves, they shown in every part of the dance like moons you couldn't have predicted at any given time what would have become of them next pg 61

  • During the whole time screwed to acted like a man out of his wits, his heart and soul were in the scene with his former self he corroborated everything remembered everything, enjoyed everything and underwent the strangest agitation. Pg 63

  • That he remembered the ghost and became conscious that it was looking full upon him while the light upon his head burnt very clear. A small matter, said the ghost to make these silly folks so full of gratitude small echoed Scrooge. Pg 63

  • Why is it not? He has spent with a few pounds of your immortal money three or four perhaps is that so much that he deserves this praise

  • The happiness he gives is quite as great as if it cost a fortune pg 63

    • This whole commentary of it being a small thing, but Scrooge's of saying that it's as if it cost a fortune the point.

  • It matters little, she said softly to you very little another idol has displaced me, and if it can cheer and comfort you in time to come as I would have tried to do, I have no just caused to grieve what idol has displaced you. He rejoined a golden one. Pg 65

  • May you be happy in the life you have chosen. Pg68

    • As we've gone through the ghost of Christmas past, even though there's pain in the beginning, Scrooge remembers it with joy, and even though he has so much at the end, he remembers it was sadness. And you see happiness fading

  • I should've liked. I do confess to have had the lightest license of a child and yet to have been man enough to know it's value. Pg 69

  • Remove me, Scrooge exclaimed I cannot bear it. He turned upon the ghost, and seeing that it looked up upon him with a face in which, in some strange way, there were fragments of all the faces it had shown him wrestled with it. Leave me take me back, haunt me no longer. Pg73

  • Scrooge observed that it's light was burning high and bright, and dimly connecting that with its influence over him, he sees the extinguisher cap, and by a sudden action pressed it down upon its head. The spirit dropped beneath it so that the extinguisher covered its whole form. But those Scrooge pressed it down with all his force he could not hide the light which streamed from under it in an unbroken flood upon the ground. Pg 72

    • This little light of mine so

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Questions for the Week: A Story of Christmas Light -  Flickering Past Stave 2

1. Scrooge was forced to look at his "Golden Idol" (money) that cost him his relationship with Belle. This is similar to Israel’s Golden Calf. What are the "false lights" or “golden idols” that people today chase, thinking they will bring happiness but only bring darkness?

2. When the memories became too painful, Scrooge tried to force the "extinguisher cap" over the light to hide it. What are some ways we try to "cap" or snuff out the light when our own past mistakes or regrets get too uncomfortable to face?

3. Read Luke 1:5-25, 67-80.  Zechariah sang about the "tender mercy of our God" bringing a Sunrise to those in the shadow of death. How does thinking of Jesus as a "Sunrise" change how you feel about the dark parts of your own history?

4. Read John 1:1-10.  Why is bringing our "past darkness" into the light actually freeing rather than shameful?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] A Song of Christmas Light - Humbug

By exploring the shadows of Herod and Scrooge, we discover that Christmas Light shines brightest even in the darkness of our own making.

• Notable Quotes From Stave 1 (click + to see)

  • Scrooge was his sole executor, his sole administrator, his sole assign, his sole residuary legatee, his sole friend, and sole mourner 

  • External heat and cold had little influence on Scrooge. No warmth could warm. No wintry weather chill him. no wind that blue was bitterer than he, no falling snow was more intent upon its purpose. No pelting rain less open to entreaty. Foul weather didn't know where to have him. The heaviest, rain and snow and hail and sleet could boast of the advantage over him in only one respect. They often came down handsomely and Scrooge never did.

  • When describing the condition of the beginning of the story

    • On Christmas eve……..The city clock had only just gone three, but it was quite dark already -- it had not been light all day -- and candles were flaring in the windows of the neighbouring offices. Like ruddy smears upon the palpable brown air. 

  • I do said Scrooge merry Christmas! What right have you to be married? What reason have you to be married? You're poor enough.  Come, then return the nephew gaily what right have you to be so dismal? What reason have you to be merry? You're rich enough. Pg6

  • Nothing Scrooge replied. You wish to be anonymous. I wish to be left alone said Scrooge since you asked me what I wish gentleman that is my answer. I don't make Mary myself at Christmas and I can't afford to make idle people marry. I help to support the establishments I have mentioned they cost enough and those who are badly off must go there. Pg9

  • Minnie can't go there and many would rather die if they would rather die said Scrooge they had better do it and decrease the surplus population. Besides excuse me, I don't know that 

  • When the clerk promised that he would be back the day after Christmas, all the earlier and after all the abuse Scrooge gave him, he did this. 

    • The clerk promised that he would and Scrooge walked out with a growl. The office was closed and a twinkling and the clerk with the long ends of his white comforter dangling below his waist for he boasted no great coat. Went down a slide on corn Hill at the end of the lane of boys 20 times in honor of it being Christmas Eve and then he ran home to camdentown as hard as he could pelt to play at blind man's bluff pg11

  • When walking up his stairs. Half a dozen gas lamps out of the street wouldn't have lighted the injury too well so you may suppose that it was pretty dark with Scrooge's dip up. Scrooge went not carrying a button for that. Darkness is cheap and Scrooge liked it pg 13

  • The fireplace was an old one built by some Dutch merchant long ago and paved all round with quaint Dutch tiles designed to illustrate the scriptures. There were canes and ables Sparrow's daughters queens of Sheba angelic Messengers descending through the air on clouds like feather beds, Abraham's belshazzar's, apostles putting off to sea and butter boats. Hundreds of figures to attract his thoughts and yet that face of Marley 7 years dead came like the ancient prophets, rod and swallowed up the hole. Pg14

  • If that Spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so. After death. It is doomed to wander through the world. Oh, woe is me and witness what it cannot share but might have shared on Earth and turn to happiness. Pg17

  • I wear the chain I forged in life replied to ghost. I made it link by link yard by yard. I girded it on of my own free will and of my own free will I wore it. Is its pattern. Strange to you pg18

  • Business cried the ghost ringing his hands again. Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business clarity. Mercy, forbearance and benevolence were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but the drop of a water in the comparative ocean of my business. 19

  • At this time of the rolling year, the specter said I suffer most. Why did I walk through the crowds of fellow beings with my eyes turned down and never raise them to that blessed star which led the wise men to a poor abode. Were there no poor homes to which it's light would have conducted me 20

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Questions for the Week: A Story of Christmas Light - Humbug

1. Read Matthew 2: 1-18. Herod wanted control, while the Magi wanted to give. Is there an area of our lives right now where we are trying to hold onto control like Herod, rather than letting go and worshipping like the Magi?"

2. Jacob Marley from A Christmas Carol, lamented that he walked through life in chains of his own making, with his eyes down, never looking up at the Star. What are some distractions that are keeping us from looking up at Jesus this season?"

3. Scrooge often focused on small and selfish things that kept him from joy. Can you think of a recent moment where you got upset about something small or selfish? How can we help each other catch those 'Scrooge moments' and choose kindness instead?"

4. We were reminded that Christmas is celebrated during the darkest time of the year to symbolize Jesus coming as the Light. What is one 'dark' or difficult thing facing our household or the world right now that we need to pray for Jesus to shine His light on?"

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Freely - King’s Table

The freely given truth of Christ the King: He is not found on a distant throne but is waiting for us in the face of the hungry, the stranger, and the sinner.

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Questions for the Week: Freely Given/Shared - King’s Table

1. Norman Rockwell’s painting illustrates how we often want the image of a perfect Thanksgiving without doing the hard work of loving imperfect people (like "crazy Uncle Larry"). What does "lowering yourself to make room at the table" actually look like for you this holiday season?

2. The "goats" may actually be the religious leaders who focused on looking holy but ignored the hurting. In what ways do we sometimes prioritize "being right" or "looking religious" over actually seeing the people right in front of us?

3. We naturally look "up" to find a king, but Jesus is found "down" among the hungry, the stranger, and the sick. How does this change how you view the needy or the "interruptions" in your life this week?

4. Jesus is the King who didn't demand perfection but gave up His throne to serve us. How does knowing you are already welcomed at His table by grace change your motivation for serving others?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Freely - Witness

 Christ has already secured the victory, our mission isn't to fight, but to embody our hope through gentle and respectful action.

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Questions for the Week: Freely Given/Shared - Witness

1. Share how you came to faith? Describe the witness to Jesus others shared with you?  What tone did they have?

2. Read 1 Peter 3:8-18. Peter emphasizes living humbly and sharing with gentleness and respect.  How does this emphasis on how we witness—rather than if we are right—change how you engage in difficult conversations about faith?

3. Daniel had a powerful witness as he quietly trusted in the Lord while in the lion’s den (Daniel 6). Share a time when choosing humility and patience (not fighting) was unexpectedly effective in demonstrating Christ’s victory to someone else?

4. Since we are freely given Christ's victory, we are called to freely share it through tangible, loving actions. What is one practical, non-verbal act of service or generosity you could focus on this week to be a gentle, living example of the hope you possess?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Freely - Tenants

The essence of true Christian living: recognizing that God owns everything and has freely given us Christ’s transformation, moving us away from the "Rich Fool's" selfish materialism toward the cheerful and shared stewardship of all our resources.

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Questions for the Week: Freely Given/Shared - Tenants

1. Read Leviticus 25:23-24.   "God owns everything" and we are merely tenants. How does this foundational truth change your view of your own bank account, house, or time?

2. Read Luke 12:13-21.  The Rich Fool's fatal flaw was his focus on "my, my, my." What are some subtle ways we today isolate ourselves from God and neighbor by being self-contained in our prosperity?

3. The Rich Fool was rich toward himself but bankrupt toward God. What does it mean practically to be "rich toward God" in your daily life?

4. Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15.  The ultimate gift is Christ. How does knowing you have received this "unexpressible gift" free you to move from fearfully owning your resources to cheerfully sharing them?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Freely Dwell

Shifting focus from the temple as a static building, the freely shared reality is that God desires to dwell among us, using our diverse and imperfect gifts as the very means to make His presence known for the benefit of all.

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Questions for the Week: Freely Given/Share: Freely Dwell

1. Read Exodus Chapter 35: God used the Israelites' gifts to build the Tabernacle. What unique gifts do you have which can bless others?

2. The Israelites sinned but still brought freewill offerings to God. How does the knowledge of your own past "Golden Calves" (sins) make you more or less motivated to offer your gifts to God now?

3. Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-12 Have you ever been "carried by the faith" or service of another believer during a time of struggle? 

4. "Your Kingdom Come, Your Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven." How do your everyday actions and service help bring God's heavenly will to earth?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Reformation - Sola Gratia - Freely

Overturning the common belief that grace is reluctantly earned, the freely given reality of the Gospel is that God's salvation flows from His eager delight to love and forgive us.

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Questions for the Week: Reformation - Sola Gratia

1. Do you personally find it easier to focus on your sinfulness and the need for grace, or on God's active delight in extending that grace?

2. God's grace is rooted in His delight. What does it mean for your daily life to know that God doesn't just tolerate you, but actively delights in showing you kindness and forgiveness? (Psalm 145:8)

3. Read Ephesians 2:1-10.  The sermon contrasted living under the "burden" of earning grace with living under the "delight" of free grace. What are some ways you might still unconsciously try to "pay" for your sins today?

4. Esau met Jacob, his deceiver, with grace and delight. How can you practically extend that same kind of delighted, extravagant forgiveness to someone who has wronged you?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Matthew 28:19 - Richer

Moving past a fearful view of evangelism, the richer meaning of the Great Commission is found in Christ's established authority, which turns our lives into a confident declaration of His victory.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Matthew 28:18-20

1. Jesus calls us to go make disciples?  How are you part of this mission? Do you find it scary at times? 

2. Read Matthew 28:17-20.  The mission starts with Christ's victory: "All authority... has been given to me." How does knowing that Jesus already has all authority and victory change the way we view our personal challenges, fears, or the mission of sharing our faith? Does it make the Great Commission feel less scary?

3. The sermon emphasized that the "teaching" component is about Jesus' love for you and  loving people (the Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12), not just mastering doctrine. How does this focus change how you approach teaching your faith to others?

4. The Church has a history of making disciples.  The sermon used the history of LCMS education in the south.  What are specific ways we can be "ambassadors of Jesus" or embody His victory and teachings in our specific community, school, or workplace this week?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Genesis 1:1-2 - Richer

The richer truth of Genesis 1 is that God's creation was a deliberate, harmonious song that continues, through Christ, to restore the dissonance of our chaotic world.

Here is a video to dive deeper into Genesis chapter 1

How is our interpretation of the creation story in Genesis 1 deepened when we consider its ancient historical and cultural context? In this Bible commentary video, we look at how the literary design of Genesis 1 reveals God’s ideal vision for the whole cosmos.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Genesis 1:1-2

1. The sermon emphasized that we were created with a beautiful song, out of love and intention. How does believing you were "sung into existence" change the way you see yourself or your worth compared to believing you are the result of chance or accident?

2. Read Genesis 1 - 2:3.  Genesis 1 starts with God bringing order out of chaos (tohu va-vohu). What are some areas of chaos or darkness in our family's life, or the wider world, where we need God's "song" (His voice, grace, or order) to bring light and rest?

3. God kept declaring His creation was "good" (and humans "very good"). When is it easiest for you to believe God's declaration that you are "Goooooood", and what makes it hardest to believe that about yourself or others?

4. If our lives are meant to be a part of God's perfect creation "song," what does it look like when we choose to create dissonance (by choosing our own way, like Adam and Eve)? What's one practical way we can intentionally choose harmony (forgiveness, kindness, order) this week?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Resurrection- Together 1 Corinthians 15

Amidst the noise of sin and the inevitability of death, Paul's final revelation is that Christ's resurrection is the event that transforms chaos into a unified, new, beautiful life.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Resurrection

1. The sermon used the "Devil Went Down to Georgia" analogy, contrasting the Devil's chaotic music with Johnny's beauty. Where do you see "chaos" (selfishness, division) and "beauty" (grace, life) at work in the world or in the church today?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 15:34-49.  Paul called the Corinthians to "Wake up from your drunken stupor" and stop sinning. What is one area where we have been acting "asleep" or blinded by individualism (like the Corinthians), and what is one practical way we can intentionally choose to build each other up this week instead?

3. Paul reminds us that in Christ, "Death is swallowed up in victory." What does this victory mean for our family when we face something that feels permanent, difficult, or like a "loss" right now? How does the promise of resurrection change how we view these earthly problems?

4. Christ defeats ugliness with beauty. What is one concrete action we can take this week to bring the "beauty" of Christ's forgiveness and life into a chaotic situation or to a person in need?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Gathering - Together 1 Corinthians 11-14

Though spiritual gifts can be as confusing as an Icelandic sign, Paul unveils that they are not for individual showmanship, but for a selfless love that makes the entire body whole.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Gathering

1. The sermon began with the "Gjaldskylda" analogy about misunderstanding a culture. What's an example of a biblical term or concept you think is often misunderstood in today's culture, and how might we clarify its true meaning?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-19. Paul said tongues build up the individual, while prophecy builds up the church. How do we make sure our spiritual gifts are used for others and not for ourselves? 

3. Read 1 Corinthians 12: 12-26.  This verse compares the church to a body, with all parts being essential. How can we better show value for those in our church with less visible or "honorable" roles?

4. Paul highlights that without love, our gifts are meaningless. What is one practical step you can take this week to use your gifts in a more loving way?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Food- Together 1 Corinthians 8-10

A dispute over food sacrificed to idols ultimately reveals that Christian freedom is not for boasting, but for humbly building up others through love.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Food

1. Read 1 Corinthians 8. Paul says, "knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." Have you seen a time where knowing the "right" thing seemed more important than love?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 9: 19-23.  What is a "right" you have in Christ that you might be called to give up for the sake of another believer?

3. Read 1 Corinthians 10:31-33.  The final takeaway was to do everything "to the glory of God" and to not cause offense. When we are making decisions together, how can we make sure we are doing so in a way that prioritizes God's glory and shows love to those around us?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Body- Together 1 Corinthians 5-7

Instead of treating the body as a means for selfish gain, Paul's message points to a greater purpose where our bodies are made into a holy dwelling for God himself.

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This creator is one Pastor Cris has followed for years. He was a NASA engineer in Huntsville, Alabama, and now produces educational videos that are available to everyone. This is a great YouTube channel.

The video provides background information for the sermon on September 14th. I encourage you to watch it. Although it is long, it is very informative.

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Questions for the Week: Together: Body

1. Paul says that while "all things are lawful," not all are "helpful." Can you think of a personal habit or behavior that might be technically "permissible," but isn’t actually "helpful" in living out your faith or serving others?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20.  Paul reminds us that our bodies are the temple, a place for God to dwell and bring good news to others. How does this idea change the way we think about our physical and emotional health, and our relationships with others?

3. We were "bought with a price" and therefore belong to God. What are some specific actions we can take this week to use our bodies and our lives to serve others and bring them good news, rather than just serving ourselves?

4. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to "flee from sexual immorality." Beyond the obvious, what are some of the more subtle ways that selfishness or a desire for control can creep into our relationships, and how can we work to be more selfless and honoring to each other?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Divisions - Together 1 Corinthians 1-4

Although a worldly desire for wisdom and greatness creates divisions, 1 Corinthians point to a divine mystery that finds unity in humble service.

Questions for the Week: Together: Divisions

1. Where have we been guilty of division, whether in our church, family, or other communities?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 1:10-17. Paul chose to address the sin of division before other sins. Why do you think he saw division as such a foundational and serious problem for the church?

3. Read 1 Corinthians 3. Paul says that those who plant and water are "nothing" and that only God gives the growth. How does this perspective challenge our human tendency to take pride in our own work or the leaders we follow?

4. How can we shift our focus from being "right" to being servants?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Believe and Receive - Jesus Said What?!

Though prayers may go unanswered and institutions may fail, the true test of faith is in a God whose work of salvation is never halted.

Questions for the Week: Jesus Said What?! - Believe and Receive

1. There is disappointment that can come when a deeply desired prayer, especially for healing, seems to go unanswered. Have you ever experienced a time when a prayer felt unheard, and how did you navigate that disappointment?

2. Read Mark 11:12-25.  Jesus described the temple as a "fruitless" institution that needed to be replaced. Can you think of something—perhaps a church, a leader, or a system—that you once put your faith in that you later realized was "fruitless" or failed you?

3. Read Isiah 56:6-7.  What was supposed to happen on the temple mount?  What was happening at the temple mount in the days of Jesus?  How does Jesus ultimately destroy the temple and rebuild it in 3 days?

4. God’s purpose of bringing forgiveness and life to the world through Jesus never stops or changes.  How does that give you hope when the world seems to let you down?  Who can you share that hope and forgiveness with who is going through a rough time today?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Divorce is Adultery? - Jesus Said What?!

Even a difficult teaching on divorce ultimately points not to a legalistic rule, but to the boundless grace that unconditionally welcomes everyone.

Questions for the Week: Jesus Said What?! - Divorce is Adultery?

1. Why is it so difficult to speak about personal failures, especially divorce, today?

2. Read Mark 10:1-16. The Pharisees tried to use the scriptures on divorce as a “clobber verse” against Jesus.  In what ways have we, or people we know, used scripture to judge others instead of showing grace?

3. Jesus teaching on marriage with the disciples contrasts their pursuit of greatness.  How do you think our modern culture’s focus on success and perfection influences our view of marriage and relationships?

4. Read Ephesians 5:21-33.  Marriage is a reflection of Christ and the Church. What does this mean to you, and how does viewing a marriage in this light change the way you might approach it, either your own or someone else's?

5. Jesus welcoming the children is similar to us as the church welcoming those who have experienced "failure." How can our household be more welcoming to people who feel they have failed or been pushed away from God or the church?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Cut Off Your Hand? - Jesus Said What?!

Jesus' challenging words invite us to cut off the very things that are keeping us from Kingdom greatness.

Questions for the Week: Jesus Said What?! - Cut Off Your Hand?!

1. Can you think of an example, where someone's pride (in their talent, authority, or possessions) had a negative impact on others?

2. Read Mark 9:33-37.  Jesus repeatedly used the example of a child to teach humility, in a culture that viewed children as weak and unimportant. In what ways do you think we still struggle to see value in the "weakest" members of our society or communities?

3. Read Mark 9:42-50 and Mark 10:17-31.  How does the rich young ruler fail to cut off his “hand” or “eye”?  What is a "hand" or "foot" in your own life—something you're proud of or cling to—that might be getting in the way of a deeper walk with Jesus and cause harm to your neighbor?

4. How does seeing Jesus “cut off” for you on the cross change the way you view greatness?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] She’s a Dog?! - Jesus Said What?!

When so many feel like they are pushed to the outside, Jesus reveals a profound truth about His kingdom where even the smallest portion of His grace is more than enough.

Questions for the Week: Jesus Said What?! - She’s A Dog?

1. What is a ridiculous rule someone has tried to make you follow?

2. Read Mark 7:1-23.   What is the issue that Jesus is concerned about?

3. What are some rules we put on our faith, that actually point people further away from Jesus and each other?

4. How does Jesus bring us closer to Him and each other?

5. Read Mark 7:24-30.   How is it encouraging to know that even if we get the crumbs of God’s grace, it is enough?

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What Had happened at Grace this week. 

[Sunday] Unforgivable Sin - Jesus Said What?!

Despite the alarming mention of an unforgivable sin, the truth of Jesus' words point towards all sins being forgiven for the children of man.

Questions for the Week: Jesus Said What?! - Unforgivable sin?

1. Even very godly people struggled with the idea of the "unforgivable sin." Why do you think this particular verse (Mark 3:29) causes so much anxiety or misunderstanding for people, even those with strong faith?

2. Read Mark 3:22-30.  The scribes accused Jesus of being demon possessed.  Why would Jesus’ opponents make such an illogical accusation?

3. What kinds of accusations does the Devil level at believers today?

4. The sermon emphasized that Jesus' mission is to forgive sins, even blasphemies. What specific examples or phrases from the sermon or the scriptures (like Mark 3:28 or Jesus' words on the cross) stood out to you as reminders of God's incredible grace and willingness to forgive?

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What Had happened at Grace this week.