Reflection Questions for July 25, 2021 (Ninth Sunday After Pentecost)

Scripture Readings: 2 Samuel 11:1–15 | Psalm 14 | Ephesians 3:14–21 | John 6:1–21

An invitation for reflection on the Scriptures from Rev. Rob.

​There are many ways that God can speak to us through Holy Scripture, including times of silence and quiet reflection. Just as we did last week, I invite us to personally think about these questions arising from our Scripture readings. We’ll take 3-4 minutes together in silence for us to reflect on each question. You might find it helpful to write down your answers, but you don’t need to share your answers with anyone. For question 3, those who feel comfortable doing so are invited to share their response in a word or two, but even then, no one has to share unless they would like to.
 
1. What words, ideas, or images stood out to you as the Scripture passages were read? Why did they stand out?
 
2. Today’s first reading tells the story of David’s fall: though he already had so much, he saw a beautiful woman that was not his wife, he took her for his own enjoyment, which led to shame, even more sins to cover it up, and disaster. This story follows a familiar pattern in the Bible, starting with Adam & Eve in the garden (Genesis Chapter 3); who already had paradise, but saw the beautiful forbidden fruit, took it for themselves, leading to shame, more sins, and disaster. We are all often tempted to think we don’t have what we truly need. Does this story bring to mind any past failures to resist temptations in our own lives? Can we remember times when we were able to resist temptations instead?
 
3. In our second reading St. Paul invites Christians, being strengthened by God’s Spirit, by faith in Jesus, and grounded in love, to consider the vast love of Christ and in Him be filled with God’s fullness. For St. Paul, understanding the love of God was the powerful source of life for Christians. Reflect for a moment on what it means for you (the real you, failures, warts, and all) to be loved by Jesus Christ enough for Him to die for you. What does this amazing truth stir up in your mind or heart? [If anyone feels able to share their response in a word or two here, please do].
 
4. In the Gospel reading today, starting with only one boy’s little lunch, Jesus miraculously provides more than enough food for thousands of hungry people. Throughout Scripture and history, God has done amazing, seemingly impossible things through His people, providing in ways no one could have imagined when it seemed there wasn’t enough. What are the concerns on our hearts today that we can bring before the LORD? What tempts us to think we don’t have what we need (as individuals and as a Church), and will we choose to bring these needs to Jesus, trusting in His love for us, even if He may respond in ways we cannot yet imagine?