Starter: (In pairs)
When you are returning home from a journey, what landmarks stand out for miles around to show you are nearing home.
Worship:
You could have a time of praise and thanks for those who have been a great help to you in developing you faith and showing you the way of Christ.
Read The Gospel Passage Aloud.
Re-Read Passage and Commentary
(reflect on these and the personal focus questions in silence)
Commentary:
Israel has been busy at religion but it has been dishonest religion because it has been done only to enhance itself and it is unrelated to the realities of life. Such religion has not touched the larger 'neighbour questions' of economic exploitation. The presence of this God is found in the daily embrace (yoke) of the neighbour - the hungry, the poor, the naked. (Texts for Preaching)
Isaiah reminds people that if they learn to care for one another, they will be able to receive God's care. Their rituals must express a genuine conversion of their hearts. They cannot fast expecting to twist God's arm. Jesus likewise calls his followers to conduct their lives so that they will call attention to the presence of God within them. Salt, light and a city on a hill are clear ways to show what this message means. (Baranowski)
Personal Focus Questions
1. What thoughts come to mind as you read this passage?
What might God be saying?
2. V16 of the gospel reading invites readers to a public discipleship,
do you find this command for openness to be comfortable?
What aspects don't you mind being open about?
What do you prefer to remain hidden?
3. Can you remember anyone through whom God's 'light' shined?
What do you remember about them?
What did they do?
(When you have reflected alone, share what you are able together in threes.)
Life Focus
1. Are there any times when the 'busyness' of religion becomes a stumbling block
for being 'light' in the world?
2. How many stories of 'good news' have you seen in the local/national news this week?
How could we find out more?
3. Many good things happen in our church communities.
How do we enable the 'light' of the good things to 'shine before all people'
so they may 'praise your Father in heaven'?
4. What plans should we make as a result of our reflection?
Review Time
Recall anything from previous weeks which needs attention.
Prayer Time
Place an unlit candle (safety first) in the centre of the room and cover it with a plant pot/waste basket - pray for situations where the light of God is difficult to discern. After a few minutes take off the cover and light the candle and pray for people who try to be a 'light' in the world.
