Starter: (In pairs)
What is the most desolate place you have ever visited?
Worship:
Focus on the positive things that have given you hope over the last week. Read The Gospel Passages Aloud.
As you listen try to identify with the seeming hopelessness of each scene.
Personal Focus (Personal reflection on the passages, commentary and questions)
Commentary:
Today's readings marvel at the creative, life-giving power of God. Ezekiel tells us that the God who can transform lifeless bones into vital human beings can restore a nation from the death of exile to a life of freedom. In the gospel we see a marvellously dramatic example of the power of God to bring life out of death. The essential message for us is Jesus' pronouncement: "I am the resurrection and the Life: whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die" (John 11: 25).
Personal Focus Questions
(Initially just reflect on the verse that chooses you.
It may help to jot some thoughts down in the spaces provided.)
1. Describe an instance when you felt restored to fullness of life.
2. What signs of hope have you experienced recently?
3. What are the bonds that are hindering you from going forward in the faith?
Life Focus
1. Identify some of the tombstones that are crushing people in our society and
hindering them from knowing "Life in all its fullness".
2. How can we add a faith dimension to those in our society who are concerned with regeneration?
3. How can we as a church/ S.C.C. be obedient to the command given to Lazarus.
"Lazarus, come out!"?
Review Time
What progress have we made with previous plans for action?
Prayer Time
Invite members of the group to name individuals, groups or whole nations entombed in a living death. After each section respond with the words of Jesus: "Lift the stone"
|
