Living the Season after Pentecost at Home

Transcription

1 Bannock recipe 500 ml/ 2 cups flour 20 ml/4 teaspoons baking powder 5 ml/1 teaspoon salt 60 ml/ 4 tablespoons oil water or milk for mixing Mix ingredients and slowly add water or milk until you have a doughy consistency. Knead until well mixed. Grease and heat a frying pan. Form the dough into thin cakes and dust lightly with flour. Place in the frying pan. Wiggle the pan every so often to keep the bannock from sticking. Once a bottom crust has formed and the dough has hardened enough to hold together, turn them. Cooking takes approximately minutes. Creating a sacred space We can spend time with God anywhere, but sometimes it can be helpful to have a space that is set aside for reflection. Some have a favourite spot outdoors. Others create a special place in their home. Choose a quiet corner or unused space. Provide comfortable seating; chairs are great, of course, but you might also use a variety of comfortable cushions. It can be helpful to have a low table to act as a focal point, or provide a surface for writing and artistic activities. Here are some suggestions for decorating the area. Place on the wall a picture that will encourage reflection and prayer. This can change from 16 time to time to reflect the season. In this Season after Pentecost you might use a scene from nature. Place on a table objects that are meaningful to you. Take turns choosing objects to prevent clutter. Provide writing and drawing materials. Place them in a basket to keep everything tidy. You may wish to add a meditative tool such as a small fountain or finger labyrinth. Hang wind chimes where they will catch the breeze and remind you of the movement of the Spirit. Plants act as natural air purifiers and help us connect with God s creation. Living the Season after Pentecost at Home May 22, 2016 Trinity Sunday Voice of Wisdom Proverbs 8:1 4, Read Proverbs 8:1 4, in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Wisdom s Story on p. 28 of Daily I was God s delight delighting in the human race. This week, we meet the wonderful figure of Wisdom. This lively, vivacious playful being is created by God prior to everything else and is actively involved with God in Creation. Spend some time outside enjoying the beauty of God s creation this week. Try to engage all your senses. Listen to the sounds of nature and take note of the fragrances, colours, and textures in the natural world. Invite family members to go for a short walk to collect a treasure to bring home. These treasures should be things such as gumnuts, stones, or shells, rather than things that are still alive. Arrange your items around a candle, light the candle, and give thanks for the beauty of creation. Creator God, Wisdom calls out to us each day and longs to be heard. Help us to hear Wisdom s voice and join the dance of caring for creation. Amen. Pentecost The Season after Pentecost is the longer season of the Christian year. It begins after the great celebration of Pentecost and continues until the Sunday before Advent. It is long. It is vibrant. It is active. It is a time to reflect on the ways we can live out God s call no matter where we are or what is happening. Through the lectionary readings we will be reminded of God s faithfulness and be challenged to show God s love by loving others. 1

2 May 29, nd Sunday after Pentecost Voice of a New Song Psalm 96 August 28, th Sunday after Pentecost In Your Place! What Place? Luke 14:1, 7 14 Joy Read Psalm 96 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Psalm 96 on p. 40 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church Then shall all the trees of the wood shout for joy The entire world praises and glorifies God, every day. Sometimes we notice it and join in; sometimes we get caught up in other things of life and do not recognize the goodness of God. Yet creation goes on rejoicing: the sea thunders, the fields are joyful, the trees shout for joy! Talk together: When do you feel overwhelmed by the goodness of God? What makes you want to shout for joy? Say to one another: May God who made the sun and the moon light your path. May God who made the earth and the sea make fruitful your days. May God of our music keep your heart singing. Amen. Give glory to God Read Luke 14:1, 7 14 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story The Invitation on p. 196 of When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. At a dinner party, Jesus watches guests jostling to get the best seats in the house and talks about the need for humility. God s reign is not about who comes first; it s about a gracious response to being invited. Jesus then speaks to those issuing invitations. Going against the accepted norms of the day, Jesus challenges his disciples to invite those who are unable pay them back. We are all guests at God s table, not by right or because we deserve it, but by gracious invitation. Make welcoming placemats to use the next time you have guests. Print the words Welcome friends on heavy paper and decorate as desired. Talk about what hospitality means. Who are some people you know who demonstrate authentic hospitality? How might your family practice hospitality? Welcoming God, thank you for inviting us to be members of your household. Help us to be as welcoming and generous to others. Amen. Welcome to God s table! 2 15

3 weighed down or freedom 14 August 21, th Sunday after Pentecost Breaking the Rules Luke 13:10 17 Read Luke 13:10 17 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Set Free on p. 184 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church The entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things [Jesus] was doing. Jesus does not hesitate in telling a woman bent over for a virtual lifetime that she is free. This angers the religious leaders who thought they knew the proper ways of doing things, but it makes such an important point. Part of the purpose of life is to share it with others, and never to hesitate or hide behind rules and propriety. Gather some rocks and a blanket. Place the blanket on the floor and invite family members to name things that might weigh people down and bend them over. For every suggestion, place a rock on the blanket. Together lift the blanket to feel the weight. Then name things that can bring freedom. How might we bring hope into difficult situations? For every suggestion, remove one of the rocks. When all the rocks have been removed, hold the edge of the blanket and lift it up so it balloons upwards like a parachute. As we focus our energies on lifting the burdens of others, something miraculous happens. Our own burdens diminish. We become happier. There is more substance to our lives. David S. Baxter Discuss: God wants us to enjoy life to the fullest, and Jesus demonstrates that. How can you help share life with others? Loving God, when we feel down, your love lifts us up. Teach us ways to be your love in the world. Amen. June 5, rd Sunday after Pentecost Voice of the Silenced 1 Kings 17:8 16, (17 24) Read 1 Kings 17:8 24 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Bread for Elijah on p. 52 of Elijah said Do not be afraid This week we meet Elijah, a daring prophet of God who is experiencing persecution for his courageous stand against the abuses of King Ahab. On the run, Elijah flees to the wilderness. God provides for Elijah s needs by sending him to a widow in Zarephath, who feeds and shelters the prophet. Though the widow is facing imminent starvation she shares what little she has and, in so doing, shows God s love and care. God responds by transforming the widow s remaining stores of flour and oil into an unlimited supply. Ordinary things become extra-ordinary and life giving. Make bread together. If you have time, enjoy the marvel of watching yeast bread rise. If time is a little short make some bannock (see recipe, on p. 16). Eat the bread together and give thanks for God s provision, and seek God s ways for all in the sharing gifts of food and clean water. Talk about your community. What needs are you able to identify? What small gifts of care and compassion could you offer to make a difference? When you go grocery shopping this week, pick up a few extra things for the food bank. Generous God, we are grateful for the gift of food. May we not take it for granted but receive it and share it so that all may have daily bread. Amen 3

4 June 12, th Sunday after Pentecost Voice of Justice 1 Kings 21:1 10, (11 14), 15 21a Read 1 Kings 21:1 10, (11 14), 15 21a in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story King Ahab, Queen Jezebel, and the Prophet Elijah on p. 64 of The word of [God] came to Elijah the Tishbite This week we explore the story of a covetous King, a deceitful plot, and a prophet who courageously stands up for justice. King Ahab has set his heart on a vineyard that belongs to someone else. When Naboth the owner refuses to sell, Ahab s wife has him falsely accused of cursing God and the King and Naboth is killed. Ahab joyfully takes possession of the vineyard and it looks as if greed and intrigue has triumphed. But God sees this terrible injustice and sends the prophet Elijah to announce that Ahab and Jezebel will never enjoy the vineyard in peace because of what they have done. Share a snack of grapes and read the story of Naboth s vineyard from a children s Bible, or retell it in your own words. Afterwards talk about the choices Naboth, Ahab, Jezebel, and Elijah had to make. What were the results of those choices? Light a candle and ask family members to name things that are going on in their lives and in the world that they feel are unfair. Pray about these things and ask God to show you how you might make a difference in these situations. Say the response line together after each sentence: God, lead me in your way. When I have to choose (pause) When I am afraid (pause) When I want something that isn t mine (pause) When I have hurt someone (pause) When I am trying to work out the right way to go (pause) August 14 13th Sunday after Pentecost Faith: Against the Odds Hebrews 11:29 12:2 Read Hebrews 11:29 12:2 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Run the Race on p. 172 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and sin Last week, we learned that we are not alone. This week, we are reminded that part of that is because a huge cloud of witnesses faithful people of all times and places surrounds us. It is as if we are in a stadium preparing to run a race, and the crowd is larger than we can imagine; and even larger still, all cheering for us, and encouraging us. Such is the journey of faith; we undertake it as part of God s endless and timeless community. Together, try to name and remember some of the faith stories that are mentioned in this passage from the letter to the Hebrews. (You may want to eliminate verses 35 37). Is there one that reminds you of your own family story? Consider who are some of the people who make up your cloud of witnesses. Who are people who have helped you grow in faith? Who are those who serve as role models for you? These might be people you know, or ones you don t know. Make a collage of pictures of such people. Alternatively, you might add words, cut from newspapers (or cut letters and put them together), that express ideas related to what they might have done words like justice or caring. God of our being and doing: We come from so many places; places of play and study and work; places of joy and worry and fears; places of loneliness and friendship. We give you thanks that you meet us at all the places in our lives. Amen. faith 4 13

5 stories of family 12 August 7, th Sunday after Pentecost Faith into the Unknown Hebrews 11:1 3, 8 16 Read Hebrews 11:1 3, 8 16 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story By Faith on p. 160 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Last week, we were challenged to trust in God rather than our own resources. This week, we meet some of our faith ancestors down through the ages who did just that. Abraham and Sarah acted on the promises of God and left their home to journey to an unknown land that God had promised to their descendants. They continued to believe even when it looked as if it would be impossible for that promise to be fulfilled. Although they died before they saw the promise totally fulfilled, they had a vision of what would be and chose to be faithful in the present moment. We are called to do the same. Take some time to enjoy the stories of Abraham and Sarah this week. You will find them in the book of Genesis. Get out family photograph albums and family mementos. Share stories of family members or friends who have encouraged and affirmed you in your faith journey. What does it mean to live as faithful people today? What is our vision of God s dream for our world? How might this shape the way we live our lives? How can we encourage and support others in their faith journey? Faithful God, give us strength to live in your ways as our faith ancestors did. Help us to encourage one another as we journey in life and grow in faith. Amen. June 19, th Sunday after Pentecost Voice of Silence 1 Kings 19:1 4, (5 7), 8 15a Read 1 Kings 19:1 4, (5 7), 8 15a in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Hearing a Silent Voice on p. 76 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church and after the fire a sound of sheer silence. Once again the prophet Elijah fears for his life; Queen Jezebel wants him dead and has ordered him killed. Elijah flees to the wilderness and this time he is ready to give up. He is exhausted mentally, physically, and spiritually. In anguish, Elijah prays that he might die and questions his very calling as a prophet. In the midst of Elijah s deep despair, God is present. Elijah is given what he needs to recover: food, rest, and stillness. Then, when the time is right God meets with Elijah, confirms his call as a prophet, and gives him a new task. Invite family members to plan and create a sacred place where they can spend quiet time with God. Where will it be? How will it be decorated? See the suggestions for creating a sacred space (p. 16) for ideas. Share stories of times when you experienced God s presence in a powerful way. How might we hear God s voice today? What kinds of things might God want to say? Thank you, God, for being with us all the time, especially when we are worn out. In moments of stillness, may we feel you near us giving us the strength that we need. Amen. G o d is present 5

6 June 26, th Sunday after Pentecost Voice of Change 2 Kings 2:1 2, 6 14 July 31, th Sunday after Pentecost Life Consists of Luke 12:13 21 Read 2 Kings 2:1 2, 6 14 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Picking Up the Mantle on p. 88 of SeasonsFUSION (copies available from your church [Elisha] took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen In this week s story, Elijah comes to the end of his life and is taken away in a chariot of fire. As Elijah is swept into the whirlwind, his mantle falls off and Elisha picks it up. The mantle is a symbol of leadership. With it, Elisha is able to part the waters of the Jordan River, just as Elijah had done. The authority and power of Elijah has been passed to Elisha and it is his turn to share God s messages with the people. Create a picture of Elijah being swept up in a whirlwind of fire. Provide a variety of fiery coloured art supplies to create the flames of the whirlwind. We sometimes go through times when loved ones are taken into places we cannot follow (children starting school, loved ones going into surgery, the death of elderly parents or friends). Share an experience like this. Talk about the people you know who might benefit from hearing God s message of love. How can you share this message with them? Dear God, thank you for your love that we have received from others. Help us to pass your love to others. Amen. Read Luke 12:13 21 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Wanting Too Much on p. 148 of A man asks Jesus to mediate in a dispute about inheritance. Although it was customary for rabbis of that time to settle disputes, Jesus refuses to be drawn into that role and instead warns about all kinds of greed. Jesus follows his warning by telling the parable of a hard working farmer who works tirelessly to build up wealth and security. The man has all the appearances of being successful, and yet God refers to him as a fool because of his focus on the things he owns. He was concerned about his wealth rather than on his relationship with God and others. The farmer has stored up many treasures, but has not been rich towards God. Have some fun dramatizing the parable. Use your imagination to fill in some of the blanks. What do you think the farmer s servants said when they had to build a bigger barn? What about the farmer s neighbours? You might also imagine the parable with a different ending. What might have happened if the farmer had shared some of his crops? Talk together as a family about the things you have that you could share with others (this will include your possessions, but could include other things). Choose one thing that you will share this week. Happiness is not so much in having as sharing. We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Norman MacEwan Generous God, help us to follow the example of Jesus, sharing with generosity until all have enough. Amen. Sharing 6 11

7 July 24, th Sunday after Pentecost Passion of Prayer Luke 11:1 13 Read Luke 11:1 13 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story How to Pray on p. 136 of Seasons- FUSION (copies available from your church [Jesus] said to them, when you pray, say As other teachers of the time were doing, Jesus provides a prayer for his followers. It is a prayer for the community and focuses on the coming of God s realm. God is addressed and described as holy. The hope that God s realm and God s desires for Earth will come is proclaimed. Finally, the prayer asks God to provide for three basic needs: food, restoration of community through forgiveness, and protection. Jesus immediately tells a parable that encourages his followers to keep praying and to never give up. Experiment with different forms of prayer. You might sing or dance to worship music, drum out your feelings, express your needs to God through painting or poetry. Decorate a box with art supplies you have on hand to make a prayer box. On slips of paper write prayer starters or suggestions, such as Thank you, God, for or Pray for those who are sick. Place the slips of paper into the box; when you gather to pray, draw one of the slips out of the box and use it as a prayer starter. Loving God, we thank you that you love us and are always ready to hear our prayers. Help us to keep on praying and never give up. Amen. July 3, th Sunday after Pentecost Voice of Unexpected Wisdom 2 Kings 5:1 14 Read 2 Kings 5:1 14 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story An Unusual Healing on p. 100 of Naaman, the great general, is sick with a skin disease. Seeking healing, Naaman goes to the people in power to find the help he needs. However, God s healing and restoration is not to be found in royal palaces. Instead, it is accomplished through the words of those who are considered insignificant: a servant girl, a messenger sent by the prophet, and the persuasive words of servants who soothe the pride of an offended general. Finally, Naaman washes in the waters of a muddy river and is healed. Naaman was looking for a dramatic healing, but discovered that God works in unexpected ways. Write affirming messages to one another. Place these messages in unexpected places such as inside shoes, in coat pockets, on pillows, and under dinner plates. Light a candle and invite family members to name people or situations that need healing. Pray together, asking God to bring healing into those situations. When has God spoken to you in unexpected ways? Who or what spoke for God at this time? How might we be unexpected prophets, voices of unexpected wisdom, caring for others in small and simple ways? God, you speak to us in surprising ways, through unexpected people. May we be your love to others through small and simple actions. Amen. god heals 10 7

8 July 10, th Sunday after Pentecost Beyond Expectations Luke 10:25 37 July 17, th Sunday after Pentecost Listening, Learning, and Living Luke 10:38 42 Read Luke 10:25 37 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Who Is a Neighbour? on p. 112 of Read Luke 10:38 42 in an age-appropriate Bible or story Bible, or the story Mary and Martha on p. 124 of Who is my neighbour? Who is my neighbour? The parable of the Samaritan wasn t a favourite the first time it was told. How shocked Jesus audience must have been when a Samaritan was chosen to be a model of love and compassion to a neighbour in need. The parable was told in response to the question, Who is my neighbour? Interestingly, Jesus doesn t actually answer the question. Instead, he tells a story that shows us how to be a good neighbour and draws us back to God s intent. We are called to live in a way where everyone receives love and compassion. Dramatize this story with puppets or other toys. Afterwards, talk about the ways in which the Samaritan showed what it means to be a good neighbour. How might we show kindness and love to others? Think about the people you know who may be new to your community or who may feel lonely. Talk about how you can be good neighbours to them. Share experiences of times when help and compassion came from unexpected sources. How did this change you? What acts of kindness and compassion given and received have been a part of your life? When is it hard to be a neighbour? Loving God, help us to be good neighbours, to help others when we can, and to be open to hospitality and friendship extended by others. Amen. a woman named Martha welcomed [Jesus] into her home. Jesus and his disciples visit the home of close friends, Mary and Martha. Mary does not join her sister Martha in providing the necessities of hospitality. Instead, Mary places herself at the feet of Jesus, the traditional place for disciples of a teacher, and soaks up Jesus teachings. As if that weren t surprising enough, Jesus welcomes Mary s participation in the theological discussion. Martha asks Jesus to send Mary off to fulfill her traditional obligations. But Jesus affirms that now is the time to sit still and learn about God s way, later they can do the work together. Make a door hanger to let others know when you are praying. Cut out a square from card stock/ heavy paper. Print the words Shh, I m taking time with God. Decorate as desired. Punch two holes in the top edge and add a yarn loop for hanging. Place the hanger on your doorknob. Gather together a collection of children s books that reflect God s way. Place them in a basket or box in a special place. Try to schedule regular story times and enjoy growing together. God of wisdom, sometimes it can be hard to know when we should be up serving others and when we should sit still listening to you. Help us in making choices. Amen. Taking time with God 8 9