Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year B Focus: Ordinary Time Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. Creator and Sustainer, We pause today as we give voice in gratitude for the assurance of your presence with us in communities of joy, hope, love, and peace. As we seek Christ s peace in our lives, may we also commit to sharing that gift. May our lives be living witnesses, demonstrating the fruit of that peace and inviting all to share. We pray for peace in our connections, especially the connections through family. May our family your family refocus from what divides to that which unites us. May all your creation be blessed as we move toward your peaceable kingdom. We give thanks for the gift of your Spirit, which sustains and weaves us together as sacred community. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. Spiritual Practice Prayer of Repetition and Reduction Invite the group members to take a relaxed posture that will allow them to focus on the words that will be spoken. As you read each phrase, pause. Allow the group to rest in the words for two to three breaths before reading the next phrase. Adapted from Psalm 46:10 NRSV: Be still, and know that I am God. Be still, and know that I am. Be still, and know. Be still. Be. Be still. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Be still, and know. Be still, and know that I am. Be still, and know that I am God. Amen. Invite the group to share about this experience of prayer. Sharing Around the Table Mark 2:23 3:6 NRSV One sabbath he was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath? And he said to them, Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food? He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions. Then he said to them, The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath. Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. They watched him to see whether he would cure him on the sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, Come forward. Then he said to them, Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill? But they were silent. He looked around at them with anger; he was grieved at their hardness of heart and said to the man, Stretch out your hand. He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. The Sabbath is sacred time. No work took place on this day of rest. The Pharisees in this passage thought plucking a few pieces of grain violated their interpretation of what was proper on the Sabbath. Jesus tells those who question him: You think you have it all figured out by the way you interpret what is right. The real measure of your understanding is how you apply what you believe to how you treat those in need. Sabbath is a practice of sacred time that is intended to refresh us and prepare us to better care for ourselves and others. As Jesus enters the synagogue he sees a man in need. Jesus calls together the observers and accusers and asks them if it s a violation to do good for someone (in this case, to heal the man) on the Sabbath. Jesus is indignant at their silence. He calls the man to him and heals his disfigurement. The Pharisees do not see this as an act of compassion; they simply see a violation of the law. From the beginning of creation, God has provided the sacred rhythm of rest and response. Sabbath is for us to experience restoration, renewal, and response. Sabbath is a gift we receive when we set aside deadlines, expectations, and the busyness of everyday life and simply spend time being gentle with ourselves. Sabbath is taking time to rest, receive God s grace, and respond with compassion. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Questions 1. Keeping Sabbath is part of a sacred rhythm of work, rest, and compassion. How do you experience this rhythm? 2. God s expectation that we take time for sacred, life-giving rest is the good news this day. Share how you have experienced good news by receiving this gift from God. Sending Generosity Statement Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f). We receive God s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple s Generous Response: Covenant God, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely. In this way may we better prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen. Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn CCS 568, God, Who Touches Earth with Beauty Closing Prayer Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord s Supper Thoughts for Children ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. Creator and Sustainer, We pause today as we give voice in gratitude for the assurance of your presence with us in communities of joy, hope, love, and peace. As we seek Christ s peace in our lives, may we also commit to sharing that gift. May our lives be living witnesses, demonstrating the fruit of that peace and inviting all to share. We pray for peace in our connections, especially the connections through family. May our family your family refocus from what divides to that which unites us. May all your creation be blessed as we move toward your peaceable kingdom. We give thanks for the gift of your Spirit, which sustains and weaves us together as sacred community. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Spiritual Practice Prayer of Repetition and Reduction Invite the group members to take a relaxed posture that will allow them to focus on the words that will be spoken. As you read each phrase, pause. Allow the group to rest in the words for two to three breaths before reading the next phrase. Adapted from Psalm 46:10 NRSV: Be still, and know that I am God. Be still, and know that I am. Be still, and know. Be still. Be. Be still. Be still, and know. Be still, and know that I am. Be still, and know that I am God. Amen. Invite the group to share about this experience of prayer. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Sharing Around the Table Mark 2:23 3:6 NRSV One sabbath he was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath? And he said to them, Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food? He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions. Then he said to them, The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath. Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. They watched him to see whether he would cure him on the sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, Come forward. Then he said to them, Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill? But they were silent. He looked around at them with anger; he was grieved at their hardness of heart and said to the man, Stretch out your hand. He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. The Sabbath is sacred time. No work took place on this day of rest. The Pharisees in this passage thought plucking a few pieces of grain violated their interpretation of what was proper on the Sabbath. Jesus tells those who question him: You think you have it all figured out by the way you interpret what is right. The real measure of your understanding is how you apply what you believe to how you treat those in need. Sabbath is a practice of sacred time that is intended to refresh us and prepare us to better care for ourselves and others. As Jesus enters the synagogue he sees a man in need. Jesus calls together the observers and accusers and asks them if it s a violation to do good for someone (in this case, to heal the man) on the Sabbath. Jesus is indignant at their silence. He calls the man to him and heals his disfigurement. The Pharisees do not see this as an act of compassion; they simply see a violation of the law. From the beginning of creation, God has provided the sacred rhythm of rest and response. Sabbath is for us to experience restoration, renewal, and response. Sabbath is a gift we receive when we set aside deadlines, expectations, and the busyness of everyday life and simply spend time being gentle with ourselves. Sabbath is taking time to rest, receive God s grace, and respond with compassion. Questions 1. Keeping Sabbath is part of a sacred rhythm of work, rest, and compassion. How do you experience this rhythm? 2. God s expectation that we take time for sacred, life-giving rest is the good news this day. Share how you have experienced good news by receiving this gift from God. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Generosity Statement Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f). We receive God s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple s Generous Response: Covenant God, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely. In this way may we better prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Communion Statement We come together to share in the Lord s Supper as a visible witness of loving Christian fellowship and shared remembrance of Jesus Christ s death and resurrection (Doctrine and Covenants 164:4a). All committed followers of Christ are invited to partake, but no one should feel pressured to receive the emblems. We share in Communion as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community. In preparation let s sing from Community of Christ Sings (select one): 515, In These Moments We Remember 516, Coming Together for Wine and for Bread 521, Let Us Break Bread Together 525, Small Is the Table 528, Eat This Bread ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Thoughts for Children Materials: scale made of a stick with a paper cup hanging from each end (instructions follow), five small white rocks, five small gray rocks, 24-inch stick, six 18-inch pieces of string or yarn, marker, two paper cups with three holes punched around the rim of each cup 1. Write Play on one cup and Rest on the other. 2. Tie three pieces string onto each cup, one piece in each hole. 3. On the first cup, gather the long ends of the three strings together and tie them onto one end of the stick. 4. Repeat with the second cup, attaching them to the other end of the stick. 5. Point your finger and extend your arm. Balance the stick on your extended finger like a scale. Ask the children: Do you know what a scale does? (It weighs things etc. Affirm each answer). Let s try an experiment. Let s say the white rocks represent play, and the gray rocks represent rest. Give each child a gray rock and a white rock. Ask children to put all the Play rocks in the Play cup. Ask them to describe what happens (the play cup goes down and the scale is out of balance). Ask children to put all the Rest rocks in the Rest cup. Ask them to describe what happens (the scale balances). Ask children: What would happen if we played and played and never rested? God created us to be balanced. This is called taking time for the Sabbath (or time of sacred rest). God wants us to balance our activity with time for rest; just like the scale balances with play and rest. How can you practice balancing play and rest? Affirm all answers. Thank children and ask them to return to their seats. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 2:23 3:6

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year B Focus: Ordinary Time Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. God who meets us in the midst of our division, breathe into us your Spirit of peace. When we forget to listen to each other, still our mind and soften our tone. When we forget that we belong to each other, call to our memory that our welfare resides in the welfare of others. May we become the building blocks of your peaceable kingdom on Earth. In Christ s name we pray. Amen. Spiritual Practice Confession The practice of confession is to examine one s heart and to bring into the light things that hide in the dark recesses of our being. In this way we can give them to God, ask forgiveness, and be made new in God s mercy and grace. Place your hands in your lap, palms facing up in a posture of openness. I will read the psalm three times, pausing after each reading. In the moments of silence reflect on those things you wish to bring into the light and give to God in an act of confession and repentance. I will close the last period of silence with an Amen. Today s scripture of confession is from Psalm 51:10 12 NRSV: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Moment of silence Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Moment of silence Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Moment of silence Amen. Sharing Around the Table Mark 3:20 35 NRSV and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. When his family heard it, they went out to restrain him [Jesus], for people were saying, He has gone out of his mind. And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons. And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin for they had said, He has an unclean spirit. Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you. And he replied, Who are my mother and my brothers? And looking at those who sat around him, he said, Here are ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother. Jesus family members are concerned because they believe his preaching, teaching, and miracle-working is erratic behavior. They act in love but think Jesus is insane and perhaps harmful to himself and others. The scribes also see Jesus as harmful, but they act from arrogance and contempt. They accuse Jesus of employing Satan, a rival to God and ruler of demons. As he does in other stories in the Gospels, Jesus uses logical thinking to turn his opponents words against them. It can be only the power of God, not Satan, that drives out demons. Jesus effort to correct the charges of doing magic or acting as an agent of Satan wasn t to uphold his credibility or to get out of trouble. Jesus intent was to make sure everyone witnessing the event was aware the power of God was the source of Jesus miracle and ministry. Jesus doesn t have the scribes social and political power and probably doesn t have their formal religious training. Yet, Jesus outthinks them. By challenging the scribes he shows his followers that we don t need social and political power to be about Christ s mission. We just have to be dedicated and willing disciples. The members of Jesus birth family were well-intended when they set off to find him. Their actions showed the care and concern of family. But Jesus expanded the understanding of family to include the disciples and even the crowd of people whose hopes and dreams led them to follow Jesus. Questions 1. Sometimes people make accusations simply because they don t understand. Did an aspect of Christian community ever seem confusing to you? How did you react? How do you feel about it now? 2. How have you experienced the Blessings of Community in your journey of discipleship? 3. How is God calling you to stand with those who are without social or political power? Sending Generosity Statement Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f). We receive God s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple s Generous Response: Covenant God, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely. In this way may we better prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen. Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn CCS 564, Spirit, Open My Heart Closing Prayer ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord s Supper Thoughts for Children ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. God who meets us in the midst of our division, breathe into us your Spirit of peace. When we forget to listen to each other, still our mind and soften our tone. When we forget that we belong to each other, call to our memory that our welfare resides in the welfare of others. May we become the building blocks of your peaceable kingdom on Earth. In Christ s name we pray. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Spiritual Practice Confession The practice of confession is to examine one s heart and to bring into the light things that hide in the dark recesses of our being. In this way we can give them to God, ask forgiveness, and be made new in God s mercy and grace. Place your hands in your lap, palms facing up in a posture of openness. I will read the psalm three times, pausing after each reading. In the moments of silence reflect on those things you wish to bring into the light and give to God in an act of confession and repentance. I will close the last period of silence with an Amen. Today s scripture of confession is from Psalm 51:10 12 NRSV: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Moment of silence Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Moment of silence Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Moment of silence Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Sharing Around the Table Mark 3:20 35 NRSV and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. When his family heard it, they went out to restrain him [Jesus], for people were saying, He has gone out of his mind. And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons. And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin for they had said, He has an unclean spirit. Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you. And he replied, Who are my mother and my brothers? And looking at those who sat around him, he said, Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother. Jesus family members are concerned because they believe his preaching, teaching, and miracle-working is erratic behavior. They act in love but think Jesus is insane and perhaps harmful to himself and others. The scribes also see Jesus as harmful, but they act from arrogance and contempt. They accuse Jesus of employing Satan, a rival to God and ruler of demons. As he does in other stories in the Gospels, Jesus uses logical thinking to turn his opponents words against them. It can be only the power of God, not Satan, that drives out demons. Jesus effort to correct the charges of doing magic or acting as an agent of Satan wasn t to uphold his credibility or to get out of trouble. Jesus intent was to make sure everyone witnessing the event was aware the power of God was the source of Jesus miracle and ministry. Jesus doesn t have the scribes social and political power and probably doesn t have their formal religious training. Yet, Jesus outthinks them. By challenging the scribes he shows his followers that we don t need social and political power to be about Christ s mission. We just have to be dedicated and willing disciples. The members of Jesus birth family were well-intended when they set off to find him. Their actions showed the care and concern of family. But Jesus expanded the understanding of family to include the disciples and even the crowd of people whose hopes and dreams led them to follow Jesus. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Questions 1. Sometimes people make accusations simply because they don t understand. Did an aspect of Christian community ever seem confusing to you? How did you react? How do you feel about it now? 2. How have you experienced the Blessings of Community in your journey of discipleship? 3. How is God calling you to stand with those who are without social or political power? ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Thoughts for Children Materials: 20 30 paper footsteps cut from colored paper, small bags or bowl for each child with three items (small wrapped candies, felt hearts, grapes), painter s tape (to keep footsteps in place) On some footsteps write instructions: 1. Hug someone. 2. Share something from your bag with someone. 3. Smile at someone. Who are the members of your family? Family is the group of people you are related to, you live with, and sometimes other people whom you love. Families come in all shapes and sizes. Jesus says all men and women, girls and boys who follow him are part of his family. What does it mean to follow Jesus? Allow time for children to respond. Following Jesus is more than believing in Jesus. To follow means we walk in his footsteps. This means we care about the people Jesus cared about, and we try to do the kinds of things Jesus did. Place the footsteps on the floor in a path so children can follow, stepping from one footstep to another. Place some close together, some a distance apart (far enough that it is difficult but not impossible for children to follow the steps). We are going to practice following the path of Jesus. Follow the steps, and when you get to one with words on it, follow those instructions. For small children you or another adult may go first to help children understand the instructions. Following Jesus is to love God, ourselves, others, and the Earth. When we follow Jesus we become part of Jesus family. Thank the children for participating and ask them to return to their seats. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 3:20 35 NRSV

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year B Focus: Ordinary Time Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. God of peace, you meet us in our smallness and assure us of what is possible. Remind us that your kingdom is also kin-dom where we remember that we all are interconnected, and we belong to each other. When violence and despair break our bonds to one another, may our small acts of peace be like the mustard seed improbable miracles that bring peace to a world that yearns to be whole. In Christ s name we pray. Amen. Spiritual Practice Surrender To surrender oneself to God is to willingly set aside those aspects of self that seek to control, self-aggrandize, manipulate, or otherwise stand in the way of healthy relationships. We seldom want to acknowledge these traits in ourselves, but to be fully present with God s Spirit of grace we bring all that we are including our flaws. The practice of surrender provides opportunity to name those aspects of our character that we wish to turn over to God. We acknowledge, confess, and ask for healing grace to transform us more fully into the likeness of Christ. Sit in a comfortable position and quiet your mind. In the moments of stillness, think of the aspects of your own character that you wish to surrender to God. Listen and silently respond to the following questions: What behaviors, actions, or traits are unhealthy to body, mind, or spirit? Moment of silence What relationships are affected by this behavior, action, or trait? Moment of silence ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

How might you grow and thrive as you surrender these aspects of your character? Moment of silence Surrender this behavior, action, or trait, to the Spirit of peace and grace. Moment of silence Amen. Suggest the group commit to the practice of surrender each day in the coming week. Offer a short prayer for strength and support for these commitments. Sharing Around the Table Mark 4:26 34 NRSV He also said, The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how. The earth produces of itself, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. But when the grain is ripe, at once he goes in with his sickle, because the harvest has come. He also said, With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade. With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it; he did not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything in private to his disciples. Jesus used everyday things to challenge preconceived notions about God s reign or God s kingdom. Today s passage includes two brief parables that use seeds as the key symbols for the growth of God s kingdom. In the first parable, or story, the farmer plants the seed and watches it grow, even if she does not understand how this happens. But when the harvest is ready, the farmer reaps it with a sickle. The knowledge of how and when the kingdom grows belongs to God, and only God can bring it about, in God s own time. Disciples participate in harvesting by inviting all to the kingdom. The second parable is about the mustard seed. This seed was tiny and black, smaller than vegetable seeds. It grew into a wild, spreading bush larger than vegetable plants. It was tough, resilient, and hard to control. In Jesus day, farmers kept it separate from their vegetable gardens. When it invaded their fields, they pulled it out. The parable speaks of sowing the mustard seed, that is, planting this wild, uncontrollable weed on purpose. His hearers would have laughed. Jesus was saying that God s reign is not intended to be separate from everyday life. We must plant it in the middle of our tiny, cultivated world and watch it take over! It grows wild and spreads everywhere. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Then Jesus adds an image from the Hebrew Scriptures that would have been familiar to his hearers. This tiny seed grows into a bush so large that birds of the air nest in its shade. The reign of God is a strong, resilient bush that grows wild and keeps spreading despite efforts to pull it out. Its branches are large and strong, able to host all the nations (the birds ) of the world that will come and be part of it. For those who did not understand the radically inclusive nature of God s reign, such parables were confusing and strange. Jesus often had to explain his images to his closest followers for them to understand more fully. Questions 1. Where have you seen God s reign beginning to sprout, grow, or bear fruit? 2. How do we unconsciously try to keep the kingdom of God separate from our daily life and activities? 3. How have you recently been challenged to sow the seeds of the kingdom? Sending Generosity Statement Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f). We receive God s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple s Generous Response: Covenant God, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely. In this way may we better prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen. Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn CCS 387, Bring Forth the Kingdom Closing Prayer Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord s Supper Thoughts for Children ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. God of peace, you meet us in our smallness and assure us of what is possible. Remind us that your kingdom is also kin-dom where we remember that we all are interconnected, and we belong to each other. When violence and despair break our bonds to one another, may our small acts of peace be like the mustard seed improbable miracles that bring peace to a world that yearns to be whole. In Christ s name we pray. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Spiritual Practice Surrender To surrender oneself to God is to willingly set aside those aspects of self that seek to control, self-aggrandize, manipulate, or otherwise stand in the way of healthy relationships. We seldom want to acknowledge these traits in ourselves, but to be fully present with God s Spirit of grace we bring all that we are including our flaws. The practice of surrender provides opportunity to name those aspects of our character that we wish to turn over to God. We acknowledge, confess, and ask for healing grace to transform us more fully into the likeness of Christ. Sit in a comfortable position and quiet your mind. In the moments of stillness, think of the aspects of your own character that you wish to surrender to God. Listen and silently respond to the following questions: What behaviors, actions, or traits are unhealthy to body, mind, or spirit? Moment of silence What relationships are affected by this behavior, action, or trait? Moment of silence How might you grow and thrive as you surrender these aspects of your character? Moment of silence Surrender this behavior, action, or trait, to the Spirit of peace and grace. Moment of silence Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Sharing Around the Table Mark 4:26 34 NRSV He also said, The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how. The earth produces of itself, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. But when the grain is ripe, at once he goes in with his sickle, because the harvest has come. He also said, With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade. With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it; he did not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything in private to his disciples. Jesus used everyday things to challenge preconceived notions about God s reign or God s kingdom. Today s passage includes two brief parables that use seeds as the key symbols for the growth of God s kingdom. In the first parable, or story, the farmer plants the seed and watches it grow, even if she does not understand how this happens. But when the harvest is ready, the farmer reaps it with a sickle. The knowledge of how and when the kingdom grows belongs to God, and only God can bring it about, in God s own time. Disciples participate in harvesting by inviting all to the kingdom. The second parable is about the mustard seed. This seed was tiny and black, smaller than vegetable seeds. It grew into a wild, spreading bush larger than vegetable plants. It was tough, resilient, and hard to control. In Jesus day, farmers kept it separate from their vegetable gardens. When it invaded their fields, they pulled it out. The parable speaks of sowing the mustard seed, that is, planting this wild, uncontrollable weed on purpose. His hearers would have laughed. Jesus was saying that God s reign is not intended to be separate from everyday life. We must plant it in the middle of our tiny, cultivated world and watch it take over! It grows wild and spreads everywhere. Then Jesus adds an image from the Hebrew Scriptures that would have been familiar to his hearers. This tiny seed grows into a bush so large that birds of the air nest in its shade. The reign of God is a strong, resilient bush that grows wild and keeps spreading despite efforts to pull it out. Its branches are large and strong, able to host all the nations (the birds ) of the world that will come and be part of it. For those who did not understand the radically inclusive nature of God s reign, such parables were confusing and strange. Jesus often had to explain his images to his closest followers for them to understand more fully. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Questions 1. Where have you seen God s reign beginning to sprout, grow, or bear fruit? 2. How do we unconsciously try to keep the kingdom of God separate from our daily life and activities? 3. How have you recently been challenged to sow the seeds of the kingdom? ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Thoughts for Children Materials: poster board with drawing of a small bush and a large tree, small objects or paper cutouts that easily can be adhered to poster board with double-sided tape (several differentcolor birds, insects, snakes, monkeys, small animals that climb trees), tree coloring pages (images included), basket of crayons Give each child a bird or animal. Ask children how many birds can fit in the small tree. Place birds on a small tree until it is filled. Only two or three should fit. Ask children how many birds can fit in large tree. Place birds and animals on the large tree. The birds and animals all should fit. God s love is like a tiny seed that grows so large there is room for ALL the birds, animals, and people of the world. We share God s love when we are kind to other people, when we care for those who are left out, and when we share our resources (our belongings, our food, our time). Give all children a coloring page and invite them to gather on the floor or around a table to share the crayons and draw pictures in the tree that represent God s love for the world. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:26 34 NRSV

Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year B Focus: Ordinary Time Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. We pray this day for peace in lands distant from our own, as well as our homeland. We know our hopes and dreams are not unlike the hopes and dreams of people living far from us. God of all, we pray for peace in every nation. We see the brokenness in our world. We acknowledge the choosing of sides. We witness the ugliness across the Earth. Grant us the impatience to do something about it. Encourage us to pursue peace. May we be so aware of our brothers and sisters that prejudices and suspicions of humanity will never slip past us. May we be peacemakers and a blessing to all. Amen. Spiritual Practice Gratitude Materials: paper, pens or pencils The practice of gratitude transforms our outlook and attitude into one of thanksgiving and gratefulness. We begin to recognize God s abundant Spirit at work in our lives and the world. Even when things do not go well, we are grateful that God is always present. On your paper, list things that are abundant in your life (friends, family, laughter, belongings, ideas, tasks). o Wait a few moments for people to write. Next to each listing note how you feel about having this abundance in your life. o Wait a few moments for people to write. In silent prayer, express gratitude to God for each thing you have identified. o Wait a few moments for people to offer silent prayer. o Close with Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV

Sharing Around the Table Mark 4:35 41 NRSV On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, Let us go across to the other side. And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing? He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Peace! Be still! Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith? And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? After a long day of teaching Jesus left the multitude to cross the Sea of Galilee to Gentile territory with his disciples. A severe storm arose quickly, as storms do in that area. Even as waves crashed into the boat, Jesus remained asleep in the stern. In fear for their lives, the disciples awakened Jesus. While they were respectful of him as Teacher, they were annoyed that he was not more concerned for their safety. The contrast between Jesus resting in trust and the disciples struggling with fear and confusion speaks to us about nature of faith. The storms of violence and chaos may crash around us, but even then, God is in control. Jesus rebukes the wind and commands the sea to be silent and calm. His words are translated as Peace! Be still! A strong and powerful, command! Jesus then turns and rebukes the disciples for their fear and lack of trust. Ironically, Jesus power over the storm does not dispel their fear. The scene ends with the disciples still fearful or full of awe as they try to understand fully who Jesus is. Questions 1. When have you felt like God didn t know or care about your problems? What did you do to try to wake God up? 2. Who is Jesus to you? Has your perception of Jesus changed over your lifetime? 3. The disciples who walked with Jesus showed fear and doubt. When have you experienced fear and doubt in your faith journey? Sending Generosity Statement Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f). We receive God s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple s Generous Response: Covenant God, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely. In this way may we better prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV

Invitation to Next Meeting Closing Hymn CCS 158, Calm to the Waves Closing Prayer Optional Additions Depending on Group Sacrament of the Lord s Supper Thoughts for Children ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV

Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle. We pray this day for peace in lands distant from our own, as well as our homeland. We know our hopes and dreams are not unlike the hopes and dreams of people living far from us. God of all, we pray for peace in every nation. We see the brokenness in our world. We acknowledge the choosing of sides. We witness the ugliness across the Earth. Grant us the impatience to do something about it. Encourage us to pursue peace. May we be so aware of our brothers and sisters that prejudices and suspicions of humanity will never slip past us. May we be peacemakers and a blessing to all. Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV

Spiritual Practice Gratitude Materials: paper, pens or pencils The practice of gratitude transforms our outlook and attitude into one of thanksgiving and gratefulness. We begin to recognize God s abundant Spirit at work in our lives and the world. Even when things do not go well, we are grateful that God is always present. On your paper, list things that are abundant in your life (friends, family, laughter, belongings, ideas, tasks). o Wait a few moments for people to write. Next to each listing note how you feel about having this abundance in your life. o Wait a few moments for people to write. In silent prayer, express gratitude to God for each thing you have identified. o Wait a few moments for people to offer silent prayer. o Close with Amen. ORDINARY TIME; Scripture: Mark 4:35 41 NRSV