BROADCASTS.com

b'

Go Deeper This Week

Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read Matthew 2:1-12.

1. Today is Epiphany Sunday. Pastor Mick defined Epiphany, in this sense, as \\u201cmanifestation of God.\\u201d What does that mean to you? Why would this Sunday be called Epiphany Sunday? Have you experienced any \\u201cmanifestations of God\\u201d in your own life?

2. In what ways is the magi story a \\u201cgreat illustration of grace,\\u201d as Pastor Mick put it?

3. Pastor Mick used this magi story to highlight a Wesleyan understanding of grace. Specifically, he connected the star to prevenient grace, the manger to justifying grace, and the magi return trip to sanctifying grace. Why/how did he make these connections? What do you think about these connections?

4. In what ways do the magi represent us? (Hint:drawn, seeking, changed)

5. Has God ever led you on a magi-like journey in your life? If so, how did it change your life? Are you willing to share with the group?

6. Upon finding Jesus, the magi bowed down, worshipped him, and presented him with their finest gifts. Should our response to Jesus be the same? How can we do these things in our modern world?

7. In what ways is God still wooing you? In what ways are you saying yes to God? And in what ways is God changing you every day?

8. How might the Communion Table, in some way, be our own personal version of the magi story?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, our light and salvation, be present with us and shine upon us here today. Teach us to walk as children of the light, offering our praise and our prayers to you. Just as the magi worshiped the Christ Child and presented him with their finest gifts, may we give ourselves fully to you in joyous celebration, knowing that all we are and all we have belongs to you. And Lord, we pray for those who, even today, are still living in the darkness of this world rather than living in the light of your love, mercy and grace. We pray that your goodness will shine even in the darkest corners of our lives, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.