January 21st Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Follow Me
As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw __________ and his brother __________ casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “_________ ____ and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw _________ son of Zebedee and his brother _______, who were in their boat mending the nets. ___________________ he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.
[Reading above - Mark 1:16-20]
The Gospel of Mark introduces Jesus as an adult and quickly moves Jesus through three defining moments (baptism, testing, and a keen awareness of the world around him) that prepared him to begin his ministry. It is telling that the very first action of Jesus’ ministry is to call disciples to follow his way.
Questions for Reflection:
There is a long tradition of God calling the unlikely to do God’s work. Consider Abraham and Sarah who were elderly and barren and yet were called to parent a great nation, or Moses who was a fugitive and yet called to liberate the Israelite slaves, or David who was a shepherd boy turned unlikely hero, or fishermen to become the first disciples. Why do you think God so often partners with the unexpected?
Jesus’ call to follow was an invitation to travel and live with Jesus—to allow Jesus’ way of life to become the disciples’ way of life. How does the way you live reflect Jesus’ values?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Simon and Andrew, and James and John immediately followed Jesus. That is, they followed without hesitation. In the new week do not hesitate to do the most loving thing in your interactions. At the end of the week check to see if you feel closer to Jesus as your Leader, and if you discovered a little more meaning and joy in your daily life.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice.
Use the journal as a way to:
1. jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures
2. respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes
3. make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons
4. create a to-do list of discipleship actions
5. list questions you want to explore
6. write prayers, stories, poems, or letters, be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com