I'm Not Like That! Study Guide

Sermon study guide
I’m Not Like That!
October 29-November 3
On Sunday we heard the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. I encourage you to read and let these questions challenge and encourage you this week. You can also respond or use the website for conversation as well.
Blessings! Pastor Melissa
www.sheridannorwayum.blogspot.com


Monday, October 22, 2007
Luke 18:9-14

The story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector has many messages for the people who originally heard the story and for us today. Where do you see yourself in the story? Which character do you think represents you? Are you okay with that or would you like to see a change in yourself?


Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I man not so much seek to be consoled as to console; the be understood, as to understand; to be loved, as to love; for it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.

How have you been an instrument of God’s peace today? Have there been times when you have not shown love, pardon, faith, hope, light or joy? What kept you from showing those things?


Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Psalm 65: 3
When deeds of iniquity overwhelm us, you forgive our transgressions.

Where have you experienced forgiveness today? What is a moment of forgiveness that you have experienced in your life? Have you shared that with someone else?






Thursday, October 18, 2007
Prayer of Reconciliation:

Gracious God, ruling the earth and its people not by terror but in love; we worship you.We confess that too often our words hurt others and our deeds are selfish; forgive us.In this time of uncertainty and fear, help us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us, in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Doing some of the things in this prayer is difficult. How have you asked God to give you strength and to help you do these things?


Friday, October 19, 2007
We believe in the most High GodWho strengthens us and repays us many more times than we expect.We believe in God who gives generously And who expects the same from all creatures God has made.We believe in God whose utmost, loving sacrifice Is experienced through Jesus Christ who paid it all.
We believe that Jesus Christ consciously and lovingly emptied himself So that we may learn to make sacrifice and live joyfully before God.By Christ's impartial love we learn to love all those on the margins.
We believe in the Holy Spirit who enables us to re-present Jesus to the world We believe that by the power of the Holy Spirit a new community will be created Without the labels of orphan, widow, poor, rich, male and female.
We believe all has been accomplished for deliverance and salvation And is now being lived in flesh even as God is glorified in heaven. (Rev. T. Anne Daniel)
How does this speak to you? How do you love those on the margins? How can we as a church show love to those on the margins?

Saturday, October 20, 2007
God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purpose on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer, Episcopal Church of the USA


What walls separate God’s people? Are there literal walls or are they all figurative walls? What walls have you built to separate yourself?