Here are the questions given out in church, just in case you left yours behind:
Lenten Questions
Week 1
Instructions: You can use these questions—all, some, or none, as you seek to understand the scriptures. Each Sunday as you come to worship, you will have an opportunity to share your (written) insights, either by offering them symbolically, or writing them so others can read and benefit.
Genesis 9:8-17
1. This story tells the tale of the first “Covenant” or agreement between God and his people. Here we see what God promises—to not destroy the Creation through flood. How do you think we, God’s people, are called to respond to that promise, especially in light of what we know now about environmental issues?
2. God’s sign, a rainbow, is a natural phenomenon; there is no mystery for us here. Are there things that the natural world can teach us about our Creator? It is common to look for messages from God in the created world (think of theological responses to natural disasters), but what might the creation reveal about the reality of God? Is God always in control of the natural world?
3. According to the story, the rainbow is a sign of reassurance, showing that God has not forgotten his promise. What in your daily life serves to remind you of God’s love and presence? Can you recall a time or event when you knew that God cared for you?
Mark 1:9-15
1. Notice that Jesus is driven by the Spirit to the place of temptation. What do you think is going on here? We pray “lead us not into temptation.” Is there any connection? Does God test us? What point might there be in being tempted? What does it mean to be tempted?
2. Jesus is out in the wilderness, a common Biblical location for journeys and transitions. What might it mean for Jesus to be in a transition place at this point in his ministry? Think of “wilderness” times you have known (or are now experiencing). What might be the “wild beasts” or threats? What could be the “angels” or blessings?
3. In baptism, we renounce “Satan and all the spiritual forces of wickedness.” What do you think we mean? What spiritual forces of wickedness might be present in our world and what can we do to show we have renounced them?
4. Does it seem to you that the Holy Spirit is present for Jesus in this wilderness time—not as a protector, but then how does the Spirit inspire Jesus and us? What can you use in the week ahead to remind you of God’s presence and call?
3 Responses
Part two , question 3: I think one of the most effective ” forces of Satan” is the feeling we get that nothing spiritual matters. It's easy to get so busy, you forget to mind spiritual issues.
I can't remember which author I'm generally quoting but something like ” the best trick Satan ever pulled was convincing us all that he was not real “. The forces of evil are alive and well, just watch the news!
Cassie
Part one, Question 2: Good question. I don't know how involved the creator is in day to day natural events. I suspect He is, but I've always leaned Calvinist. This question begs a bigger question about the character of God if he is in fact omnipotent. Is He fair? I don't know. I'm glad I don't run the universe. I think we just have to trust that He has more information than we do.
This is not a great answer. These questions are so big Meg! Way to challenge us!
Cassie
Part one, Question 2: Whether or not each natural event is a direct act of God or not, what matters is our reaction to it. If we try to learn from even seemingly random events, that is good. If we take each new physical challenge as a character building exercise then I think good can come out of even terrible events. I still don't know if that is fair or not, and I suspect it's not fair.
I read these questions several days ago and I still have no good answers to several of them. Lots to think about.
cassie again..