When Your Praise Is Not Enough (Luke 19:37-42) // Sunday, April 2, 2023

When Your Praise Is Not Enough (Luke 19:37-42) // Sunday, April 2, 2023

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Inglewood First UMC reflects on the sermon and scripture from the previous Sunday’s worship. Below, you fill find questions that can be used for Bible Study, small groups or personal devotion. Let the scripture speak in to your life! Expect great things!


Opening Prayer (Wesley Covenant Prayer)

O God, Searcher of all our hearts,
you have formed us as a people and claimed us for your own.
As we come to acknowledge your sovereignty and grace,
and to enter anew into covenant with you,
reveal any reluctance or falsehood within us.
Let your Spirit impress your truth on our inmost being,
and receive us in mercy, for the sake of our Mediator, Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Scripture: Luke 19:37-42 (Common English Bible)

37 As Jesus approached the road leading down from the Mount of Olives, the whole throng of his disciples began rejoicing. They praised God with a loud voice because of all the mighty things they had seen. 38 They said,

“Blessings on the king who comes in the name of the Lord.
    Peace in heaven and glory in the highest heavens.”

39 Some of the Pharisees from the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, scold your disciples! Tell them to stop!”

40 He answered, “I tell you, if they were silent, the stones would shout.”

41 As Jesus came to the city and observed it, he wept over it. 42 He said, “If only you knew on this of all days the things that lead to peace. But now they are hidden from your eyes. 

Summary:

For the season of Lent, we journey with Jesus through the wilderness. As Jesus’ was prepared for his public ministry in the wilderness, through the season of Lent, God prepares us for how to live in the Resurrection. Embrace Lent, as we learn to live with Jesus!

When Jesus rides into Jerusalem as the king of Israel, he fulfills the prophecy foretelling his coming. He is surrounded with praise. Afterward, he looks over the city and weeps. More than praise, Jesus wants us to love him and love one another.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What is a word, phrase or image that comes to mind when you read or hear the text?
  2. Why is it important to give God praise? Is the difference between praise and love? If so, what is it? How do we show Jesus we love him?
  3. What does this scripture teach about praise?
  4. What does God invite you to do, change or be through this passage?

Discipleship Huddle Questions:

  • How is it with your soul?
  • How does your soul prosper?

Closing Prayer

God who surprises us, help us to be surprised by an encounter with you. Keep us attentive to your presence as we go about our week.