In order to engage fruitfully in the See, Judge, Act method of bible study we need both an open mind and a willing heart. Our desire is to truly listen to the voice of the Spirit in our midst. Take a deep breath as you invite the Spirit to whisper into your soul as you study ...
Luke 18:15-17 People were bringing even infants to [Jesus] that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’
See (Read the Text closely/Examination:) In this movement we pay attention to the story, the characters, and their context. Read the text slowly as if you were watching this story unfold. How would you describe the scene as it unfolds in your imagination? Who are the characters in the story? As the story unfolds, who do you understand … and who do you identify with?
Why did the parents want Jesus to touch their children … even their infants? What were their feelings as they approached him with these important little ones who had such immense value to them? How do you think they felt when they were turned away? Has anyone ever tried to block the grace of God from reaching out to you and/or people you love? Has anyone blocked the blessings of God upon your life? What was that like for you? How did you react? What lasting impact did it have on your life?
What do you think about the way the disciples acted toward the parents and their children? Can you understand their behavior? Have you ever wondered why parents don't take their children to the nursery ... they don't understand what is going on anyway, right? Have you ever felt like there were some human beings who should not have access to certain places? Why? Who do we “protect” when we block the access of others to these places ... perhaps by extension, the grace of God? Can you think of any reasons the disciples may have acted the way they did? Are these valid reasons for the way they acted? Is there any valid reason for a people/community to block others from full participation in their community? What is it?
Jesus disagreed with the reasoning of the disciples … He looked upon the parents and their children and said, “Let the little children come to me.” Close your eyes and visualize Jesus looking upon the children … now watch as he turns his eyes upon you … Can you see the expression on his face? What emotions do you find in his eyes? What emotions begin to emerge within you at his reaction to catching your eye? How do you respond when someone treats you the way Jesus treated these parents and their children?
Can you hear Jesus proclaim his blessing, “‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ Another word that is used for the “kingdom” is the “reign” of God. What does the reign of God mean to you? What does it mean to “receive” the kingdom? What does it mean to “enter” the kingdom? When do we receive or enter the reign of God? How do we receive or enter the kingdom “as a child?” How important does the reign of God seem to you today?
“Kingdom” language emerged in the days of mighty, and often cruel, “kings” and people “lived” in real kingdoms so they were under the constant control that a king had over his subjects. Jesus tried to "re-image" this kingdom and invite the children of God into a different way of living in community under the reign of God. To what would you compare the kingdom today? What is a way of looking at the kingdom that people might respond to? Complete this thought: The kingdom of God is like …
What is the overall message the writer of this story wishes to convey? What do you think the writer is trying to say to his community? Can you hear that message coming through without explanation? What does Jesus want to say to your community?
Judge (Look at your Life/Spiritual Discernment:) In this movement, we are seeking to examine our own lives as we live in community ... searching the text both keeping it in its original context and bringing it into the "now" through the act of cross-cultural reading. Keeping the context of the passage and your examination of the text in mind, meditate on these questions: In what ways does this passage speak to our community today? What is the good news we need to hear? How should I view my community in light of what I see? What is God's purpose for the community that takes this passage seriously?
Jesus made a difference in the lives of these parents, their children and the disciples. Are we making a difference in the life of our children, our church, our community, our world? How does this passage challenge our way of "being" the church. How can we embody and encourage the flourishing of the kingdom of God … wherever we are … in the church and in the world?
How does this passage challenge the way I live my life? What changes do I need to make in ... my behavior, my perspective, my way of thinking or my way of praying in light of what I have learned through this text? What invitation do I hear the Spirit whispering in my soul?
Act (Take action in Light of your Faith/Transformation:) We are called to work so that the reign of God can be realized in the world today. As we work with creativity and compassion, we follow the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Meditate on these questions with the expectation that God will show you how to take action as you sincerely seek empowerment of Spirit: What steps does my community or do I need to take in order to respond to the invitation of God through this story? Who needs to be involved as I work through my thoughts and feelings about this issue? How will changes happen? How can I make this world a better place for children to live and grow? How can our community support parents as they form the lives of their children? How can we be a part of that formation? What would my life look like if the reign of God were realized in my heart? in my community?
Pray this simple prayer: Dear God, thank you for children and parents. Thank you for Jesus who blesses us and invites us all into your kingdom. Mold me into a faithful follower of Christ so that I can reach out with grace to your children in the world, young and old and all ages in between. Amen.
Bible Reflection and Prayer: When you are ready ... Take a deep breath and engage in a time of praying with Scripture called Lectio Divina, which means "sacred reading." We are using the monastic Lectio Divina method you can find on the Contemplative Outreach Website.
Lectio (Reading) Read the Scripture passage as if for the first time and listen with the "ear of your heart." People were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it, they sternly ordered them not to do it. But Jesus called for them and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’
What phrase, sentence or even one word stands out to you? Begin to repeat that phrase, sentence or one word over and over, allowing it to settle deeply in your heart. Repeat the phrase, sentence or one word, savoring it in your heart.
Meditatio (Reflecting) Reflect as you relish the words. Let them resound in your heart. Let an attitude of quiet receptiveness permeate the prayer time. Be attentive to what speaks to your heart.
Oratio (Responding) Respond spontaneously as you continue to listen to a phrase, sentence or word. A prayer of praise, thanksgiving or petition may arise. Offer your prayer, and return to repeating the word in your heart.
Contemplatio (Resting) Rest in God. Simply "be with" God's presence as you open yourself to a deeper hearing of the Word of God. If you feel drawn back to the scriptures, follow the lead of the Spirit.
As you move from your prayers and go "on your way" take a word or a phrase with you … carry it in your heart to help you stay focused on God's movement in your life ... Peace be with you
No comments:
Post a Comment