Guided Faith
by Bekah and Stephen Hirt
It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told to you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.
1 Peter 1:12
Throughout our lives we are touched by people in their faith, encouragement, or even their words that guide us in our own understanding of the world around us. When I was a child my dad always used the saying,
Work hard and do your best”
and this is how I made my way to school every day. I knew that he was thinking of me and whenever I felt alone or sad I would think of the words that he told me that morning. Even as I went to college I heard these words as I walked to class and understood that my dad was with me during my journey. Now moving forward and thinking more about my faith I am reminded of another phrase my dad said to me,
By serving others, we serve Christ.”
Reminding me that in all we do we must be Christ centered and serving our neighbor both locally and around the world. Both of these sayings have something in common, they focus on love and reaching out to others when they need you. When we are serving our community, neighbors and all those around us, we are being the hands and feet of Jesus. I now encourage you to ponder these questions and reflect on how we have been encouraged and touched by others and how we can do the same for others around us.
- What are different questions or sayings or memories you have that support you in your faith journey? Why are they important to you?
- How do we serve others in our community? How does the work we are doing at Grace Lutheran Church help share the love and forgiveness of the Risen Christ?
- How has God called you to use your talents, passions, and strengths to serve others and the kingdom of God?
- Recall a time in which you were guided by another in your faith journey. How did it help you discover something about yourself? Explain.
- How could your words and story help inspire another person and what is the importance of sharing that piece of ourselves?
I hope that your time to ponder these questions have given you a sense of connection with moments and people that have shaped your story and your faith. I pray that you are encouraged to share your story with another and be a light and beacon of hope and truth. Please pray with me:
God of light and love, Thank you for the community and bringing your people together to share, question, and live in your love. Guide us this week to seek opportunities in which we are called to serve and be the hands and feet of Jesus. God, we thank you for all you have done for us and all you will do for your people. Father, we ask you to be with those who are feeling broken, lost, alone, or sick. Please be with them as we know you are with all your children. Thank you for this day and bring us love and peace for the days to come. In your holy and restorative peace. Amen!
