January 28, 2024
Sermon Audio
Commit to Another | Belong Week 4
Check out this week's sermon on Spotify at:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cameronfmc/episodes/Commit-to-Another--Belong-Week-4-e2f2859
or find it on one of these podcasting platforms:
Five-Day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Stewardship and Service
Bible Reading: Ruth 2:1-3
As we reflect on Ruth's determination and humility in seeking to provide for Naomi, we begin our week contemplating our own call to stewardship. Just as Ruth stepped into the fields to glean what she could, we are called to look at the resources God has entrusted to us and how we might use them to serve others. Consider what unique gifts you have been given and how you might employ them in service within your own community.
Reflection Question: What are the "fields" in your life where you can glean and gather resources to serve those in need?
Day 2: Generosity in Action
Bible Reading: Ruth 2:14-17
Today, we see Boaz's generous heart as he invites Ruth to share in his meal and instructs his workers to leave extra grain for her. This act of kindness extends beyond the letter of the law to the spirit of true generosity. Reflect on how you can demonstrate similar generosity in your own life. Are there ways you can extend your table, metaphorically speaking, to include and nourish others?
Reflection Question: How can you go beyond your obligations to show unexpected generosity to someone in your community?
Day 3: Sharing Our Blessings
Bible Reading: Ruth 2:18-23
Ruth's actions teach us the beauty of sharing blessings. She not only accepts Boaz's generosity but also shares the abundance with Naomi. As you meditate on these verses, think about the blessings you've received and how you can share them with others. Sharing isn't always about material wealth; sometimes, it's your time, attention, or care that can make a significant difference.
Reflection Question: What blessings have you received that you can pass on to others, and how can you make sharing a habitual part of your life?
Day 4: The Early Church's Example
Bible Reading: Acts 2:42-47
Devotional: The early believers modeled a community that shared everything in common, ensuring no one was in need. This level of communal living may not be practical today, but the spirit of their actions is as relevant as ever. Contemplate the sense of fellowship and unity that comes from sharing with one another and how you can foster that within your own circles.
Reflection Question: In what ways can you contribute to a sense of unity and sharing within your faith community or among your friends and family?
Day 5: The Ultimate Sacrifice
Bible Reading: John 3:16 and 1 John 3:16
Devotional: At the end of our week, we turn to the ultimate example of giving – Jesus Christ. As we read these two passages, we're reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made for us and the call to lay down our lives for others. As you end this week, commit to finding tangible ways to sacrifice for others, be it through volunteering, offering support, or simply giving your time to someone in need.
Reflection Question: How can you embody the sacrificial love of Jesus in your everyday interactions with others?
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