Why We Serve - Toolbox For Faith

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Section 1: Opening Prayer

Let us pray. Friends in Christ: Today we give thanks to God and seek God’s blessing as we learn about service. Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. You made the whole earth for your glory; all creation praises you. We lift our voices to join the songs of heaven and earth in thanksgiving for the many blessings you have given us. Renew in us the commitment to use our gifts in the service of others, and especially of those in need. Let us be your hands to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, comfort the weary and outcast, welcome the stranger, care for creation, and be loving neighbors to all people. To you, O God, be glory and honor through your Son, Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, in your church and in the world, now and forever. Amen.

Section 2: Story

Answer in the comments below: What are works of piety and works of mercy?

Section 3: Message

Read John 14:15

Read Matthew 22:34-40

Asnwer the following questions in comments and discuss others answers

Why do we serve?

What is the greatest commandment?

What does this have to do with our service?

Read Colossians 3:12-17

Answer the following in comments and discuss others answers

How does this passage pertain to service?

Why do we serve according to this?

Read Micah 6:6-8

Answer the following in comments and discuss others answers

According to this passage why do we serve?

Read Matthew 25:31-46

Answer the following in comments and discuss others answers

How does this passage help us in our service?

Why do we serve the last, lost, least and little?

Section 4: Learn and Engage

– What are 3 things you learned?
– What is 1 question you still have?
– What part of the lesson did you most identify with?
– What part of the lesson was hardest for you?
– Where have you seen God this week?

Section 5: Closing Prayer

Let us pray. Friends in Christ: Today we give thanks to God and seek God’s blessing as we send go into His creation to serve Him and all whom we meet! Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe. You made the whole earth for your glory; all creation praises you. We lift our voices to join the songs of heaven and earth in thanksgiving for the many blessings you have given us. Renew in us the commitment to use our gifts in the service of others, and especially of those in need. Let us be your hands to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, comfort the weary and outcast, welcome the stranger, care for creation, and be loving neighbors to all people. Prosper the work of our hands. Bless those who receive the fruits of our labor, and may we who are sent receive blessing in return. May the gifts we use and share be signs of your love to all people. To you, O God, be glory and honor through your Son, Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, in your church and in the world, now and forever. Amen.