Fruitfulness on the Frontline: Part 3 - 'Four Tables - Part 2'

This Sunday, Simon Lace brings us the talk in the latest of our EBC services. We encourage you to reflect on the bible text and join us in the prayer that follows below.
 
Here are some questions to consider:

Readings:

Joel chapter 2 verses 12 - 16

Yet even now, says the Lord,
    return to me with all your heart,
with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
     rend your hearts and not your clothing.
Return to the Lord, your God,
    for he is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love,
    and relents from punishing.
 Who knows whether he will not turn and relent,
    and leave a blessing behind him,
a grain-offering and a drink-offering
    for the Lord, your God?
 Blow the trumpet in Zion;
    sanctify a fast;
call a solemn assembly;
     gather the people.
Sanctify the congregation;
    assemble the aged;
gather the children,
    even infants at the breast.
Let the bridegroom leave his room,
    and the bride her canopy.

Matthew chapter 16 verses 16 - 18

Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.

Matthew chapter 18 verse 20

‘For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’



Prayer and Reflection:

Loving God, thank you that you have brought each one of us here to gather with each other and with you. Thank you for this holy and intimate time of Communion with You and with each other. Help us to have courage and boldness in inviting others to come to your table too.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.



Questions to Consider

1. Why do you come to church? What brought you? Did someone invite you?
2. Why do you keep coming? Think about this deeply.
3. Who could you invite – and what’s your next step?
4. Why do you want them to come to church? What do you want for them, really?
5. Are you praying about your role on your ‘frontline’, and about the challenges and opportunities to be God’s Ambassador there?