“GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER ”
E R M O N B Y : Rev. OIiver Helsabeck
K E YQ U O T E S
• “Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It is thinking of yourself less.” (Alcoholics Anonymous)
• “Why do we have to be last? Because Jesus is calling us to be. He’s calling us to a new kingdom.”
• “Jesus is not calling us to become doormats for others to walk all over. Instead, he’s calling us to be bridges for others to cross over…to Christ.”
S C R I P T U R E
• Luke 14:1, 7-14 (click on scripture to read online)
P O I N T ST OR E V I S I T
True greatness in God's kingdom comes through genuine humility and selfless service to others. Rather than seeking recognition and status, we are called to willingly take the lowest place and serve those who cannot repay us. Jesus demonstrated this through his own life, having no home, washing disciples' feet, and ultimately bearing the cross. This counter-cultural approach to honor challenges us to welcome the marginalized and serve without expecting recognition or repayment, reflecting the heart of God's kingdom values.
P R A Y E R
O gracious God, open me to your Word and to your will that my heart and mind would be open to you. Help me to see that all are welcome in your sight. Give me a humble heart to welcome all people, who are made in your image. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
• Oliver contrasted two images that can represent a humble person: a doormat, which is “walked all over” and a bridge that is offered for others to cross over to Christ. What does it mean to be a 'bridge' rather than a 'doormat' when serving others?
• Have you ever offered yourself as a bridge for others to cross over to Christ? If not, how can you become a bridge?
• What is it about nurturing others and putting others first that has the potential to restore and renew us? Where do you find the strength to nurture others?
• How can Centenary live more fully into its call to be a church for everyone? How can you help?
• For children and families: What makes some people more important than others? Talk together about what you think makes people important to God.
LI F EA P P L I C A T I O N
This week, intentionally look for opportunities to serve others without seeking recognition. Choose at least one situation where you can deliberately take the 'lower position' and serve someone who cannot repay you. Notice how this impacts both you and them.
Gracious God, thank you for teaching us about true humility through your son, Jesus. Help us to set aside our pride and desire for recognition, replacing it with a servant's heart that seeks to lift others up. Give us the courage to welcome all people to your table, especially those who are often overlooked. May our lives reflect your loving nature. In Jesus' name, Amen.
KINDNESSCHALLENGEFORKIDS
Jesus washed the disciples' feet. What is a chore that you do not enjoy doing that you could do for someone this week to show kindness?
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