INTRODUCTION
This is the second week of our three-week series entitled The Big Three. Last week we were challenged to walk humbly. It is so easy to see the desperate need for humility in our world…in everyone else’s, that is. These next two weeks will help us all take a deep inventory of just how humble we are (or where we have room to grow). This week we turn to loving mercy. We heard that “Mercy demands intimacy and action.” We get to chose what, if anything, we do about the injustices around us and around the world. This series can change the lives of those in Zambia, but the hope is that it also changes us!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Let’s look backwards before we look at the topic for this week. We have all had a week since we heard the message about “walking humbly.” With that as the lens, what did you learn about how humbly you walk?
“Mercy is responding in a time of need.” How would you say you respond to need in general?
Can you remember a time that someone responded to your need with mercy and how it impacted you? Please share if you like.
Psalm 12:5 refers to the “helpless.” God wants us to be extensions of His mercy, concern, provision and love. It is so easy to think that our little bit of help does not matter, except that it matters immensely to the individual who could go from helpless to being helped. What can you do to align more closely with what matters to Jesus in terms of how you show mercy?
“If you are willing to get closer to people who are suffering, you will find the power to change the world.” How do you respond to suffering?
The Good Samaritan did not allow his schedule, indifference, or any other excuses to keep him from need. He then sacrificed greatly to meet those needs. What excuses are you tempted to allow you to walk past a mercy opportunity?
Affirming the dignity of children in Zambia is an incredible opportunity for us and for those children. What are other ways you can actively affirm the dignity of those around you?
MOVING FORWARD
We have until 9:00pm on Sunday to register to sponsor a child who will then choose their supporter this Wednesday. We will then find out who chose us next weekend. Please text capechristian to 56170 if you are interested in doing this.
Let’s do all we can to restore dignity, provide hope, offer life, and sacrifice what we have so that others can be helped. May the Lord strengthen us as we do our best to prioritize The Big Three.