Week 2

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Text: Matthew 14:1–13 | Topic(s): Grief, Loss
Big Idea of the Message: After hearing of his cousin John’s death, Jesus seeks solitude before returning to his ministry.
Application Point: Solitude makes a space for grief—and ultimately for hope. A time apart can help us heal after suffering a loss.

Take some time to share:
• One thing that you are thankful for this week.

• One thing you need.

• How can the group help?

Bible Discussion: Read Matthew 14:1-13
• What about this passage stands out to you as you read?

• Why do you think Jesus retreated after the horrific death of John the Baptist?

• Think back on the relationship that Jesus and John the Baptist shared with one another. What must he have been feeling upon hearing of his death?

• Consider the power of what comes next (the feeding of the 5000), in context with what has just happened. Jesus went away to be alone, and the crowds followed; yet he still showed them compassion & mercy.

Application:
“In solitude, we come to know the Spirit who has already been given to us. The pains and struggles we encounter in our solitude thus become the way to hope, because our hope is not based on something that will happen after our sufferings are over, but on the real presence of God’s healing Spirit in the midst of these sufferings” –Henri Nouwen

• Share about a time in your life when solitude provided you relief from pain or suffering.

• Do you often find peace in the quiet, or are you one to constantly feel the void with noise and distractions?

• Have you ever found yourself thinking, “I just don’t know what to say!” in the face of some overwhelming tragedy or loss? Have you ever tried just sitting with someone in their pain without talking? Do you think that would be uncomfortable or more comforting than saying something?

CHALLENGE: Allow yourself a few moments of solitude this week to decompress from the challenges of life. Sit with your discomfort & reflect on how you can find peace and hope in the midst of your struggles.