Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 21:12-17 (NLT) ~Jesus Clears the Temple~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The encouragement for those who are financially taken advantage of by spiritual leaders. The Warning for spiritual leaders. The opportunity for us now. Jesus removed what wasn’t supposed to be there to make room for what was supposed to be happening. The contrast between the children and the spiritual leaders of the people. The physical picture of the spiritual truth.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 21:1-11 (NLT) ~Jesus' Triumphant Entry~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Coming in strength, power restrained. A Humble entry, not a quiet one going without notice, but causing an uproar. The turning point of Jesus ministry embracing the praise of the people instead of telling people to not say anything. Jesus’ example of submission to the Father’s will, living out the fulfillment of scripture. The Bittersweet celebration.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 20:29-34 (NLT) ~Jesus Heals Two Blind Men~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The persistence of the men who refused to be quiet and only shouted louder. The voices in life that discourage us from going to God. Wanting to see is a request all people should be asking for. God being moved to do something to bring us back to Himself.

Reading Psalms 24 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. David’s description of those who seek to live in right relationship with God and people. The imagery of the power of the presence of God. Call and response, giving the congregation and opportunity to make the declaration and glorify God. Going to Narnia.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 20:17-28(NLT) ~Jesus Again Predicts His Death, Jesus Teaches About Serving Others~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  The mother’s request is a picture of all peoples desire for their children to be elevated or successful and honored. The picture Jesus paints is one of a suffering servant who submits to the Father’s will be done. New Puppy analogy. The repeated message that the first will be last.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 20:1-16 (NLT) ~Parable of the Vineyard Workers~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Paying the last hires before the first hires. The greatest reward is being in God’s presence. Sympathizing with the first workers because of our worldly perspective of comparison, instead of celebrating the generosity we all get to take part in. When you are late to the party, you still get the full party experience. The free gift not earned by working harder or longer.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:16-30 (NLT) ~The Rich Man~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The man looking to earn favor. We should begin by recognizing that God alone is truly good. The selfish nature of humanity and our self-focused minds. Giving up your life to save it, changing your mind about what is valuable. The encouragement in it being humanly impossible.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:13-15 (NLT) ~Jesus Blesses the Children~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Getting distracted from what God sees as important to rush off and accomplish the next thing or task. The relationship and interaction of Jesus with the children. The good thing the parents were trying to do. The importance of the Blessing and Jesus desire to bless others.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:1-11 (NLT) ~Discussion about Divorce and Marriage~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God’s intention in the beginning is still relevant today. Focusing on laws and standards keeps you from looking to forgive. The heart hardens the longer it values meeting standards more than relationship. Dying to self in the pursuit of Jesus and in marriage. Having the Holy Spirit to help us respond in love.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 18:21-35 (NLT) ~Parable of the Unforgiving Debtor~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Peter’s question coming after Jesus gives the steps for reconciliation between believers. Seven times Seventy-seven, Love keeps no record of wrong. Operating out of fear. Jesus breaking the chain reaction of unforgiveness and giving us the opportunity to do it too. The selfishness of the debtor, the human condition.