Same Old Story

For the session to be discussed on July 25, 2021

2 Samuel 11:1-25

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Bert Montgomery

David Adams

The troubling story of David’s abuse of his power with Bathsheba, and then later her husband, reminds us that this is an old and recurring tale. How do we approach abuse within the church, often by ministers? Where are we tempted to cover up such actions rather than seek transparency and justice for victims? What are ways ministers and churches are working to create safe spaces for worship, community and ministry?

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Notes

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Who Asked For That?

For the session to be discussed on July 18, 2021

2 Samuel 7:1-17

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Bert Montgomery

David Adams

In this text, we see the desire expressed to build for God a wonderful Temple. At the same time, it raises the question of what God really wants. Do we sometimes seek to give God what we think God wants or what God says is desired?

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Notes

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Ark in the Park

For the session to be discussed on July 11, 2021

2 Samuel 6:1-23

David Cassady

Crystal Shepherd

Daniel Glaze

David Adams

King David dances as the Ark of the Covenant is brought to Jerusalem. While its power and affects were visible, the Ark was a mysterious reminder of God’s presence. We discuss both our reluctance to grapple with the very real mystery of God, while also celebrating those times when we can, like David, dance for joy at the works of God in our midst.

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Notes

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Left Out

For the session to be discussed on July 4, 2021

2 Samuel 5:1-10

David Cassady

Crystal Shepherd

Daniel Glaze

David Adams

The new King David battles the Jebusites to take their city – a city that becomes Jerusalem and the home for the Ark of the Covenant. As this history is celebrated, we must also simultaneously face the brutal killing of the blind and lame. How do we also consider our own history – full of both accomplishments and evils? We discuss how passages like this require us to be honest about both aspects of much of the history of Israel and of our own country.

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Notes

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Lamenting the Loss

For the session to be discussed on June 27, 2021

2 Samuel 1:1-27

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Daniel Glaze

Bert Montgomery

When David learns of Saul’s and Jonathan’s death, he grieves loudly and publicly. Have we forgotten how to grieve in community or to show our lament? Especially as we are coming out of a pandemic that has caused so much loss, might we need to learn from David the gift of lament? We share our losses and find comfort in the sharing.

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Notes

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Slaying Giants

For the session to be discussed on June 20, 2021

1 Samuel 17:1-58

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Daniel Glaze

Bert Montgomery

This episode considers a familiar text… the story of David and Goliath. Sometimes approached as a children’s story (is it?) the text offers characters in which we may see ourselves, whether it is as the powerful Goliath, the bullying Israelites or the faithful David.

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Notes

* Bert mentioned Bro. Dave Gardner’s Southern retelling of David and Goliath and the Origins of Rock and Roll.

* Bert also suggests checking out an article on David, Goliath, and Sacred Violence (from Journey with Jesus, an e-zine).

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Moving On

For the session to be discussed on June 13, 2021

1 Samuel 15:34-16:13

Crystal Shepherd

Nikki Hardeman

David Adams

Bert Montgomery

As Israel chooses a new king, we watch as their impulse is to select someone bold and strong. Yet, God leads them to the younger brother David, who writes songs and is more sensitive to the real needs of the people — and to God. Leaning on numerous references to the music of the 70s, we discuss how our impulses are often similar, seeking what is “strong” by earthly standards, rather than the sort of leadership that hears and feels and follows God.

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Notes

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God Bending

For the session to be discussed on June 6, 2021

1 Samuel 8:1-22

Crystal Shepherd

Nikki Hardeman

David Adams

Bert Montgomery

Samuel, last in the line of judges for Israel, is confronted by a people demanding a king. In spite of his cautions, the people pursue a king. What happens when we get the things we think we need, but they are actually not good for us? What makes us want more than God’s presence — more than what we have? How can we be satisfied and present in this moment, seeking God’s presence and guidance?

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Notes

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A Burning Vision

For the session to be discussed on May 30, 2021

Isaiah 6:1-8

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Daniel Glaze

Bert Montgomery

Our passage this week is from Isaiah. What does it mean for people of faith and the church to lean into an uncertain future? How do we find the courage to not only face, but to hear God’s vision for what is next? Can we speak the truth with hope?

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Notes

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Breath and Life

For the session to be discussed on May 23, 2021

Psalm 104:24-34

David Cassady

Nikki Hardeman

Daniel Glaze

Bert Montgomery

Are human greed and selfishness contrary to God’s order of creation? For this Pentecost Sunday, how might we hear the voice of the Spirit in all of creation? How does our faith help us live with a greater awareness of our connection with all creation?

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Notes

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