An Invitation--Come And See!By Nancy Boyle |
to model how a relational study is done and provide questions relating text to the FAW theme for individual or group use. |
The Gospel
of John, probably written and used in an early Christian community about
90 AD, is an invitation to redefine and renew our faith. Framed by a week
of activity at the beginning (John 1:10-2:11) and end (John 12-21), the
writer directs our focus to Jesus and invites us to believe and have life
in all its fullness. (John 10:10, 20:31, 21:25). Come and see.
What drew these young people to John the Baptist in the first place? Were they weary with their life and work? John's life and speech was very different. Were they looking for excitement? John's fiery preaching were certainly entertaining. Were they looking for authentic persons? Attracted by the vibrant personality John pointed out? What do you think made Andrew and Phillip want to invite others? Can you imagine a dialogue between Peter and Andrew?
What would be your questions? How would the invitation need to be framed
for you? What are you looking for?
[A personal connection-- When a friend did a guided meditation for our group, I visited with a smiling Christ who invited me to hold out my hand, tight fisted, full of the stones of the hurts and angers of my life. The stones were collected, polished by time and are still being returned to me, one by one, as precious jewels. When my soul is weary I return to this vision and am refreshed.]
What action do you need to take? More time for quiet? A priority adjustment? A small group to keep you accountable? Reading? Writing? Praying? Giving yourself in service to another? At a school? A nursing home? At home?
Were words like these what the young people in our story heard? Are they words that are spoken for you?
"Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit and you will find rest." Matthew 11:28-29.
Come and see!!!
Suggested Readings: (Both books are available at FAW Resources.)
Nancy Boyle is a worshop leader, teacher and Christian Education Consultant living in Columbia SC.Cry Pain, Cry Hope, Thresholds to Purpose. by Elizabeth O'Connor, The Servant Leadership School, 1987 Sabbath Sense: A Spiritual Antidote for the Overworked, by Donna Schaper, Innisfree Press, Inc. 1997 Bible Basics for the next generation, by Nancy Boyle, 1999 - a collection of Nancy Boyle's relational bible studies (1995-1999)