What does it really mean to follow Jesus?
That question is at the heart of our June worship series, The Shape of Discipleship. Scripture shows us that discipleship is a lifelong journey of being shaped and formed by Jesus.
As we think about the Shape of Discipleship, we will explore accounts of Jesus’ ministry in Matthew’s Gospel. We will reflect on how he called ordinary people, healed broken lives, filled his followers with compassion, and sent them into the world to serve. During this series, we will also discover that discipleship is not about having all the answers or being perfectly prepared. It is about responding to Jesus' invitation each day and allowing him to shape us more fully.
We began this series by seeing how Jesus called Matthew and restored those in need of healing. We continued by exploring how Christ's compassion moves us beyond ourselves and into the lives of others. Over the next few weeks, we will be considering the courage, faith, and commitment he gives us as we seek to follow him faithfully.
Each of us is being shaped by something. The question is whether our desire is to be shaped first and foremost by the Lord instead of the other influences and commitments in our lives, no matter how good or important those things are to us. I pray that this series will encourage each of us to listen for Christ's call, trust his leading, and discover the unique ways God is forming us for ministry together as Union Christian Church.
This week, consider two questions: how is Jesus shaping you today, and how is Jesus shaping Union? Below is a prayer to guide us as we reflect on these important questions.
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too.
Gracious and Loving God,
Shape our hearts with your love.
Shape our minds with your wisdom.
Shape our lives with your purpose.
Help us hear your call.
Help us follow where Jesus leads.
Help us serve with love, compassion, and joy.
Continue shaping us, as individuals and together as Union Christian Church,
into the people and the church you are calling us to be.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.