Be a hopeful presence

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Day 1: Understanding the Shift

Devotional:
Reflect on the moment in Luke 4 when Jesus is praised one instant and nearly cast away the next. Consider how the expectations of the people in Jesus’ hometown changed when they realized his message wasn’t just for them, but for everyone.

Reflection Questions:

1. Can you recall a time when your expectations of someone led to disappointment or anger?
2. How do you react when God’s plans differ from your own?

Additional Scripture:

• Luke 4:16-30
• Isaiah 61:1-2

Day 2: Hometown Expectations

Devotional:
Consider how hometowns often hold expectations for their own. Jesus returned home filled with the Holy Spirit, but faced resistance when his purpose extended beyond familiar faces. Reflect on how we view our own ‘hometowns’ and communities.

Reflection Questions:

1. What expectations do you feel from your community or family, and how do they influence your actions?
2. Are you open to how God might work through or around your expectations for your life?

Additional Scripture:

• Mark 6:1-6
• Jeremiah 29:11

Day 3: Using God’s Power

Devotional:
Reflect on the misuse of God’s power illustrated in the sermon. Jesus faced the temptation in the desert to use his power for selfish ends. The same temptation can manifest in desiring God’s gifts for personal gain rather than for broader kingdom purposes.

Reflection Questions:

1. How do you discern between using your talents for personal benefit versus for God’s purposes?
2. In what ways can you ensure that your actions align with God’s will?

Additional Scripture:

• Matthew 4:1-11
• James 1:12-15

Day 4: A Hopeful Presence

Devotional:
The sermon encourages us to be a hopeful presence in the world, mirroring Jesus’ example by widening the reach of God’s grace. Reflect on what it means to be a hopeful presence in your community, and consider how you can embody this hope.

Reflection Questions:

1. How can you become a hopeful presence in your community?
2. What actions can you take to show grace to those who feel excluded from God’s love?

Additional Scripture:

• Romans 15:13
• 1 Peter 3:15-16

Day 5: The Lord’s Table

Devotional:
Reflect on the inclusivity of the Lord’s table, where all are invited, regardless of imperfections or past mistakes. This is a powerful symbol of God’s grace and the invitation for all to partake in his love.

Reflection Questions:

1. What barriers keep you or others from accepting God’s invitation to the table?
2. How does the concept of communion reflect the heart of God’s invitation to humanity?

Additional Scripture:

• 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
• Revelation 19:9