Table Talk: The Common Life- Week 2
The Common Life
The Common Life invites us to rediscover the beauty and power of a life shared in Christ. When God’s people draw near to him and to one another, something forms among us that none of us could ever create alone. Faith is strengthened, gifts come alive, burdens become lighter, and the presence of Jesus becomes visible through his people. As we learn to receive and offer the particular grace God has entrusted to each of us, we become a community shaped by his love and live as a picture of his renewing work in the world.
Spiritual Practice: ATTENTIVE PRESENCE
We believe that Jesus’ teaching is more than just knowledge for our minds (though it certainly includes that). It transforms us from within and flows outward into our actions. By practicing the ways of Jesus, we are being shaped into a people who look more and more like Him.
Rather than rushing through life distracted or self-focused, Jesus invites us to cultivate hearts that notice where God is at work and respond with love. This kind of attentiveness is not passive; it is a way of joining the Spirit in caring for others.
One beautiful example is found in Mark 5:25–34. As Jesus made His way through a large crowd, a woman who had suffered from a bleeding disorder for twelve years reached out and touched His cloak, believing He could heal her. Though surrounded by people pressing in on every side, Jesus noticed her. He stopped and spoke words of healing and dignity: "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace." Jesus' attentiveness reminds us that no person is invisible to God. He sees each and every need, and he invites his children to join him in meeting those needs.
During this sermon series, let’s practice Attentive Presence together.
Notice (Who is God bringing to your attention? Who might need encouragement, care, etc.)?
Pray (Pray for that person. Ask God to help you see them with his eyes.)
Movetoward (Take an intentional step toward them during the week. Text, call, sit with them, invite them over, etc.)
Engaging with the Text
Read the listed passage individually or as a group. Use the questions below to explore the passage together. The conversation starters are typically applicational questions that can be used to further your discussion during mealtimes or other connection points throughout the week.
What stands out to you in this passage? (a word, phrase, image, or idea that caught your attention)
What does this passage reveal about God? (His character, heart, actions, or promises)
What questions does this passage raise for you? (anything confusing, challenging, or unresolved)
What response does this passage invite from us? (a way of seeing, trusting, living, or hoping differently)
Prayer
Father in Heaven,
As we seek the shared life in Christ that you created us for, help us to draw near to you and to one another. May we become a people who strengthen each others’ faith, carry each others’ burdens, and highlight each others’ gifts. You have given us your grace to share with those around us; keep our eyes open and our hearts ready to respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters. Form us into the community you desire us to be.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
SERMON SUMMARY: August 30th: "Serve One Another"
Jesus shows us that life together takes the shape of humble, self giving love. Knowing who he is and where he is going, Jesus takes the place of a servant and washes his disciples’ feet. He invites us first to receive his cleansing love and then to offer that same love to one another. As we use what we have been given to meet ordinary needs, we follow the pattern of Jesus. In a community where people willingly lower themselves to serve, we embody the character of Jesus and his love takes tangible form among us.
Passage: John 13:1-17
Conversation Starters
Kids
If you could have someone else do one job or chore for you every day, what would you pick? Why?
What surprising job did Jesus do for his disciples in this story? What does this show us about what Jesus is like?
We can follow Jesus’s example of serving others! What is one ordinary way you could help your family, friends, or church this week?
Students
What are some jobs or ways to help out that people sometimes avoid? Why do you think people avoid jobs that seem “beneath” them?
Read the passage above. What does Jesus' willingness to take the position of a servant reveal about his character? What does Peter’s reaction show us about ourselves?
Service requires humility and sacrifice. Is it easier or harder for you to serve in lowly places/positions/jobs? Does the amount or the type of sacrifice required affect your willingness to serve in certain ways?
What is one specific, ordinary act of self-giving love you could do for your family, friends, or church this week?
Adults
What jobs, acts of service, or ways of helping do people often avoid in your household, workplace, church, or community? Why are certain jobs or acts of service perceived as less desirable?
Read the passage above. John begins this scene by stating Jesus's awareness of his identity, his relationship with the Father, and what lies ahead. How does this context shape the way we understand his act of service? How might knowing who we are in Christ free us to serve others more willingly?
Jesus says his followers should take his example to heart by serving one another. How can you use something God has given you (time, attention, ability, resources, encouragement, etc.) to meet a need this week, perhaps in a way you would normally avoid?
