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First Last And Last First

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 2/18/2024 10:00 AM

In a world that often exalts the powerful, the successful, and the influential, Jesus' teachings challenge our perceptions and beckon us to a counter-cultural understanding of greatness. The paradoxical nature of the Kingdom of God, where the least becomes the greatest, and the last become the first, challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and attitudes.

Join us as we embark on a journey to unpack the profound implications of this teaching. Together, we will explore the radical love, humility, and selflessness that Jesus modeled for us. Through engaging scripture, insightful reflections, and a spirit-led community, we will seek to understand how we can embody the transformative message of the last being first in our daily lives.

Scripture:

  • First Reading: Psalm 19:7-10
  • Second Reading: Mark 10:17-31
View Order of Worship View Message Transcript View Small Group Discussion Guide

This Week's Reading Plan

Day: Reading:
Monday Commandments to Live By: Exodus 20:12-16
Tuesday Entering God's Kingdom: Mark 10:23-27
Wednesday The Love of Money: 1 Timothy 6:6-10
Thursday Eternal Life to Come: Mark 10:28-31
Friday Present Sufferings, Future Glory: Romans 8:18-25
Saturday On the Road to Jerusalem: Mark 10:32-34
Sunday Jesus Came to Serve: Mark 10:35-45

This includes only the sermon portion of the service.

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Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

  • Morning Prayer: Heavenly Father, as I awaken to the dawn of a new day, I pause to reflect on the beauty of Your creation. Your law is perfect, refreshing my soul; Your statutes are trustworthy, making wise the simple. As I step forward into the tasks and encounters of this day, may I embody the upside-down kingdom that Jesus spoke of — where being last is the path to true greatness. Guide my steps in humility and service. Amen.

  • Evening Prayer: O Lord, my Rock and Redeemer, as I settle into the quiet of the evening, I ask for Your grace to let go of what hinders me from following You wholeheartedly. May I find peace in the knowledge that in Your kingdom, true riches are found in giving up, not in accumulating. As I surrender my day to You, prepare my heart to be transformed anew come morning. Amen.

  • Reflection Question: Jesus' interaction with the rich young man (Mark 10:17-22) leads us to consider what we are holding onto that may hinder our spiritual growth. What possessions or desires are you struggling to relinquish in order to fully follow Christ?

  • Reflection Question: Jesus teaches the necessity of taking up one's cross to follow him (Mark 8:34). In practical terms, what does it look like to bear your cross daily, and how can this act of surrender lead to transformation in your life?

  • Reflection Question: As we seek spiritual clarity and transformation, it is essential to support one another. How can the church community come alongside individuals who are wrestling with the challenge of prioritizing God's kingdom over personal gain? (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

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