A Morning at Small Group
Today we’re sharing what we chatted about this morning at Neighbors’ Small Group. Small Group meets weekly and is open to all, regardless of beliefs. The goal of the time together is to meet in a smaller group and talk openly about our lives and matters of faith. We typically start with some check-in questions, a reminder of some ways we approach the Bible together at Small Group, and then reflect on a story or excerpt.
Below you’ll see what we talked about this morning, which you’re free to reflect on at home on your own, or join us at Small Group next time! If you ever have questions about Small Group you can email us at neighborsofiowacity@gmail.com.
What this week made you feel connected?
What this week made you feel healthy?
What this week made you feel purposeful?
Reminder of our *ground rules* reading the Bible together at Neighbors:
ask the question in your mind - it is likely someone else's question too.
share the insight or idea you have - it doesn't have to be "right" but it will surely help us discuss and think more deeply.
You might already have heard what someone else thinks a Bible story means, but in this space you’re free to create your own ideas. Listen to your gut, heart, and mind as we are reading and trying to find meaning.
The goodness and equality of all ethnicities, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities is not up for debate in this space.
What’s the goal? We’re discovering together the ways the Bible helps us learn more about the heart of Jesus, ourselves, and loving one another.
The Story of Jesus and Zacchaeus | Luke 19:1-10
19 Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. 2 There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. 3 He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.
5 When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” 6 Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. 7 But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.
8 Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” 9 Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
Zacchaeus is defined by what he does and has done in this story. How do you want to be defined in life right now? Name 3 things.
What is something you can relate to about Zacchaeus? Can be anything.
How would you feel if you were Zacchaeus in this story? What would you learn about the heart of Jesus?
If you saw Jesus today, what would you hope he would ask you to do together with him?