Jesus’ greatest passion and purpose was removing the barriers that kept people far from God and building bridges so that people could get to God. Everything He did flew in the face of the religious establishment of His time, a system built around keeping people out and letting only a select few in. He set an example for us to follow as a church and as individuals. He risked it all to make a way for the people to find The Way. He taught us that bridges are better.
1. Read Luke 19:10. Does your passion and purpose align with Jesus’?
2. Building bridges can be messy, uncomfortable and difficult. Do you build bridges toward those like you more than those different from you? Can some bridges be barriers? Why or why not?
3. In your life, is your message (shown through your actions and words) one of good news and rest? If not, what areas are not aligning with Jesus?
4. Do you perceive people as abused by sin? Is that a difficult shift of perspective for you?
Jesus convinced the unwanted of his love for them by his compassion for them. He felt for them, with them, and as them. He gave good news and did good deeds. Discuss one practical way you personally intend to do the same in this week.
Determine one way your small group can increase your influence in the community and make practical steps to implement it.
