Worship Tools

Worship Outline 1

Additional Scriptures

Jonah 3:1–5, 10; Psalm 62:5–12; 1 Corinthians 7:29–31

Preparation

Distribute pieces of colorful paper and a pen or pencil, if needed, as people enter or insert the paper in the bulletins or hymnals and have pens and pencils available.

Worship Setting

Use fishing nets as part of the worship center, draped over the table and down the front onto the floor. Use a group of three pillar candles, piles of rocks with small branches or driftwood, and a cross to complete the worship center. 

During the Disciples’ Generous Response, the papers brought forward by participants can be tucked into the fishing net. If a net is not available, provide a basket, tray, or bowl for the commitment notes.

Prelude

Welcome

After the Welcome, inform participants that throughout the service they are to consider and then record on the paper they received what they need to leave behind to truly follow Jesus. Some examples might be their busyness, inadequacies, or excuses. They will bring forward both their offerings and the papers with commitments during the Disciples’ Generous Response.

Call to Worship

Leader: For God alone my soul waits in silence,

People: for my hope is from on high.

Leader: God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress;

People: I shall not be shaken.

Leader: On God rests my deliverance and my honor;

People: my mighty rock, my refuge is in God.

Leader: Trust in God at all times, O people;

People: pour out your heart before God;

All: God is a refuge for us.

—Psalm 62:5–8, adapted

Sharing Time

Sharing Gratitude

Ask participants to share one- or two-word answers to the phrase “Something for which I am grateful today.” Alternatively, ask them to form small groups for sharing their answers.

Sharing Hymn

“As We Gather” sing twice CCS 73

OR “Halle, Halle, Hallelujah” CCS 86

OR “In My Life, Lord” CCS 602

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Sharing Prayers

Ask participants to share one- or two-word answers to, “Someone or something I am praying for today.” Alternatively, ask the small groups to share their answers.

Community Prayers

Allow time for silent prayer reflection by those gathered so they may offer their own prayers for the cares and concerns mentioned.

Prayer for Peace

Light the peace candle

Sharing Peace

Ask participants to share one- or two-word answers to, “Where in your life and within God’s creation do you see the need for peace?” Alternatively, ask small groups to share their answers.

Prayer

Ask someone to offer a prayer for peace that addresses the answers that have been shared.

Scripture Reading

Narrator: Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying,

Jesus: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”

Narrator: As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them,

Jesus: “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.”

Narrator: And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.

—Mark 1:14–20

Hymn of Calling

“Jesus Is Calling”   CCS 578

OR “You Walk along Our Shoreline” CCS 598

Focus Moment

Connect the game of “Follow the Leader” with today’s scripture. For additional information, visit Sermons4Kids.

Ministry of Music or Community Focus Hymn

“The Summons” stanzas 1–4   CCS 586

Message

Based on Mark 1:14–20

Sung Response

“The Summons” stanza 5   CCS 586

Disciples’ Generous Response

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 165:2d–e

Blessing of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes: Mission Prayer

Participants read aloud in unison. Print or project the text or provide Mission Prayer cards which can be purchased from Herald House.

God, where will your Spirit lead today?

Help me be fully awake and ready to respond.

Grant me courage to risk something new and

become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Invite people to come forward with both their offerings and their commitment notes that state what they would like to leave behind to truly follow Jesus. If a fishing net was used in the worship center, ask participants to weave their papers into the net to make a colorful display. Be sure to offer a way for those who cannot come to the front to participate.

Closing Hymn    

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“I Have Called You by Your Name” CCS 636

OR “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” CCS 499

Sending Forth

The voice of the Son came to me, saying, “Those who are baptized in my name…follow me, and do the things which you have seen me do.”          

—2 Nephi 13:15, adapted

Go in Christ’s mission!

Postlude

Worship Outline 2

Additional Scriptures

Jonah 3:1-5, 10; Psalm 62:5-12; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31

Preparation

For your worship center, consider making or using large three-dimensional letters that spell M-A-R-K. Place Bibles of various shapes, sizes and colors on display in the worship center, each open to  the passage from Mark that will be read as today’s focus scriptures from the lectionary cycle B.

Include fish nets in the worship center to represent the mending of fish nets from Mark 1:14-20. Comment on the worship center symbolism during the Welcome.

Pass out the Kingdom Scramble activity sheets for use anytime during the worship service or use for a Focus Moment.

If you use the Scriptural Challenge, prepare scripture readings on slips of paper.  See below. 

Prelude

Welcome and Caring and Sharing

Call to Worship

Leader: For God alone my soul waits in silence,

People: I wait in silence with hope.

Leader: God alone is my rock.

People: God is the rock of my salvation. I shall not be shaken.

Leader: Trust in God.

People: God is my refuge

Leader: For God alone my soul waits in silence,

People: I wait in silence with hope.

—Psalm 62:5-12, adapted

Season of Praise

Sing two or all three hymns. Consider using the vocal recordings of these songs found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings available from Herald House to teach and learn those new to your group. Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“Fanana” CCS 596

OR “Amen, Siakudumisa!/Amen, Sing Praises to the Lord!” CCS 109

OR “Louez le Seigneur !/Praise, Praise, Praise the Lord!” CCS 106

Prayer of Gratitude and Blessing

Sung Response

“Wait for the Lord”    sing twice    CCS 399

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Translations into Spanish and French for this hymn can be found online.

Focus Moment: Reading the Good News of Repentance

Read the scripture aloud (Mark 1:14-15) and discuss the questions:

What does it mean to repent? What is the good news of God? in what ways has the kingdom come near you?

Responsible Choices Guided Meditation

Pause or ring a chime between each statement. Pause after reading each line.

Assume a comfortable position with your feet on the floor and an upright posture. Focus on deep, relaxed breaths. Rest your hands on your lap or other comfortable position. Pay attention to your breathing and engage with the words of guided meditation…

Forgive Me…

Forgive me O God…

at times I am distant…

For poor choices, your mercy I seek…

at times I am distant…

forgive me O God…

forgive me…

The Good News of Calling Scripture Reading: Mark 1:16-18

Hymn of Calling

“Jesus Is Calling” CCS 578

OR “Hark! The Voice of Jesus Calling” CCS 592

OR “While Moses Tended Jethro’s Sheep” CCS 595

The Good News of Calling Scripture Reading: Mark 1:19-20

James Mending Nets Monologue

You and your brother have brought your father’s fishing boat to the shore. Tending to your business, you, your brother, father and the hired workers are mending your nets: hands busily tying knots and repairing the nets for the next catch. Then you see him. Jesus is approaching in the distance from where your friend Simon had been casting his nets in shallow water. Jesus called out to them, “Fishers of people?” What was he saying?

You recognize him from the baptisms at the Jordan with John. He walks closer. This is the one John spoke of. He is near. His eyes are piercing. There is something, something holy about him. Your friends Peter and Andrew were following him as if they sensed something, too. Something holy.

Your hands stop their motion of mending. You look right into his eyes. Immediately, Jesus speaks to you, calling you by name. You grasp your brother’s hand. You stand up. And you follow. This is your song:

Ministry of Music or Community Hymn

“You Walk along Our Shoreline” CCS 598

OR “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” CCS 499

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Prayer for Peace

Light the peace candle

Prayer

O God, you call. We hear your invitation to the gospel of peace. We come repentant, ready to respond. Help us to find every moment in every day where we can live in peace. Bless us with the gift of calm, allowing us to bring your love, joy, hope and peace to others through holy attention toward the way of peace, serenity and just living. We sense your kingdom truly has come near. May your kingdom of peace forever reign in our hearts and in our world. Amen.

Jesus Proclaims the Kingdom Responsive Reading

Leader: Jonah went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord.

People: The Kingdom has come near!

Leader: Peter became a fisher for people, in response to the call of Jesus.

People: The Kingdom has come near!

Leader: Paul taught that the present form of the world was passing away, to give way to the Kingdom of God.

People: The Kingdom has come near!

Leader: It is for divine purpose that you have been given the struggles as well as the joys of diversity. So must it always be in the peaceable kingdom.

People: The Kingdom has come near!

—Based on Jonah 3:3, Mark 1:18, 1 Corinthians 7:31, Doctrine and Covenants 162:4b

Message

Based on Mark 1:14–20

OR Scripture Challenge

Place enough scripture readings printed on strips of paper in a basket so that each person can take one. Distribute them to the participants. Explain that they are to silently read their scripture and then consider how they are being called in their life today.

Scriptures to use: Mark 1:14–20, Mark 2:14, Matthew 4:18–22, Luke 5:1–11, Luke 9:23, Luke 9:57-60, Luke 14:25-27, John 1:35–51, John 8:12, John 12:26, John 15:16, John 21:22, 1 Thessalonians 5:24, Romans 8:28, 2 Thessalonians 2:14, 1 Peter 2:21, 1 Peter 1:15-16, 2 Timothy 1:9, Ephesians 4:4, 1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Peter 3:9, Amos 7:14-15, Isaiah 6:8, Jonah 3:1-4.

After a time for consideration and meditation, invite several to briefly share their scripture and how they perceive God is calling them today.

Hymn of Response

“The Summons” CCS 586

OR “Beloved Community of God” CCS 588

OR “For Jesus Loved Me/To Ietu Here” CCS 594

Consider using the vocal recording from Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings to teach and learn this song.

Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Disciples’ Generous Response

Statements of Gratitude

Are we thankful? Are we thankful to God? What are some of the things you are grateful for today? Speak out in one word or a short phrase about what you are thankful for today.

Allow time for responses.

Statement

Even as we affirm that the Kingdom has come near, we recognize that our response to God’s great gift in our lives makes it possible for the building of the kingdom to go forward.

When we understand God’s love and grace are freely given to us, we respond out of gratitude and are liberated to share freely in return.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Hymn of Commitment

“God Is Calling” CCS 172

OR “I Have Called You by Your Name” CCS 636

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

OR “Send Me Forth” CCS 651

Benediction

Response

Postlude

Worship Outline 3

Additional Scriptures 

Jonah 3:1-5, 10; Psalm 62:5-12; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 

Preparation

For the Reflection after the Message, recruit nine participants—seven to be designated colors and two additional. It’s best if they can rehearse before the service. None of the participants speak. Person 1 and Person 2 only laugh. Prepare seven cardboard signs to hang around the seven participants’ necks. Each person representing a color wears a sign, plain color on one side and a letter on the other side. Together the signs spell r-a-i-n-b-o-w. Colors: Purple, blue, green, yellow, orange, red, burgundy. Number them to display the word “rainbow” when lined up in order and in the usual order of colors in a rainbow. 

Prelude

Welcoming Hymn 

“Gather Us In”   stanzas 1, 2, and 4    CCS 72

OR “Who Is My Mother, Who Is My Brother?” CCS 336 

Welcome, Joys, and Concerns 

Call to Worship Responsive Reading

Leader: For God alone our souls wait in silence,

People: for our hope is from God.

Leader: God alone is our rock and salvation, our fortress;

People: We shall not be shaken.

Leader: On God rests our deliverance and honor;

People: our mighty rock, our refuge is in God.

ALL: Trust in God at all times; let us pour out our hearts before our God.

—Psalm 62:5-8, adapted

Hymn

“Light Dawns on a Weary World” CCS 240 

OR “When the Church of Jesus” CCS 358 

Invocation

Response

Processing Mark 1:14-20 

Ask someone to read the scripture aloud and project or print the first two statements with associated questions. Ask participants to discuss in pairs or small groups. 

• Awareness. God is not far away, but here in our lives. How has the scripture helped you become aware of God in your life? 
• Learning. What have you learned? How has the scripture taught you to embrace something new or something you must let go? 

Repeat the scripture and project or print the final two statements with associated questions for discussion. 

• Reflection. Reflect on how the scripture has helped you change. How have you been challenged? 
• Action. What can you do to help God help others and creation? 

Conclude the processing by projecting or printing the scripture passage for all to see and read aloud together. 

Prayer for Peace 

Peace Reflection

There…He said it…“If you can’t stand for something, you’re not good for nuthin”

Trapped in that moment, defined by words disguising malice with values based in usefulness to others on terms not finding root or birth from within.

What usefulness? What others? What shared experiences beckon me to respond to an attack on my life’s choices that may or may not be of use to someone else?

My journey is mine…Not his. …How can he say that…Who died and made him the boss of me?

“Forgive them, father, they know not what they do.”

So what if I am not willing to spend time doing things that are different from what I like. …Things that are familiar. …Things that ask me to change who I think I am…I think I’m doing fine just as I am. …Anyhow I don’t feel comfortable doing stuff with people I don’t know….

do this to the least among you, and you have done it to me also.

Choices…Choices to be an answer and not an onlooker. Choices to reach beyond the very tips of your fingers to grasp a life of new. Choices to be the one in the middle of where the journey beckons, on the road possibility lays out, climbing hills yet unexplored…. Choices to accept, to care, to nurture. Choices to face need that is ever present in a world trapped… not by hatred, but by indifference. 

faith, hope and love, but the greatest is love 

Love is the source of a heart willing to respond to need. …Love is the power that drives willing sacrifice to be in the midst of the chaotic beauty of life. Love is the force expressed in receiving and then giving grace. Love is the gift that calls each of us. …To stand.                                 

—Dean Robinson; Used with permission. 

Peace Hymn 

“Come and Bring Light” choose several stanzas   CCS 287 

OR “Soften My Heart”   sing twice    CCS 187

Light the peace candle 

Prayer               

Use a mixture of online and in-room participants. 

Participant 1: I know what it’s like to stumble in the dark. 

Participant 2: I know what it’s like to be invisible. 

Participant 3: I know what it’s like to be unforgiven. 

Presider: Who will care? Who will change themselves so they can change the world? 

Participant 1: I stumble in the dark. I’ve learned to be ashamed of who I am. Where do I belong? 

Participant 2: I’m invisible. I’ve learned to slink away. Where do I belong? 

Participant 3: I won’t be forgiven. I know my need is too much for people. Where do I belong? 

People: Is there hope? Is hope real? 

Presider: Light of the star illuminates the dark. The star makes us visible. The son forgives the unforgivable. The dream is real. That you don’t matter is a lie. 

People: We stand with you. We will not turn away. You are at home here. 

ALL: We pray for this kind of peace. Amen. 

Ministry of Music OR Community Hymn 

“The Summons” CCS 586 

OR “You Walk along Our Shoreline” CCS 598 

Sharing in the Spoken Word 

Based on Mark 1:14-20 

Reflection: Differences               

See Preparation at the beginning of the service for more details. 

Two people, Person 1 and Person 2, enter and start whispering and giggling. 

A color enters and Person 1 and Person 2 laugh. 

More colors enter and Person 1 and Person 2 laugh even more. 

Colors group together out of order, then form a semicircle. 

Person 1 and Person 2 still laugh. 

Colors group together again, but this time in ‘rainbow order’ and again form a semicircle. Turn the colors over so the worshipping community sees “r-a-i-n-b-o-w.” 

Person 1 and Person 2 stop laughing and gaze at them. They then say, “Oh!” 

—Debra Bruch 

Disciples’ Generous Response 

Generosity Hymn 

“Nada te turbe” sing twice CCS 241 

For assistance with Spanish pronunciation, sing along with the vocal recording found on Community of Christ Sings Audio Recordings, available from Herald House.

OR “Christ, You Call Us All to Service” CCS 357 

Video “Boldly Venture!”

YouTube Video

In this message an online worship experience, Community of Christ President Emeritus Steve Veazey provides focus, inspiration, and guidance. 

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes 

Closing Hymn 

“I, the Lord of Sea and Sky” CCS 640 

OR “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” CCS 499 

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

Benediction

Sending Forth: Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b 

Postlude

Sacred Space: Small-Group Worship Outline

Welcome

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.
Light the peace candle.

Ask people to share one- or two-word answers to, “Where in your life, in the world, or within God’s creation do you see the need for peace?”

After people have shared, offer this prayer:

Lord of peace,

We pray for peace in our lives, in our world, and for our Earth. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Blessings of Loving Kindness

Take a few moments to quiet yourself. When you feel a sense of calm, begin by repeating the following blessing, giving the words time to resonate in your heart and mind:

May I be blessed with loving kindness. May I be blessed with health. May I be blessed with true happiness. May I be blessed with peace.

Think of someone who is beloved to you. Visualize the person. As you pray, insert the person’s name into the prayer.

May my beloved be blessed with loving kindness. May my beloved be blessed with health. May my beloved be blessed with true happiness. May my beloved be blessed with peace.

Now think of a close friend. Visualize the person as you pray:

May my friend be blessed with loving kindness. May my friend be blessed with health. May my friend be blessed with true happiness. May my friend be blessed with peace.

Think of someone who has harmed you or with whom you are in conflict. Visualize this person. Take a moment. Breathe deeply and lovingly pray this blessing:

May the one who harmed me be blessed with loving kindness. May the one who harmed me be blessed with health. May the one who harmed me be blessed with true happiness. May the one who harmed me be blessed with peace.

Invite people to share the thoughts, emotions, and images they experienced during this time of blessing.

Sharing Around the Table

Mark 1:14–20 NRSVue

¹⁴ Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God ¹⁵ and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” 

¹⁶ As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea, for they were fishers. ¹⁷ And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.” ¹⁸ And immediately they left their nets and followed him. ¹⁹ As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. ²⁰ Immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

—Mark 1:14-20 NRSVue

Jesus invited the first disciples to drop their nets and follow him. They had to leave their families, friends, livelihoods, and possessions to follow Jesus into the unknown. In doing so, they showed courage, faith, and commitment. These first disciples risked everything to follow Jesus.

We, too, are called to wrestle with the realities of discipleship. At times, following Jesus will be difficult, frustrating, and maybe even dangerous. But we still are called to proclaim the grace and peace of Jesus Christ. As we emulate these early disciples in the simple act of “dropping our nets” and choosing to follow Jesus, our lives will be forever changed

Questions

1. How are we called to make such astounding changes in our lives so we can follow Jesus today?
2. Are there aspects of your life that you find hard to leave behind as you journey with Jesus?
3. How can risk-taking magnify our call to create communities of joy, hope, love, and peace?

Sending

Generosity Statement

“Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion” (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f).

We receive God’s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer for the season after Epiphany is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Gracious God, May we always be generous. You have gifted each of us with boundless grace and unending love. May our response to that love and grace be humble service to others, and may generosity be part of our nature. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

CCS 586, “The Summons”

Closing Prayer

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Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39.

Invitation to Communion

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

In preparation let’s sing Community of Christ Sings 520, “God Extends an Invitation.”

Blessing and serving of the bread and wine.

Thoughts for Children

Jesus invited people to follow him. Let’s play a game of “follow me.”

Say, “Follow me,” and pretend to read a book, walk in place, pray, or exercise. Have fun and create some silly movements. Now invite each person to take a turn as the leader. Make sure every child has a chance to lead the group.

Now share statements that describe how we can follow Jesus. Create actions to go with them. Encourage others to “follow” your actions.

Jesus said, “Follow me to help feed others.” (Make motions of spoon-feeding someone from a bowl.)

Jesus said, “Follow me to invite those who are not invited.” (Reach out to shake someone’s hand.)

Jesus said, “Follow me to be kind to others.” (Wave and say “hi” to each one.)

Jesus said, “Follow me to study and learn.” (Demonstrate reading.)

Invite participants to share their ideas on how to follow Jesus.

(Adapted from 
www.CofChrist.org/common/cms/resources/Documents/Focus-moments.pdf)

Sermon Helps

Exploring the Scripture

This scripture passage explores Jesus’ proclamation of “good news.” The author of Mark asserts Jesus as the Son of God who embodies love and calls people to believe. This passage highlights the following key ideas.

Through life and ministry, Jesus is about to show God’s radical interest in humanity. He helped reshape thinking about a loving and creative God. This mission will be dangerous and will need extraordinary commitment. His followers are willing to leave their families and possessions to follow Jesus. This passage asks readers to evaluate their life and ministry through the lens of the ministry and life of Jesus and to examine what is important to God.

Verse 14 shares the understanding that this critical mission is indeed dangerous, noting John’s recent arrest. John was proclaiming Jesus as the Savior, preaching repentance and forgiveness in a radical way not heard before. For his commitment to God and Jesus, he was arrested and finally executed. For Jesus, this was a sign of supreme sacrifice. Disciples today are asked to examine their lives and discern what is important.

Verses 15–20 model the witness of invitation by Jesus. Disciples were asked to drop their nets and follow him. The account in Mark shows the first disciples as doing just that. They left everything they owned, their families, and friends to follow Jesus into the unknown. They showed faith and commitment. Common thought today is that they were just simple fishers who had little to give up to follow Jesus. These fishers from the shores of Galilee had businesses, employees, and family who depended on them. These fishers risked everything to follow Jesus.

These early disciples would be called to proclaim the good news after Jesus’ death and transform from followers to leaders. It is not hard to imagine these fishers spent much time in prayer to discern how they were called to commit themselves more fully to God. It is equally safe to assume they didn’t know the extent of how those simple prayers would change their lives and, maybe more important, history.

How many lives became hope-filled because of their risk-taking and testimony? How are we called to make such astounding changes in our lives so we can follow Jesus today? How can our risk-taking magnify our call to create communities of joy, hope, love, and peace?

We are called to wrestle with the tough challenges of being God’s creation. We are called to co-create with God a better world. At times, the mission will be difficult and maybe dangerous. But the mission demands sacrificial love. We may never see the changes in others’ lives, but the simple act of “dropping our nets” and following Jesus will be life changing.

Central Ideas

1. Life as a disciple calls for commitment and risk for the good of others.
2. The journey is difficult and requires sacrificial love.
3. We are called to invite others to join in the cause of Jesus Christ and proclaim the good news.

Questions for the Speaker

1. How have you seen risk-taking, by you or others, improve the lives of others?
2. Have you ever resented suffering and risk-taking? How did you overcome those feelings, and how did it help you understand more clearly the Mission Initiative of Invite People to Christ?
3. How does your congregation become “fishers of people”?
4. What does it mean to sacrificially love in today’s world?

Lessons

Adult Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Mark 1:14–20

Lesson Focus

Becoming a disciple requires risk taking and commitment to sharing the gospel.

Objectives

The learners will…

• identify priorities that might interfere with total commitment to Christ.
• examine how personal giftedness is used in ministry.
• develop and practice invitation.

Supplies

• Bible
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)
• Index cards and pencils
• Mission Prayer

Note to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:14–20 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 33, available through Herald House.

Gather

Dwell in the words of “You Walk along Our Shoreline” CCS 598. As you read the hymn, consider the following:

• What images or words stand out to you?
• What is God’s invitation to you in this song?

Invite class members to share briefly their experiences.

Engage

Read together Mark 1:14–20.

The Greek term for gospel, evangelion, used by Mark portrays Jesus as both the one who declares salvation and the one in whom it is found. Jesus’ role is proclamation through teaching, healing, and actions. His call to “Follow Me” is an invitation to reprioritize our lives and put God and God’s kingdom first.

• If Jesus asked you today to follow him and said you could bring three things, what would you bring? Write each answer on an index card and then share with others. Compare answers. What does this say about our priorities?
• What personal gifts of invitation, welcome, and hospitality do you possess?
• What skills would you like to develop to become invitational?

Respond

We know from biblical accounts and from the presence of Christianity today, that Jesus’ disciples did respond to Jesus’ invitation to spread the gospel message. This radical approach to life as portrayed in Mark was challenging to understand and to live. It required risk-taking on the part of those early followers.

In small groups or pairs, consider the following questions.

• Why do you follow Jesus?
• What would it look like for you to leave everything behind to proclaim the gospel?
• On a scale of 1 to 10, how much of a risk taker are you? Explain.
• What would it take for you to risk something new and more fully embody the concerns and passion of Christ?

Send

Read together the Mission Prayer:

God, where will your Spirit lead today?

Help me be fully awake and ready to respond.

Grant me courage to risk something new,

and become a blessing of your love and peace.

Amen.

Share together:

• What testimonies have you heard regarding this prayer?
• Develop and practice an invitation you could use to invite others to Christ.

Bless

Sing together “Jesus Is Calling” CCS 578.

Youth Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Mark 1:14–20

Lesson Focus

Prioritizing our lives so we can follow Christ

Objectives

The learners will…

• understand that all are called, and Jesus always gives us a choice.
• reflect on areas of their own lives where they may need to leave something behind to follow Christ.
• recognize that following Christ means aligning our decisions with Christ’s mission, which requires prioritization.

Supplies

• Bible
• Empty, clear container
• Big rocks
• Small rocks
• Sand

Note to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:14–20 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Mark), p. 33, available through Herald House.

Gather

As students gather, ask them to share a time when they had to choose between two things they wanted to do. For example, if band practice and softball practice were at the same time, they needed to select one. Ask them to share their decision-making process. What factors did they consider as they were making their choice? What did they miss because of their choice? Were they OK with the decision, or did they wish they had made another? If they are really struggling to provide examples, you can stretch their thinking to more ordinary things such as having to select which TV show to watch or what to have for breakfast. In today’s scripture passage many people were faced with a tough decision. Invite the class to try to put themselves in the decision-maker’s shoes.

Engage

Today we are going to engage in spiritual practice to become familiar with the scripture passage. Spiritual practices are ways that we can intentionally take time to be with God. For this spiritual practice you will read the passage three times. The first time, ask them just to listen and try to imagine being in that place. Pause after reading. The second time you read the passage, they should listen for words or phrases that stand out to them. The third time they should again listen for words or phrases that stand out to them. Ask them to share their experiences and reflect on why those words or phrases were important. Unless a student points it out, mention that you noticed the words “follow me” were repeated.

Read Mark 1:14–20 three times with pauses between each reading.

• Why do you think the soon-to-be disciples didn’t hesitate when Jesus said, “Follow me”?
• What did they lose when they followed Christ? What did they gain?
• What does this look like today? What things are we called to give up when we follow Jesus?

This passage is a call to action and an opportunity for reflection as learners seek to align their priorities with God’s will and Christ’s mission. This passage reminds readers that All Are Called, as the Community of Christ Enduring Principle states.

Respond

Note to teacher: Try this object lesson beforehand to make sure the visual model matches the discussion.

Show the students your empty, clear container. Explain to them that this container represents their lives. Show them the other supplies as well. As you explain what they represent, ask them to give examples from their own lives that fit these categories:

• The big rocks represent the things God wants to be most important to them (God and family).
• The small rocks are the things that are important but do not take priority when compared to their big rocks (time with friends, time to relax, school).
• The sand represents the things in their lives that aren’t important but still require their time and attention (sleeping in late, video games).

Begin by pouring the sand into the container. Explain that you like to have fun and sometimes sleep in when you have work to do. Next begin adding both sizes of rocks to the container, naming an activity for each rock you place. Note: You should run out of room before you have used all your rocks. Ask them to discuss why you were unable to fit all the things you wanted into your life.

Empty your container and ask them to work together to find a better way to make everything fit. Hint: the trick is to put the big rocks in first and then the small rocks and then the sand last.

• What does this activity teach us about our lives? About following Jesus?

Send

Encourage students to begin each morning with a prayer asking God to help them organize their day so it reflects their commitment to prioritize and follow Jesus.

Bless

Close with a circle prayer. Begin the prayer but do not say amen. Instead, when you are finished saying your part, squeeze the person’s hand next to you and let them add to your prayer. This continues around the circle until you feel your hand squeezed again, at which time you can finish the prayer.

Children’s Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Mark 1:14–20

Lesson Focus

God calls us to invite others to join in the mission of Jesus Christ and proclaim the good news.

Objectives

The learners will…

• compare fishing for fish and fishing for people.
• discuss ways to invite people to Christ.

Supplies

• Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648)
• Chart paper or board and markers
• Snack supplies: goldfish crackers, pretzel sticks, cream cheese or peanut butter (Note: be aware and adapt for food allergies)
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:14-20 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Mark), p. 33, available through Herald House.

Gather

Welcome the students to class. Ask how many of the children have ever been fishing. Invite the students to explain how to catch a fish. Allow children to answer with basic steps of fishing (place something on a hook, cast line or net into water, wait, or reel in fish).

Engage

Tell the students that today you are going to read a story from the Bible about some fishermen. Read Mark 1:14–20 or “The Calling of Simon” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 56–57. When you finish reading, begin a discussion about the story using these questions:

• Simon and Andrew had been fishing for a long time, but they weren’t having much luck. How were they feeling about that?
• What did Jesus invite Simon and Andrew to do?
• Go fishing for people? That sounds a little strange! What do you think Jesus meant by that?

Have a discussion with children about the idea that Jesus wanted to travel and teach people about God.

Say: I think Jesus talked about fishing for people because he was talking to fishermen. He was using words his friends would understand. If he were talking to farmers, he might have used different words.

• How would telling people about God be the same as fishing?

Guide the children to understand that when we fish, we throw out the line and see what we catch. With people we share the word of God and see who pays attention. Fishing for fish and fishing for people both take patience and practice! It’s a good thing Jesus had his friends with him to help! Look around you; you’ve got friends to fish for people with you, too!

Respond

Create a chart with “Fish” and “People” as headings at the top. Along the side write, “Where do we go?” “What goes on the hook?” and “How do we catch?” Once you have the chart drawn, begin a discussion about each section. Always start with fish and then compare it to people.

“Where do we go?” Suggestions:

• Fish—river, lake, ocean
• People—school, neighborhood, sports team

“What goes on the hook?” Suggestions:

• Fish—worms, bread
• People—things you could say to others about God or ways you can share God’s love with others

“How do we catch?” Suggestions:

• Fish—cast the line, use a net
• People—with your words, with your actions

To wrap up your activity, serve the children a fishing snack—goldfish crackers, a pretzel stick, and a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter. To fish for your snack, dip your pretzel in the cream cheese or peanut butter and then see if you can catch a goldfish.

Send

Sing together “We Are One in the Spirit” CCS 359. If you have time, use some of the ideas from your chart and write your own verses to the song. For example:

We will speak to each other with very kind words,

We will speak to each other with very kind words.

We will speak to each other with very kind words.

And they’ll know we are Christians by our love…

Bless

Invite someone in the class to say the closing prayer.