Can one be a Christian without being religious? The vast majority of Americans think so. Polls and opinion surveys indicate that a the majority of adults in this country think of themselves as Christian. Yet their self-understanding of a Christian does not seem to be reflected in their lives in the form of practiced faith. As Christians, something must set us apart from the rest. This is more that just living a good life. It is more that doing good things. It is more than being a member of St. James Lutheran Church or any church for that matter. It is being a disciple. It is carrying the cross. It is living a life that exhibits the marks of Discipleship.
The Marks of Discipleship
We are going to spend the 40 days of Lent learning the six marks of discipleship. These are the six ways of living out our faith that show the world that we are different than a good citizen. These practices of faith will help us bridge the gap between belief and behavior. These disciplines of faith are based on biblical and historical practices that have long characterized individuals with living, active faith.
The Six Marks of Discipleship
As a member of Saint James Lutheran Church and the body of Christ I believe that I am called…”to the measure of the stature of Christ” -Ephesians 4:12
I will strive to…
1. PRAY daily
2. WORSHIP weekly
3. READ the Bible
4. SERVE at and beyond St. James
5. Be in RELATIONSHIP to encourage the spiritual growth of others
6. GIVE of my time, talents and resources
PRAYER
The assumption is that we all know how to pray. This problem of not knowing how to pray is not a new one. Some two thousand years ago, Jesus “was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord teach us to pray’” -Luke 11:1 Prayer is something that needs to be taught and learned over and over again; from the child getting ready for bed to the elderly person resting in a nursing home.
Prayer is not merely an occasional impulse to which we respond when we are in trouble: prayer is a life attitude.
Some Tips for your Prayer Life
It is important to take time to step into God’s presence Each Day. Here are some tips to help:
1. Identify your best time– morning, evening, during lunch break.
2. Find a place where you will not be interrupted.
3. Get comfortable.
4. Begin your conversation with God.
5. Review your day.
6. What do you have to be thankful for?
7. What situations do you need to ask for help with?
8. Where do you need forgiveness and healing?
9. Are there people and situation you want to pray for?
10. Leave it in God’s hands.
You can also just sit in silence and listen for God.
Scripture for the Week
Thursday
Luke 11:1-13
Friday
1 Thessalonians 5:1-28
Saturday
Psalm 5:1-12
Sunday
Psalm 63:1-11
Monday
Mark 11:20-24
Tuesday
Psalm 46:1-11
Wednesday
Psalm 62:1-8
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