Called to a relationship with God
Reflection time
Option 1 - Bible passage
Spend some time reflecting on this passage. You can see simply read and see how this passage speaks to you. There are also questions below if you would like some guidance.
Luke 11:15-32 - The Parable of the Lost Son
Questions for reflection:
How do you think the father felt on seeing his son again?
What was the father’s attitude to the younger son?
Why was the father so generous considering how the son had behaved?
What might God the Father being saying to me?
Is there anything I would like to say to God my Father?
Option 2 - Painting
If you are familiar with the story, you may like to reflect on this painting - The Return of the Prodigal Son by Rembrandt.
Questions for reflection:
What do I see in the way the son leans against the father?
What might the son be thinking and feeling?
How do the father’s arms and hands speak to me of God’s love for me?
What else do I see in the father’s face?
If I was in the position of the son, what might I say to my father?
How does this painting speak to me of God’s love for me?
Action time
What practical steps would you like to take to deepen your relationship with God?
Central practices
Bible reading - How am I going to read the Bible? (paper Bible?, on-line app?, chapter by chapter?, reading plan?) When is a realistic time? For how long? Where will I do it?
Prayer - How am I going to pray (whoever comes to mind?, prayer diary or app?) Who am I going to pray for (family?, friends?, church?, missionaries?) When is a good time (after Bible reading time?, during the day?) For how long? Where will I do it?
Additional practices to consider
Are there any other practices I would like to explore or put into practice to help me deepen in my relationship with God.
For example, Bible practices such as meditation, memorisation, journalling, taking sermon notes, listening to sermons or talks, doing formal study.
Or practices to encourage prayer such as solitude, silence, fasting, listening to music, creating a playlist, putting aside a longer time (half day, full days, several days) for Bible reading, prayer and reflection.
Note down the practical steps you are planning to take.