Marked by Mercy | Week One
Small Group Guide: Marked by Mercy - Week One
Key Takeaways:
Mercy is God's primary attribute and how He defines Himself.
We are called to be agents of mercy in our daily lives.
Practicing mercy involves seeing needs, feeling empathy, acting, and giving.
Showing mercy to others is a reflection of God's mercy towards us.
Discussion Questions:
Pastor Randy mentioned that mercy is God's "love in action." How have you experienced God's mercy in your own life?
The sermon discussed the story of the Good Samaritan. What obstacles might prevent us from showing mercy like the Samaritan did?
The sermon emphasized the importance of "open eyes" to see the needs around us. What needs have you noticed in your community that you might have overlooked before?
How does the idea that we're "always acting on behalf of Jesus" change your perspective on showing mercy to others?
Randy said, "Do for one what you would like to do for everyone." How can this principle help us avoid "mercy fatigue" in a world with so many needs?
Reflect on the statement: "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves" (Proverbs 11:17). How have you seen this play out in real life?
Practical Applications:
This week, intentionally look for one opportunity to show mercy to someone in your immediate circle (family, neighbors, coworkers).
Consider participating in the church's "Go 25" initiative by signing up for the 25-day prayer challenge or exploring a mission opportunity.
Reflect on areas where you might need to receive God's mercy. Pray, asking God to help you both receive and extend mercy.
Look into local volunteer opportunities that align with the needs Jesus mentioned in Matthew 25 (feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick or imprisoned).
As a group, discuss and plan a small act of mercy you can do together in your community in the coming weeks.
Closing Reflection:
End your group time by reading Lamentations 3:22-23 together: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Spend a few moments in silent reflection on God's endless mercy and how you can extend that mercy to others this week.