WEEK 1: MARCH 1-5

Community Raised

We begin our Lenten journey together on Ash Wednesday and appropriately we start with the “Valley of Dry Bones” from Ezekiel 37. In this valley there is a stark visual of death, dryness, nothingness—think ashes from Ash Wednesday service. Then God tells the prophet to breathe life into the valley and the bones are raised to life. At Kingwood United Methodist Church we are a people that have individually been brought to life by Christ so that as a community we can Rise Up to join Christ in His mission in the world. We stand by the truth that it is only on Christ that we stand, much like the valley of dry bones brought to life. This week as you spend time with the daily devotionals be sure to include intentional times of prayer over Ezekiel 37.

MARCH 5

Sabbath

Read Ezekiel 37 and spend time in prayer.

To be used in Sunday School/small group discussion March 5:

This week we reflected on the truth that Christ has not only raised us to life as individuals but He is the one who breathes life into our community. Kingwood United Methodist Church is full of evidence of God’s breath pushing into existence some amazing things. We are seeing miracles happen and lives transformed throughout the ministries here. However, it is vital that we continue to worship the God that makes it all possible. No matter how successful something might be at KUMC, it is only when He has breathed life that we see Resurrection. I don’t know about you, but I want to be a part of those kinds of stories, bringing life into the Kingdom of Heaven. Today, consider what it means for a community to respond generously to God’s activity in our lives.

“God bestows His blessings without discrimination. The followers of Jesus are

children of God, and they should manifest the family likeness by doing good to all,

even to those who deserve the opposite.” – F.F. Bruce

What stood out this week from your devotionals?

How does Ezekiel 37 challenge your thoughts of generosity?

Why is it important to think about the community being raised together?

How can individuals model generosity for others?

What are you excited about in the future of KUMC?