Small Group Guide: Scandalous Love
Opening Prayer
Bible: John 12:1-8
Key Takeaways:
- The body is not a scandal but a gift through which we can draw near to God
- Lavish compassion and care are appropriate responses in times of great sorrow
- We must be wary of the "scandal of distraction" that seeks to justify self-serving priorities
- We are called to act with urgency and awareness in responding to God's call
Discussion Questions:
- Pastor Amy mentions the "scandal of having a body." How does our culture view bodies, especially women's bodies? How does this contrast with the idea that "the body is a gift"? What does it mean to you that bodies are the way Mary was able to draw near to God?
- Mary's act of anointing Jesus was seen as lavish and wasteful by some. Can you think of a time when you or someone you know showed "extravagant love"? How was it received?
- Pastor Amy talks about the "scandal of distraction." In what ways do we sometimes use criticism of others to deflect attention from our own shortcomings?
- How do you feel about the concept of "both/and" faith versus "either/or" faith? Can you think of examples in your own life where you've struggled with this?
- Pastor Amy mentions how easy it is to twist scripture to justify our own agendas. How can we guard against this tendency in our own lives and in our faith communities?
- How can we cultivate a sense of urgency in our faith, like Mary demonstrated, without becoming anxious or overwhelmed?
Practical Applications:
- Lavish Love: Identify someone in your life who might be going through a difficult time. Plan an "extravagant" act of kindness for them, no matter how small it might seem.
- Distraction Awareness: Pay attention to moments when you're tempted to criticize others. Instead of acting on that impulse, take a moment to reflect on your own motivations and actions.
- Present Moment Awareness: Each day this week, take a few minutes to be fully present and ask God, "What do you want me to pay attention to right now?"
Closing Prayer:
Loving God, thank you for the example of Mary's extravagant love. Help us to be fully present in our bodies, lavish in our compassion, aware of our distractions, and open to the paradoxes of faith. Guide us to pour out your love in both big and small ways this week. In Jesus' name, Amen.
