Well That Was Different: Week 2 -- Palm Sunday

"Dear Heavenly Father, we gather today in Your presence to explore the depths of Your love and teachings. Guide our hearts and minds as we delve into Your Word. Help us to learn from each other and grow closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."

Scripture Readings.
1. Zechariah 9:9-10 – Reflect on the prophecy of Jesus and His humble entry into Jerusalem.
2. Luke 19:30-44 – Discuss the events of Palm Sunday, Jesus's arrival, and His lament over Jerusalem.
3. Mark 11:15-17– Examine Jesus's actions in the temple and His critique of religious hypocrisy.
4. 1 John 4: – Consider the central message of God as love.
5. 2 Peter 3:9 – Discuss God’s patience and desire for all to come to repentance.
 
Discussion Topics and Questions
1. The Personal and Persistent Love of Christ  
Question: How do you perceive Christ’s love in your personal life? Can you share an experience where you felt His persistent love?  
Discussion: Explore the difference between seeing love as an attribute versus God being the embodiment of love. How does this shape our understanding of Christ's actions?

2. Self-righteousness and Its Symptoms  
Question:  What does self-righteousness look like, and how can we recognize it in our own lives?  
Discussion:  Discuss how using a mirror instead of a microscope could help us in our personal and spiritual growth.

3. Jesus's Actions in the Temple  
Question: What is the significance of Jesus overturning the tables?    
Discussion: Discuss instances where religious attitudes might overshadow the core message of salvation.

4. Recognizing ‘The Time of Your Visitation'  
Question:  What does Jesus mean by "the time of your visitation”?  
Discussion:  Explore how we can remain vigilant and recognize God’s workings and presence in our daily lives.

Follow-Up Exercise
Exercise: This week, identify one way you can express God's love in your community or within your family. Share your experience with the group in the next session.
Reflection: Spend some quiet time each day reflecting on areas where you might exhibit self-righteousness and ask God for guidance in overcoming these attitudes.

Closing Prayer
"Lord, we thank You for this time of fellowship and learning. May the insights we’ve gained today deepen our faith and strengthen our resolve to live out Your love daily. As we go forth, help us to be vessels of Your peace and grace. In Your everlasting name, Amen."