IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SCRIPTURE

For many Christians throughout history, the life of faith has been nurtured in house churches. Frequently, even though they’ve been scattered, house churches have shared common practices.
 
In Acts 2:42, we’re told the early church devoted themselves to fellowship and the breaking of bread, the Apostles’ teaching, and the prayers. In these summer months, Highlanders are invited to remain connected to one another by participating in a shared practice.
 
This month, we invite you to immerse yourself in Scripture. In particular, spend some time in Matthew 14:13-22.
 
Not sure how to go about it? Below are 6 suggestions with some instructions. Try one, or some, or all. Here is a short “how to” video to help you on your way.

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1: Listen to & Watch the Story

You can listen to a 15-minute, kid-friendly radio version of the feeding of the 5000 called Levi’s Lunch below.

​You can also watch different versions of the story at these links:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh9qDCkDndc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKInenyU94

2: Meditate on the Story with Lectio Divina

1. Take a few moments to come to silence in God’s presence.
2. Read the passage of scripture slowly and aloud, listening for the phrase or word or image or feeling that God brings to your attention. Take as much time  as you need to listen quietly.
3. Re-read the passage and ask, “How does this touch my life?” Or, “What does this mean?” Take as much time as you need to listen for what God is revealing under the words.
4. Re-read, listening for the invitation that is particular to your present experience.  Ask, “What is God calling me to be or do?”
5. Take a few moments of quiet to rest thankfully in what God has given.

3: Talk About the Story

​​Below is a 1-page sheet you can download with questions that can be answered by all ages, so feel free to spend time answering them in a group conversation, or with family around the dinner table. You can also use them for personal reflection, or in connection with one of the other exercises that’s listed.

Questions Download

4: Read the Story in 4 Different Translations

​​Choose 4 different versions of Matthew 14:13-22. Read through the translations a number of times. As you do so, circle things with a coloured pencils. Draw arrows and shapes to identify patterns and connections. Write down questions that emerge. Take note of what is different, and what is the same. Pay attention to how the meaning might change as a result.

Four Translations Download

​5: Compare the 4 Versions of the Story in the Gospels

​Matthew, Mark, Luke and John each tell the story of the feeding of the 5000 in their own way. Read through the different versions a number of times. As you do so, underline things, draw coloured boxes around things, make arrows that highlight repeated ideas. Jot down questions that emerge. Pay attention to what is different and what is the same. Note how the authors’ choices highlight different aspects, or draw out different meanings.

Four Gospels Download

6: Memorize the Story

​Here is a 2-page sheet with tips on memorizing Matthew 14:13-22.

How to Memorize Download

REMINDERS:

• Tell your story about your experience of the Practice of the Month.
• Share a picture on Highland’s Facebook page. Offer a brief reflection on the Highland blog.
• Tell a story during the Gathered Prayers meeting on Zoom.