Shame

Scripture Reading: Luke 19:1-10

Opening Question:

What does Jesus say or do in this passage that most surprises you?

Core Question 1:

What healing does Jesus offer Zaccheus? What, if anything, does it require of Zaccheus?

Core Question 2:

How do you think Zaccheus felt before, during, and after this encounter with Jesus? Can you relate to his experience in any way?

Core Question 3:

What does Henri Nouwen, author of Life of the Beloved, believe is be true? Do you agree?

“The world tells you many lies about who you are, and you simply have to be realistic enough to remind yourself of this.  Every time you feel hurt, offended, or rejected, you have to dare to say to yourself: ‘These feelings, strong as they may be, are not telling me the truth about myself.  The truth even though I cannot feel it right now, is that I am the chosen child of God, precious in God’s eyes, called the Beloved from all eternity, and held safe in an everlasting embrace.’

Concluding Question:

Can you relate to feeling ashamed, isolated, or unlovable? What might Jesus be saying to you about that today?