In this exploration of 1 Samuel 9-12, we delve into the intriguing story of Saul's ascension to kingship and Samuel's complex reaction. We're reminded of our human tendency to judge by appearances, as Saul is initially described as tall and handsome. Yet, the narrative subtly warns us against such superficial assessments. As we witness Samuel's reluctance to anoint Saul, we're invited to reflect on our own moments of passive resistance to God's will. This story challenges us to examine where we might be holding back in our own lives, whether out of wisdom or fear. Ultimately, we're encouraged to move forward with purpose, trusting in God's presence even amidst our doubts and hesitations.

Community is shaped by the conversations we share. These questions and reflections are a tool to help you meaningfully engage with the themes of this week's teaching.

Summer Discussion Guide 2024

If your group is meeting this summer and wants to talk about the sermons, here are a few questions that you could use to engage with our teaching.

- What specific part of the message resonated with you the most? Why do you think that particular part, or idea, or story caught your attention?

- Did the sermon speak into a particular struggle or question in your life or your faith journey right now?

- What did the message challenge or encourage you personally?
And what do you think the application could be for our church community? Was there anything that could strengthen or stretch us as a church?

- How did the exposition of the scriptures used in the sermon provide you with a new perspective of deeper understanding?

It is good to remember that the conversation experience in the group is shaped by the personal stories of those who participate in it and how willing the people are to be open and vulnerable in the group.

So if you’re leading the discussion, feel free to model and encourage person-centred and story-centred sharing by reflecting on how some parts of the sermon resonate with you personally.

Additionally, what contributes to a more authentic group discussion is when people can share not about the abstract and theoretical applications but one or two practical things they are taking away from either the sermon or the discussion.

So, you can end your time together with this question:

- What is one thing you are taking away from either the sermon or the discussion we’ve just had?

Concluding section of the sermon used as a benediction:
Samuel’s story reminds me that I have no choice but to carry my hurt and my love.
My care for others, and my boundaries from them.
The light of my hope for what lies ahead, and the shadow of my past experience.
I have no choice to carry these contradictions because I am a person — a consciousness — a soul constantly changing, shifting, and emerging.
And I hope his story does the same for you.
Teaching you to trust that, just like Samuel seems to, God is at work in all the contradictions. Amen.

CALL TO WORSHIP Psalm 23

MUSIC Curated by Clint Siebert
The McClures - Reign Above It All
Kristin Stanfill - In Christ Alone
Hillsong Worship - O Praise The Name Brooke Ligertwood - A Thousand Hallelujahs

YOUTH GRADUATION PRAYER
Written by Alexandra Chubachi

Hi, my name is Alexandra, the youth pastor on staff here at Commons. June is a time of big transitions for our youth. We have grade six students looking ahead to Jr High, Grade 9 students anticipating the big move to High School, and grade 12 students graduating.

I love how times of transition, big or small, give us a moment to look back at the path we’ve walked, and give voice to the anticipation of what’s to come. So, lets do that now with a prayer for students at the end of the school year.

God of expansive love,

Here we are, at the end of another school year, feeling all the June feelings. Many youth in this room are both tired of the final exams and events, and excited for the break that is coming. Give them energy for the final push and refresh them in quiet moments.

We bless the uniqueness of each student here at Commons. May they know that they are a gift, regardless of their gifts.

We bless the parents and caregivers who have walked with these kids along the way. May they feel your Divine comfort as they grieve the “letting goes”, and your Divine pride in their beloved children. Give them wisdom, compassion, and a sense of humour.

For the students who are looking at a big transition over the next few months we ask for deep peace over the coming changes. We pray that they will lean into practices of habit, self-care, and reflection. We pray for friendships that are uplifting. We pray for adults in their life who they can trust. We pray that they learn to trust themselves.

Thank you for meeting us with unflappability, may these youth never hold back from asking You their tough questions.

Thank you for meeting us with playfulness, may these youth hold on to their curiosity.

Thank you for meeting us with tenderness, may these youth find comfort in you when they are heartbroken or overwhelmed.

Thank you for meeting us with expansive love, may these youth explore their beliefs knowing your love goes wider and deeper than they can imagine. Amen.

Here’s Your King

Summary

Discussion

Prayer

Liturgy

Trying to Manipulate God

You Don't Want a King