The Attentive Life
For Meditation (Elisabeth Hayes)
This Sunday as we kick off a new ministry year together, we’ll explore the idea that attention is at the heart of discipleship. In a world that constantly competes for our time and focus, the early church in Acts 2 shows us a different way of life—a life transformed by the Spirit of Jesus, marked by deep attention to God, one another, and the world around them. We’ll reflect on how we become what we behold, and how our calendars and commitments reveal what we love. As a new school year begins and routines fill up, we’ll consider how to intentionally respond to God’s loving attention by shaping our lives around the rhythms of worship, fellowship, and mission. We’ll consider whether Jesus really wants us to have a better life–or just a busier one?
In preparation for worship, consider:
What currently gets most of your attention on a daily or weekly basis? How do you see that shaping your desires, emotions, or priorities?
Read Acts 2:42–47. What stands out to you about the way the early church lived? Where do you see parallels (or differences) in your own life or community?
Where might God be inviting you to give more attention this fall—to him, to a neighbor, to your community, or to a specific place of mission?
What might it look like for your household or Parish Group to live more intentionally this season? Is there one new rhythm you can begin together?
Acts 2:42–47
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.