Your Personal Grow-Pray-Study (GPS) Guide

Context:

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faithful Jews living in exile in Babylon. They served the empire with distinction (Daniel 1–2), but their ultimate loyalty remained with the one true God. When King Nebuchadnezzar built a massive golden image and required everyone to bow down and worship it, they respectfully refused. This was no small act of civil disobedience—it was a death sentence. With the punishment of death, they remained courageous. Their willingness to give up their bodies (v. 28) points forward to the One who did give up His body—Jesus Christ. Unlike Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Jesus was not spared from death. He entered the ultimate fire—judgment and the cross—to rescue us eternally. We may not always be rescued from earthly trials, but we know we are never alone in them. And because Jesus was faithful even to death, we can trust Him in every fire we face.

Icebreaker:

What's a time in your life when you had to stand up for something, even though it made things uncomfortable? (School, work, family, etc.)

What stands out to you from Daniel 3? What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.)

The command from Babylon is “You must fall down and worship... or be thrown into a blazing furnace” (v. 6). Where do Christians today experience pressure to conform in ways that conflict with faith? In your own life, are there places where it’s hard to live out your faith with integrity?

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego respectfully say “no.” When threatened with the fiery furnace, they tell Nebuchadnezzar: “Our God can save us... but even if he does not... we will not serve your gods” (v. 18). Where in your life do you struggle to say “even if he does not,” and trust God? What false expectations about God’s protection or blessing are hardest to let go of?

“I see four men walking in the fire... and the fourth looks like a son of the gods” (v. 25). What does it mean that God didn’t keep them out of the fire, but met them in it? How might you recognize God’s presence in your own fiery trials or suffering? How could you be that fourth presence for someone else who feels alone in the fire?

Close with prayer… maybe some “even if” prayers. Pray to be able to recognize the fourth man in the fire.

Context:

Nebuchadnezzar’s disturbing dream reveals God’s sovereignty — not just over Babylon, but over all human history. The Babylonian wise men admit that what the king is asking is impossible. Only “the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh,” could do such a thing (Daniel 2:11). That’s the irony: Daniel’s God does dwell with His people—and He answers prayer. Daniel, facing death, responds not with panic but with prayer. He gathers his friends and they seek wisdom from the “God of heaven.” When God reveals the mystery, Daniel responds with thankfulness and praise. He knows this moment is not about power or prestige—it’s about pointing to the God who knows all, rules all, and is drawing near to His people.

Icebreaker:

What’s the strangest or most vivid dream you can remember having? (You don’t have to share the whole thing — just a snippet. Did it ever make you feel like it meant something? Don’t be weird!}

Read Daniel 2:1-23 aloud. What stands out to you in this passage? What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media)

Why do you think God revealed the dream not to Daniel directly, but to Nebuchadnezzar?

Daniel’s first response to the vision (being able to interpret the dream by the power of God) is praise. Why is it significant that worship comes before action? What does Daniel’s prayer teach us about God’s character and power? (Daniel 2:20-23)

What does the Babylonian statement (Daniel 2:11) reveal about their view of the divine? How is the God of Scripture different? Do you think people see the God we worship as far off, distant, or “up there”? How do we respond to that? How does this chapter ultimately point us to Jesus, the true “God who dwells with us”? (John 1:14; Colossians 1:19)

What’s one way you can “point to God” this week in your conversations or actions, especially in places of pressure or uncertainty?

Close with prayer, asking God for strength to “thrive in Babylon.”

Context:

Daniel 1 begins with exile. Young Israelites—Daniel and his friends—are taken from Jerusalem to Babylon. They’re stripped of their names, taught a new language, and enrolled in a royal training program. The goal? Reprogram them. Babylon didn’t just want their service; it wanted their hearts. Daniel and his friends face a quiet, subtle test—not to renounce God, but to gradually forget Him. The pressure wasn’t loud, but it was real. And it’s a pressure many of us still face today. You may not have chosen Babylon, but God has chosen you for Babylon

Icebreaker (Choose One):

When have you been in a situation where you felt out of place, but knew you had to stay true to who you are? OR If someone gave you a new name based on your job or personality, what would it be? (e.g., “Email Answerer,” “Snack-Bringer,” “Chaos Coordinator”)

Read Daniel 1 aloud. What stands out to you in this passage? What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.)

What’s the strategy Babylon uses to “assimilate” Daniel and his friends? Why do you think that was effective?

Verse 8 says, “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself...” Why was food in line for Daniel? What do you notice about how Daniel made his stand? What does that tell us about courage and discernment? Where do you experience subtle pressure to conform—to keep your faith quiet, blend in, or compromise? Have you ever faced a decision like Daniel’s—not where your faith is outlawed, but where it’s unwelcome or inconvenient? What did you do? What are some “Babylon” environments in your life right now? (Work? Social media? School? Family? Avoid political rants… this isn’t the time)

What does it mean that Daniel didn’t demand the whole system change, but still stayed faithful? Why do you think God honored Daniel’s faithfulness with influence?

Daniel had resolved before the test came. What are some convictions you’ve “pre-decided” to hold? What would it look like to be both respectful and resolute in your setting?

Close with prayer, asking God for strength to “thrive in Babylon.”

Context:

In this dramatic exchange, Jesus confronts His critics with a bold and unmistakable claim: “Before Abraham was, I AM.” This is not merely a claim of pre-existence. It is a declaration of divine identity—an echo of Exodus 3:14, where God reveals Himself to Moses as “I AM WHO I AM.”

Jesus is claiming not just to precede Abraham chronologically, but to exist eternally as God Himself. St. Augustine notes the precision in Jesus’ words: He does not say, “Before Abraham was, I was,” which would merely imply longevity. He says, “I AM”—a name belonging to the eternal, unchanging Creator.

Abraham was made. Jesus is.This mystery lies at the heart of the Trinity. One God, eternally existing in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus reveals not just information about God but embodies God Himself.

Icebreaker:

What’s something from your past (a song, smell, photo, etc.) that instantly transports you back to a moment in time?

The icebreaker reminds us that we live in a world of was, while encountering a God who is. Now, read John 8:48-59 aloud. Discuss what stood out to you from this week’s homily. (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.) What stands out to you in this passage?

Why do you think Jesus chose this specific phrase—“I AM”? How does it connect with God's self-revelation in Exodus 3:14? What does this passage reveal about Jesus' relationship with God the Father? How does this shape our understanding of the Trinity?

How does the idea that Jesus "is"—eternal and unchanging—comfort you or challenge you in today’s world of constant change?

Have you ever put too much weight on something “created”—your job, reputation, family history—as a source of identity or meaning? What happens when those things fade or fail?

How can remembering that God is the eternal “I AM” help us navigate grief, anxiety, or uncertainty? Think of a current situation in your life that feels unstable or uncertain. How might focusing on the eternal nature of Jesus change the way you see or respond to it?

Pray for one area where you are seeking stability or guidance.

Context:

This conversation takes place during Holy Week, in the upper room. Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure. He’s been speaking about love, obedience, and the coming of the Holy Spirit. The disciples didn’t fully understand Jesus’ words at the time. But Jesus promises that after He departs, the Spirit will remind them, teach them, and fill them with peace. Luther’s Small Catechism reminds us: “I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel…” This Pentecost reading reminds us that the same Spirit is still at work—teaching, reminding, comforting, and giving peace that the world cannot give.

Icebreaker:

What’s something meaningful or wise someone once told you — but you didn’t understand or appreciate it until much later?

Read John 14:23-31 aloud. What stood out to you from this week’s homily? What stands out to you in this passage?

Verse 23 speaks of the Father and the Son making their home with those who love Jesus. What does it mean for you that God makes His “home” with us?

In verse 26, Jesus says the Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance all that He has said. Why is remembering such a key part of faith? Have you ever had an experience where the Holy Spirit brought Scripture to mind at the right time, or remembrance of a success or season that God had clearly orchestrated for you? What was that like?

Jesus gives peace “not as the world gives” (v. 27). What might “worldly peace” look like—and how is Jesus’ peace different? When life feels chaotic or uncertain, how does the peace of Christ meet you in that space? How can this peace be more than “theoretical” for you?

What are some ways you can cultivate a heart that is open to the Spirit’s teaching and reminders? (Examples: regular Scripture reading, prayer, worship, etc.; remember: God wants to communicate with you – how can your heart be tuned to listen?)

Close with prayer, thanking God for the abiding gift of the Holy Spirit, and asking for grace to listen.

Context:

Luke 24 is the final chapter of Luke’s Gospel, and it ends not with mourning but with joy. Jesus, having risen from the dead, meets with His disciples one last time. He explains how everything written in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms had to be fulfilled. He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, showing them that His suffering, death, and resurrection were not accidents but divine necessities. He then commissions them to preach repentance and forgiveness to all nations, promising the power of the Holy Spirit before ascending to heaven.

Icebreaker:

If you could be a witness to any moment in history, what would it be and why?

Read Luke 24:44-53 aloud. What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.) What stands out to you in this passage?

Why do you think Jesus emphasized that everything written in the Scriptures had to be fulfilled? What does this say about the nature of God’s plan and Jesus’ mission?

Jesus outlines the church’s mission in Luke 24:47: to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name to all nations. Why do you think this is the heart of the message? Where has the church (think broadly) done a good job with this? Where has the church missed the mark?

Jesus tells the disciples they are witnesses of these things. What does it mean to be a “witness” of Christ in your life today? Is witnessing more about what we say or how we live, or both? (Hint: both!)

Before Jesus ascends, He blesses them. Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “blessed to be a blessing.” What does that mean to you? Where have you seen someone live out this phrase in their life? How has this inspired you?

After Jesus ascends, the disciples return “with great joy” and worship continuously (v. Luke 24:52–53). How do worship and joy equip us to carry out the mission of Jesus? What practices help you maintain joy and worship in your walk with Christ?

Close by thanking God for His Word, for sending Jesus, and for making us witnesses. Ask for boldness, patience in waiting, and joy in the journey.

Context:

John's Gospel often highlights specific signs (miracles) that reveal Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the giver of eternal life. In John 5, we encounter Jesus in Jerusalem at the Pool of Bethesda, a place where many sick and disabled people gathered, hoping for healing. The belief was that an angel would occasionally stir the water, and the first person to enter the pool after the stirring would be healed. This story sets the stage for a powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority over illness and human limitations, pointing to a more profound spiritual healing. It also foreshadows Jesus's conflict with the religious authorities who prioritized their traditions over compassion.

Icebreaker:

If you could instantly heal one physical ailment (yours or someone else's), what would it be and why?

Read John 5:1-8 aloud. What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.) What stands out to you in this passage?

Like the man at the pool, we sometimes find ourselves in situations where we feel helpless or stuck physically, emotionally, or spiritually. What are some "pools of Bethesda" in our lives today – places or situations where we wait for something or someone to fix us, but feel unable to act?

Jesus' Question:

Jesus asks the man, "Do you want to get well?"

On the surface, this seems like an obvious question. Jesus' question challenges us to consider our desires for wholeness. Are there areas in our lives where we might be comfortable with our brokenness or even resistant to the healing God offers, perhaps because it would require us to change?

The man focused on the pool and his inability to get into it. Jesus, however, offers a solution that transcends his limitations. How might we limit God's power in our lives by focusing too much on our perceived inabilities or traditional solutions?

Jesus commands the man to "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." This involves an act of faith and obedience. Moving that mat was significant because it was the equivalent of moving from what had been his home. Jesus also invites us away from our places of comfort, the places that we once "put our trust" after experiencing his grace.

Close with prayer, thanking God for the healing He offers our souls through Jesus.

Context:

John 13:31-35 occurs just after Judas leaves the Last Supper to betray Jesus. Jesus knows the cross is just hours away, yet in that dark moment, He speaks of glory-the glory of His self-giving love. Then, He gives a "new" commandment. The command isn't new in that love had never been taught before (see Leviticus 19:18), but new in motive and measure. Jesus commands love not based on law or duty, but in response to His own love- a love that stoops to wash feet and hangs on a cross. This is the cruciform love of Christ, a love that renews us and binds us into a new community. We now live in the light of Easter, with the risen Jesus sending us out to love one another.

Icebreaker:

Who is someone in your life who has shown you love in a simple but unforgettable way? How do you know what they’re showing you is love (try to define the characteristics of love)?

Read John 13:31-35 aloud. What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media) What stands out to you in this passage?

Why does Jesus say this is a "new" commandment? What's different about it? How does the timing of Jesus' words (right after Judas departs, before His crucifixion) affect how you hear this commandment?

Have you ever felt challenged to love someone who has hurt or disappointed you? How did you respond—or how do you wish you had? Are there people you find easy to love and others you tend to avoid? What might Jesus be inviting you to see or do differently?

What does it look like to love someone who is especially difficult, condescending, and makes your life difficult?

In what ways is Christian love different from the love the world often offers?

When we hear “love as I have loved you,” we immediately get anxious and wonder, “How can I ever love like Jesus!?” St. Therese of Lisieux (19th-century nun) said, "Do small things with great love." Author Ann Voskamp writes, “The way you live your ordinary days adds up to one extraordinary life.” Reflect on those two statements.

Invite someone to close in prayer, thanking Jesus for His love and asking for courage and compassion to love others as He has loved us.

Context:

Revelation 7 offers a powerful pause amid the chaos of judgment and tribulation (Revelation 6). First, we see the Church Militant, the 144,000, symbolizing the faithful, sealed people of God on earth, equipped for mission. But in verses 9-17, the curtain is drawn back to reveal the Church Triumphant: a countless host from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing victorious before God's throne. This vision is not of a distant fantasy – it is the promised outcome of God's mission through Jesus Christ. The crowd wears white robes, made pure by the blood of the Lamb. Their hymn of praise centers not on themselves but on God and the Lamb, who alone bring salvation.

Icebreaker:

If you could be part of any crowd or event in history, what would it be and why? (e.g. Woodstock, the Papal Conclave, etc.)

Read Revelation 7:9-17 aloud. What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media.) What stands out to you in this passage? How does this heavenly scene compare to how you usually picture heaven?

The multitude includes people "from every nation, tribe, people, and language." How does this reflect God's promise to Abraham? (See Genesis 12:3 and 15:5) How does this passage shape the way we think about the mission of the Church today?

In verse 10, the people cry, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" What's the difference between saying "I was saved" and "Salvation belongs to God"?

Verse 14 speaks of "those who come out of the great tribulation." Though there are many interpretations of this, broadly speaking, the world the saints are coming out of is the “tribulation.” The world is full of division, suffering, pain, tears, loss, hatred, anger, etc. How does this vision of being “clothed in white robes, having been washed in the blood of the lamb” comfort you as you navigate this world?

Verse 17 says the Lamb will be their Shepherd. Our heart always seeks a shepherd. Sometimes, we make the wrong thing our shepherd. Politicians, cultural figures, celebrity pastors, etc. If they are not serving as under-shepherds to Jesus, they are not shepherds. How has Jesus the Shepherd guided you in how you should go (even if you didn’t follow those promptings)?

How might seeing your current struggles from the perspective of Revelation 7 change your response?

Close with prayer, giving special attention to the theme of Jesus as the worthy Shepherd.

Context:

John 21 occurs after Jesus has appeared twice to His disciples after the resurrection (John 20). Despite this, the disciples seem unsure of what to do next—they return to fishing, perhaps feeling directionless. Peter, especially, must have felt a lingering shame from his threefold denial of Jesus. This final chapter in John is a beautiful scene of grace. Jesus meets Peter not with shame, but with breakfast. Then, He gently restores Peter by asking him three times, “Do you love me?”—mirroring Peter’s three denials. Jesus doesn’t just forgive Peter; He recommissions him: “Feed my sheep.” This is a story about how resurrection grace doesn’t just raise Jesus—it raises us from guilt and failure into purpose and mission.

Icebreaker:

Have you ever had a moment when someone believed in you even after you messed up? What did that mean to you?

Read John 21:1-19 aloud.

What stands out to you in this passage? What stood out to you from this week’s homily? (Previous homilies can be watched at christlamesa.org/media).

Peter had denied Jesus three times when Jesus was on trial. How do you imagine he felt in this moment by the fire? Then, Jesus asks him three times, “Do you love me?” What might have been going through Peter’s mind during this exchange? Though Jesus was trying to “reverse” the guilt of the denial story, Jesus never directly mentions Peter’s denial. What does that tell us about how He handles failure and sin? Where (and why) do you struggle to hold people’s failures and sins like Jesus?

Share a time (if you're comfortable) when you were given a second chance. What did it teach you about grace?

Sinners make the best missionaries. Jesus says, “But he who is forgiven little, loves little” (Luke 7:47). Respond to this statement from the book Scandalous Stories: “We don’t love little because we have little that requires forgiveness. We love little because we’ve confessed little and hidden much. Therefore, we experience little forgiveness.” How do you think Peter’s experience with Jesus’ forgiveness changed how he loved others going forward? How can reflecting on God's forgiveness change how you look at others?

Close with prayer, giving special attention to “forgiveness” and “restoration.”