February 21, 2021: Episode 83 | Speaking of Quiet Phases
The message that sparked the conversation ... Do You See Anything?.
Are you uncomfortable with silence or do you need it to think clearly? How do you feel during the pause between asking a question and getting an answer? Join us in a discussion about waiting in the dark, Mark chapter 8, and quiet phases.
Discussion Questions
(1) What experience do you have in planned activities that requires a "quiet phase" (e.g., spiritual retreat, youth event, strategic planning, fund-raising campaign, or a surprise trip). Were you an insider, part of the planning, or a later participant, temporarily left in the dark?
(2) With these types of planned activities, why is a quiet phase important?
(3) What kinds of misunderstandings might arise during the quiet phase?
(4) Mark chapters 8-10 report a quiet phase during Jesus' ministry. The urgency, excitement, and publicity of his work fades for a time a retreat with his disciples. Just before this phase begins, Mark reports how Jesus restores the sight of a blind man in two stages, which may also say something symbolically about the disciples' understanding of Jesus and his mission. Take a listen to these excerpts (Mark 8:22 - 9:9) and pick a word or a phrase that stands out to you. Why did that get you?
(5) Reflecting on this, what are you getting to know more deeply about Jesus and his mission?
(6) How is this good news for you?
(7) Coming away from this conversation, what do you want to say to people in your household, congregation, or neighborhood?