March 14, 2021: Episode 86 | Speaking of Star-crossed Love
The message that sparked the conversation ... Widow's Mite.
What’s your favorite story of star-crossed love? If we know the relationship is doomed why do we keep reading? Join us in a conversation about unhappy endings and Mark chapter 11.
Discussion Questions
(1) Some people think "star-crossed" refers to people so in love that when they look at each other, they get starry-eyed. That's why Romeo and Juliet are called "star-crossed lovers," right? It turns out, no. Star-crossed means "headed for disaster." If you "dis" the stars (astro), that's bad news. So, along with Romeo and Juliet, drawing from literature, theater, film, or tv, can you think of another example of star-crossed love, that is, love headed for disaster?
(2) What bothers you about stories of star-crossed love?
(3) What is compelling about these stories? What makes them profoundly human?
(4) At the end of Mark chapter 12, we hear of a one woman's star-crossed love, that is, her devotion to a temple that is headed for disaster. Then, at the beginning of chapter 14, we hear of another woman's devotion to a teacher who is headed for disaster. As you listen to these excerpts from Mark's Gospel (12:38-44, 13:1-2, and 14:1-9), what's a word or a phrase that 'gets' you? After everyone shares their word or phrase, tell us why that stayed with you?
(5) Reflecting on this, what are you getting to know more deeply about Jesus?
(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?