Last Epiphany - Small Group Questions

Mk 9:2-9
1. Can you recall a time outdoors, in nature, when you had an intense experience of God's presence? Share this with the group.
2. Was Peter's response appropriate? If not, why do you think he responded this way?
3. Do you think you would be tempted to speak into God's revelation? If so, why do you think this is? What anxiety would you be attempting to relieve?
4. How comfortable are you with silence? Are you less comfortable with it than you used to be, or more? Why do you think this is?
5. Reflect on all those things that have contributed to a lack of silence in your life. How might you limit or eliminate them to create more space for silence? Do you even want to?
6. What is your greatest fear about spending more time in silence with God?
7. Are you able to bear witness with others in their pain and loss? Or do you feel compelled to speak when no words are adequate?
8. What do you think was the point of God's message to those on the mountain?
9. Do you accept that faith in Jesus Christ requires sacrificial suffering? Or are you hoping to have the glory without the cost? How might suffering and sacrifice lead to a more mature and deeper faith?