Small Group Topic: What's Your Storm?

I've been chronically ill since 1985. Sometimes the disease flares up and brings pain, fatigue, tests and pills. This week has been a tough one. I mentioned to my husband earlier this week he should be aware of the possibility of me not being available for the prison session. Turns out I was OK to go to the session, my point it, it's important to have a back up plan (to have another person fill in for a leader), and know when to use it.

I try to be very honest with the inmates, they certainly deserve that from the ministry volunteers. So, I level with them about the illness and the medicines involved. Remember, quite a few inmates are on medication, too.

We had a good opening prayer by one of the inmates, a good opening introduction from everyone, and a good couple of hymns were sung.

We read Psalm 121 around the room, several times. One inmates recited the 23 psalm from memory (an ongoing homework assignment for all people in the group), applause and cheering rewarded his success. Smiles were many.

Our lesson tonight was based on Matthew 8:23 - 26 - Jesus calms the storm. We read the passage several times, concentrating on the various parts.

Note that

• Jesus was WITH the disciples and trouble still came
• Some of these disciples were experienced fisherman who had seen and survived many storms
• The storm is described as "Furious" and the waves "Swept Over" the boat
• Jesus rebuked the disciples first (for lack of faith) Then rebuked the storm

We had around 15 minutes left. I try to focus the session at the end, so the guys are thinking on something solid when they leave.

So, I announced the main discussion questions for the evening. What is YOUR STORM now, and what action are you using in the storm to exhibit faith in Jesus? A very good discussion followed, some fellows really opened up and shared serious concerns in the their lives.

We closed with prayer.