Our Community Table

  The Lantern Keeper's Choice The wind carried the scent of rain as Elias climbed the narrow stone path that wound its way to the old lighthouse overlooking Graywater Bay. Every evening for nearly forty years, he had made the same climb. Every evening he lit the great lantern that guided fishermen safely through hidden reefs and dangerous currents. The villagers admired Elias for his faithfulness. They often said, "If the lantern burns, we can always find our way home." Yet there was something no one knew. Inside the lighthouse was a small wooden chest. Hidden beneath old charts and weathered ropes lay a stack of letters. Each letter contained an offer from wealthy merchants. "Leave the lighthouse," one read. "Work for us, and we will make you rich." Another promised, "You have wasted your life serving strangers. Come serve yourself." Each year the offers became more generous. Each year Elias burned them unopened. Or at least...he us...

Small Group Study Guide Fish, Freedom, and the Gospel Matthew 17:24–27; 1 Corinthians 9:19–23; Romans 12:17–18 Theme True Christian freedom is not insisting on our rights—it is willingly laying down our rights when doing so helps others see Jesus more clearly. Opening Prayer Ask God to speak through His Word and help your group become more like Christ. Icebreaker Describe a time when you insisted on being right and later realized the relationship was more important than winning. Read Together Matthew 17:24–27 1 Corinthians 9:19–23 Romans 12:17–18 Understanding the Passage Why did the tax collectors approach Peter? According to Jesus, who is exempt from paying the king's taxes? If Jesus didn't have to pay the tax, why did He pay it anyway? What miracle did Jesus perform? Digging Deeper What is the difference between freedom and selfishness? Why is laying down our rights sometimes difficult? Paul says he became "all things to all people." What does that mean? What are s...

  You are invited to  "Our Community Table". We are a small group for meaningful conversations about Jesus, prayer, friendship, and spiritual growth. Everyone is welcome, and no question is off limits. Come as you are and leave encouraged We meet online every Thursday at 7 p.m. Pacific Time.  Our first meeting will be on 6/12. Meetings will continue every week at the same time. No need to register, just click on the link below! Click Here to Join Us Requirement: All discussions at the community table must remain confidential. What is said at our community table stays at the table.  If you have any questions or comments, or want to join the community table or receive a weekly reminder, please send an email to vajohns@att.net

 Study Guide for Our Community Table Jun2 18, 2026 Receiving What Only Heaven Can Give Key Scripture: "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven." — John 3:27 (NKJV) Opening Thought John the Baptist understood something that many believers struggle to remember: everything of eternal value comes from God. Knowledge of Christ, spiritual growth, wisdom, peace, and transformation are not achievements we earn; they are gifts we receive. Tozer often challenged Christians to move beyond merely knowing facts about Jesus and to pursue a living encounter with the Son of God. The greatest need of the Church is not more information but greater revelation of Christ Himself. When we see Jesus clearly, our priorities change, our worship deepens, and our hearts are transformed. John the Baptist's statement is both humbling and hopeful. It is humbling because we cannot manufacture spiritual life. It is hopeful because God delights in giving Himself to th...

 OBEDIENT DAILY LIVING The morning sun had barely risen when Elandor stepped outside his small dwelling on the edge of the quiet valley. The air was cool, the kind that brushed the skin with a gentle reminder that life was both fragile and renewing. He paused for a moment, letting the stillness settle into him. This was the hour he cherished most—the hour before the world stirred, before voices rose, before choices pressed themselves upon him. He carried no physical burden on his back, yet he felt the weight of something deeper, something chosen rather than imposed. It was not a cross of wood or iron, not the kind that ancient soldiers forced upon condemned men. His was different—voluntary, inward, invisible to the untrained eye. But it was real. He had learned long ago that the believer’s cross was not thrust upon him by an officer or a judge. No one pointed to a beam and commanded, “Carry this.” Instead, the invitation had come softly, almost quietly, from the One who had walked ...

  Study Guide: The Cross of Daily Obedience Basic Comprehension Questions Who is the main character in the story? What time of day did Elandor begin his walk? What kind of cross did Elandor carry? Who was Elandor's mentor? What lesson did Jorren teach about greatness? What realization did Elandor have during his season of spiritual drought? Who approached Elandor asking for help? What problem was Mira facing? How did Elandor help Mira's brother, Taren? According to Jorren, what is the difference between spiritual mediocrity and sainthood? Key Truths from the Story The believer's cross is chosen, not forced. Obedience often happens in ordinary moments. Following Christ involves dying to self rather than seeking dramatic suffering. True greatness is found in a willing heart. Daily acts of humility, repentance, and sacrifice are part of carrying one's cross. Application Questions What are some "ordinary" opportunities in ...