Scripture: Matthew 20:17-28

Synopsis: This Sunday is Abuse Awareness Sunday, and because all abuse involves a misuse of power, we’re looking at what Jesus had to say about the proper use of power.  Jesus condemns the understanding of power that was prevalent among the Gentile rulers of his day: power as a means to glorify one’s self or to get one’s way.  By contrast, Jesus used his power to take on the nature of a servant and seek the flourishing of others ahead of himself.  This week we will name the reality of abuse and how incompatible it is with the Kingdom of God.  In addition, we’ll all be invited to consider where God has given us the gift of power in our lives and to think about how we are using that power.