Exploring Scripture is an experiential class that invites attendees to engage scripture in new ways. We focus on formation that allows the text to form us (and hopefully, transform us). The weekly Thursday class will primarily practice lectio divina, an ancient spiritual practice that allows us to experience scripture as God’s living Word. Latin for “divine or sacred reading,” lectio divina helps us interact with scripture through quiet reflection and listening for God’s leading.
If you are not able to attend the class, you may practice on your own.
If you are new to lectio divina, click here for instructions.
Sign Up Information
To sign up for class or to receive the weekly Reflection by email, exploringscripture@foothillsumc.org
Exploring Scripture meets each Thursday at 1:00 pm.
The current session begins April 9th, 2026 and goes through May 21st, 2026.
Exploring Scripture Reflection for class of April 23, 2026
Sermon Title: THE GATE
Scripture: John 10:1-10 NRSVUE
“Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.
So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Sue’s Thoughts: Meditate on the word GATE. What does it say to you or show you?