CURIOUS

Engagement Questions:

• In what ways can approaching conversations with curiosity rather than judgment help us better understand the perspectives and experiences of those who we differ with?

• How might embracing curiosity in our daily interactions challenge our own assumptions and biases?

• What practical step can you/we take to foster curiosity in our relationships, peer groups, workplace, church, families and friendships that contribute to overall well-being of these places and people?

Engagement Questions:

• What does the choice of a Samaritan as the hero of the story reveal about the nature of compassion and the importance of seeing beyond societal divisions?

• How can the actions of the Good Samaritan inspire us to respond to those in need in our own lives, particularly when it involves individuals from different backgrounds or beliefs?

• In what ways does the parable challenge us to reflect on our own biases and assumptions about others, and how can curiosity help us overcome these barriers?

Engagement Questions:

1. What practical steps can we take to demonstrate patience, gentleness and understanding in our relationships, especially when faced with differences or conflicts?

2. How can acknowledging our own imperfections, myopia, and struggles help us cultivate a spirit of grace when bearing with others in our disagreements?

3. In what ways does the act of bearing with one another in love contribute to a healthier life and faith?

Engagement Questions:

• How does the "us and them" mentality contribute to division and conflict, and what steps can we take to counteract this mindset?

• In what ways does the practice of "othering" people or groups create barriers to understanding, listening, and empathy, and how can we push against its harmful effects?

• What does Jesus' rebuke and redirection of James and John reveal about following Jesus?

Engagement Questions:

• What are some personal experiences where you have witnessed the beauty of grace in action, and how did those moments impact your understanding of grace?

• In what ways do you find it challenging to extend grace to others, especially in situations of conflict, disagreement, and difference, and how can you cultivate a more grace-filled attitude and presence in those moments?

• What do you think James Baldwin was getting at when he said, "I imagine one of the reasons people cling to their hates so stubbornly is because they sense, once hate is gone, they will be forced to deal with their pain."

Engagement Questions:

• This election week, and in life, are you able to name the "logs" in your eyes that keep you from seeing others clearly?

• What are some common biases or blind spots you might have that prevent you from recognizing your own faults while being quick to judge others, and how can self-reflection help you address these issues?

Engagement Questions:

• In what ways can recognizing and embracing my own limitations lead to personal growth and stronger relationships with others?

• How can I practice humility in my daily interactions, and what impact might this have on my understanding and appreciation of those around me?

• Humility is sustained through an intimacy with God and imitation of Jesus. How does this help with knowing yourself, checking yourself, and going beyond yourself?

• What are some of your elephants, things neither you or the others) in the relationship like to talk about, but both know are there?

• What is a group or a person you resent, what can you say you have in common? How might you belong in the big puzzle of life? This can be your bridge.

• Do you bring dynamite to the bridge? What would it look like to let it go?