Cracked Cisterns

Jeremiah 2:4-13

Fellowship – Snacks or a Meal (10 minutes with snacks; longer, obviously, if there is a meal)

Gathering Time (5-10 minutes). In groups of two or three, respond to the following, “What is your fondest memory?”

Group Dialogue (Approximately 30 minutes). Read: Jeremiah 2:4-13.

• In verse five, the prophet notes that God has observed the “worthless” things the people have sought. When have you been guilty of seeking worthless things?
• How is this passage about the people’s lack of memory?
• What practices and rituals help keep the memory fresh of what God has done for and through the covenant community? [Baptism, Communion, liturgies, Bible studies, and so on.]
• What are the two evils the people have committed (verse 13)?
• What might be the “cracked cisterns” in our lives today?
• (R) What does this passage tell us about the basis of God’s accusations against the people (v. 9)? What does this passage tell us about the importance of rituals for helping us to remember what God has done for us as individuals and as the community of faith?

Prayer (10 minutes). Share prayer requests and respond appropriately.

Sending Forth (2 minutes). End by praying the following or a similar prayer:

God of the prophets, you call us to reflect your character and glory. Forgive us when we have failed to live up to that calling. Forgive us and empower us again to be the people of God who point to your righteousness and justice as live giving ways for all people. Give us the courage to name injustices, speak truth to power, and point to the truth of your love. Amen