Introduction

It's common for Iowans to think it's better to plan for the worst and be surprised if things go well. Why set yourself up for failure by hoping? When you choose to follow Jesus, hope is different than naivete, and the Bible has a lot to say about it. In week two, Pastor John taught that no matter what may be “on you”, there’s hope it doesn’t repel Jesus from you.

Discussion

1. Revisit and read Leviticus 13:45-46. What do you think it was like for the leper in Luke 5 to live in isolation, with everyone avoiding him because of his disease? What kind of impact do you think this life would have on you?

2. Revisit and read Luke 5:12-16. What stands out to you about Jesus' response to the leper? How does this passage challenge your understanding of how Jesus views where you need help and healing most?

3. While this man needed practical healing, what he needed more was love – connection to God and others again.

• If you’re comfortable, share a time when someone in your life loved and welcomed you unconditionally when you needed help. What impact did it have on you?
• When you consider where you need help and healing most, have you ever considered what deeper needs or desires might be driving you under the surface? Do you know how you might start digging into this with God or someone else?

4. The leper questioned Jesus' willingness (not his ability), to heal him. Do you ever find yourself doubting God’s willingness to help you? What might be holding you back from trusting God and others will care for you where and when you need them most.

5. Pastor John emphasized that Jesus brings hope into even the most hopeless situations. How can you start living out this hope in your own life and extending it to others who feel isolated or "unclean" in some way?

Application

• Own it. Break away from the mindset that “this is the way it is” and believe in the hope that Jesus can heal anything in your life – no matter what it is or where you are.
• Connect it. Take steps to build relationships with others so you have people in your life who can care, relate, and support your life with God – no matter what.
• Remember it. This is a truth that can be hard to believe in the moment and the everyday flow of your life. Make environments and moments where you can be reminded of this truth on a regular basis so you don’t drift into patterns of doubt and hopelessness.