You be you.
People are made in God’s image: unique, beloved, and full of potential. That image is never lost, but it can be blurred. If we’re honest, we know ourselves to be a mix of beauty and weakness, of generosity and selfishness, of open-heartedness and stuck attitudes. This isn’t about being perfect or pretending to have it all together. It’s about being real: showing up with kindness, admitting where we fall short, and trusting that God’s grace meets us there. When we live with honesty and courage—different and marvellous as we all are—others may glimpse Jesus in us. This week, we’ll think about how our everyday actions, words and attitudes can speak of God’s love, often more powerfully than we realise.
Mini-adventures
Pick one of these challenges to try out this week. As you do it, pay attention to the ways in which God might show up.
- Share something that makes you feel vulnerable with someone you trust – perhaps it involves opening up about something. How did you feel as you shared it? How do you think it affected your relationship?
- Think of three things about yourself that you value or that others appreciate. Then think of three things you struggle with—mistakes, habits, or attitudes you wish were different.
Get talking
John 4:4-42 – The encounter with a woman at the well
- Jesus offers "living water" to satisfy our deepest needs. What are you "thirsty" for that only Jesus can fill?
- The woman was honest about her life. Why is being honest and transparent an attractive quality in people?
- How might God be inviting you to respond to this passage?
Get inspired
- What do you notice in this artwork?
- How does it make you feel?
Get deeper
When we live honestly, with kindness, vulnerability, and generosity, we begin to notice something amazing: love bubbling up in our lives, in the lives of those around us, and even in the world in small, unexpected ways. Moments of patience, acts of care, words that heal rather than hurt: these are glimpses of something bigger breaking through. This can be a sign of what Jesus called the Kingdom of God: God’s love and goodness bursting into our everyday world, showing us what life can be when God’s presence changes how we live, act, and relate to one another. In meeting Jesus, the Samaritan woman discovered God’s presence in her life. We can discover that too, because God’s kingdom is ready to break out all around us. And when that happens, we'll want to share this love onwards.
- The Kingdom grows gently, like a seed. Where have you seen quiet, gradual growth in your life, and how could you nurture it?
- Jesus spoke of a “rival kingdom” that challenged the world’s expectations. Where do you feel called to challenge unfairness or injustice around you?
- How do your daily choices—like time, money, or media—show that you are choosing God’s Kingdom over other pressures?
Prayer
Loving God,
You are the Father who runs to meet us,
the Mother who embraces us with open arms.
Thank you for your boundless love and forgiveness,
even when we wander far from you.
Holy Spirit, guide us home.
Help us to return to you with open hearts,
and to celebrate when others do the same.
Teach us to love without judgment,
to forgive as we have been forgiven,
and to welcome all into your grace.
May we reflect your mercy in our lives,
and share the joy of your reign with everyone we meet.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.