Section 163:8b
Rivers of Living Water

For Further Reflection and Discussion

1. Return to the image of the cross and spiral developed by the Temple Strategic Team. Can you see in this illustration the movement into relationship with the Divine that then propels us into the world? What does this image suggest about spiritual disciplines and practices that lead into deeper relationship with God? How does the movement of the spiral send us into mission?
2. Which of the many spiral shapes woven into nature and creation carry the most personal meaning for you. Why have so many church members found a connection with the spiral form?
3. What does it mean to lift high the cross? In what ways can the cross and the spiral be complementary?
4. Identify some of the many references to flowing rivers in the church’s books of scripture. How do “rivers of living water” relate to the good news of Jesus Christ?
5. Read or sing “God, Who Touchest Earth with Beauty” (Hymns of the Saints, No. 172). Look at how images from nature are connected with spiritual renewal. What do you think prompted author Mary S. Edgar to write these words? When have you found renewal through interaction with nature?
6. President Steve Veazey is quoted as saying, “As we become a people of the Temple, we will be led to embrace what matters most in the life of the church.” Which of the nine points following that statement mean the most to you? Why?
7. Imagine if all Community of Christ congregations and gatherings (camps, reunions, conferences, etc.) included a daily prayer for peace. What effect do you think that would have on those individual gatherings as well as the church at large? What effect might it have on those outside the fellowship of Community of Christ?
8. In his testimony, Blair White stated that he is “the temple that is to be an ensign of peace in the world.” What does that mean?
9. How does the Temple as life-giving symbol have an impact on ministries of the church worldwide?

Discernment Activity

Using the illustration of cross and spiral, use your finger to trace the pattern inward and then outward. Then trace the cross. Continue these tracing motions. Let them become routine. As you trace the spiral and cross, consider how these images might represent your spiritual journey. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts. For a color, printable version of this illustration, along with guidelines for using the illustration, go to the church’s Web site: www.CofChrist.org/graphics/crossandspiral.asp

• Look for spirals where you live. Consider the significance of these patterns found in nature and creation.
• Pray for help in opening your eyes to the connection between the spiral of the Temple, the cross of Jesus Christ, and your life. Ask God to make you aware of the divine spark that is present in all of creation and your place in this divine creation.
• Think of a relationship that would be helped by these insights and share them so that “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.”