Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What were some of the regular meals on the menu in your house growing up?  Who cooked and who cleaned up?  Did you sit down together and eat?  What is your best memory from family meal time and what is your worst memory?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Exodus 12:26 indicates that the children will ask what the ceremony means.  What role do children play in our observance of the Lord’s Supper?  Why did God include the children in the Passover?

1. Read Exodus 12 and/or Luke 24 and rehearse that event in your mind.  What did you hear, smell, taste, see and feel?

1. Luke records no less than 10 meals that Jesus shared with people.  Find one and discuss its spiritual and theological significance.  (Remember Luke wrote Acts and the meal shared in Acts 2)

1. What are other notable meals in Scripture?  (Genesis 26:28-30; Exodus 18:12; Exodus 24:11; Joshua 9:12-15; II Samuel 3:20) You can use your concordance to find more.  Contemplate their significance for the occasion.

1. Passover was a meal of celebration.  We are often somber in our observance of the Lord’s Supper.  Should it be more of a celebration?  Should it look more like a meal than tiny samples?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What was home like for you growing up?  What was the floor plan of your house?  What was your favorite spot in the house?  What smells do you remember?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Pastor Kris mentioned that Jesus was likely walking through the Kidron Valley as he spoke the words of John 15. What significance does that have? (This is a “did you listen closely to the message” question! J)  What might be a modern image for the vine and the branches of John 15?

1. What are some practical ways that you might “remain” in Christ?

1. Do you remember a time when you were chosen last for something? (Think back to elementary gym class and kickball – UGH!) Or, a time when there was no place for you at the table at a party or special dinner?  How did you feel?  Read John 14:1-4 as Jesus leaves, what comfort does he give his followers?

1. What have you allowed to become a substitute for your “true home”?  If that is too difficult to answer, try: What is running a close second (to God) in your life as your true home?

1. How do you reconcile what Jeremiah 17:9 & Ecclesiastes 3:11 say about the heart? (see Proverbs 4:23 also)

1. Is there a connection between Jesus’  call for us to “remember”  (Luke 22:19) and Jesus’ call for us to “remain” in him (John 15)?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: How far off course have you gone on a trip.  When did you realize you were off course?  Who did you blame? (Who was really to blame?)

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What comes to mind when you hear the word wilderness? Have everyone in your group give at least one or two adjectives.

1. How long did it take the people to start grumbling against Moses after they were delivered from Egypt? (Exodus 15:22-24)  How long did it take them to want to return to Egypt and slavery? (Exodus 16:1-3)  What does this say about our need for patience in the wilderness?

1. Pastor Kris talked about “designer despair”.  Can you describe what this means?  Where have you observed this to be true in your life or others?  Give an example of someone you know who is more at home in their despair than they desire to find hope.

1. Review Deuteronomy 2:7 How has God provided for you in the wilderness?  What has He taught you in the wilderness?  Do you think He could have taught you those things had you never gone through the wilderness?

1. Read Numbers 14:20-25 The people were at the end of the wilderness and suddenly their journey got even tougher.  They chose not to trust God.  Was God too harsh in his judgement?

1. Many key biblical leaders: Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and Paul had wilderness experiences.  Even Jesus began his earthly ministry with a time in the wilderness.  Why is this so important to God’s plan for us?  Are you in the wilderness now?  Just on the other side? Nearing the end?

Agape means “love” in modern day Greek, which can also be translated to literally mean, “I love you”.  In Ancient Greek, it often refers to a general affection and many ancient Greek texts use the term to denote feelings for a good meal, one’s children, and the feelings for a spouse. It can be described as the feeling of being content or holding one in high regard. Many have thought that this word represents divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, and thoughtful love…God’s love!

Perhaps the best place to go to see agape love showing itself is in I Corinthians 13, often referred to as the New Testament “love chapter”.  Let’s discover how well we do with this “Agape Love”.
The first characteristic of agape love in I Corinthians is, “love is patient”.  I have to be honest, this is not one of my strong points.  I have a difficult time expressing this aspect of agape love.  However; when I look at God, I realize how patient His love is.  I see all the time how He patiently waits for me to come to Him to ask for help or to express my love for Him. He has the patience that a true father represents.
The second characteristic that is presented here is, “love is kind.”  How do you do with this?  I like to think I am a kind person, but unfortunately far too often human nature takes over and kind words and thoughts are far from my heart, mouth and mind.

Love does not boast, it is not rude.  This phrase makes me think of my own boys.  Being twins, competition is always at the forefront of conversation.  For the most part, the boys are compliant and share a special bond.  Recently, however, I came home to find one of them near tears.  He said that his brother was bragging because he did better on a test.  Boasting and rudeness come naturally to us.  After speaking with the brother, I realized that he was not even aware of what he was doing.  As I think about myself, I wonder how many times I am rude or boastful and don’t even realize it.  As Christians, the only thing we can boast of is what Christ has done for us! (Prov. 13:10; 16:18; Psalm 31:15; Daniel 4:30; 5:23; Matt. 7:5; Acts 17:28; 1 Cor. 12:25-25; 2 Cor. 11:20; 12:5-9; Col.1:17; Eph. 3:18-19; 1 John 1:6-7).

God’s (Agape) love is not self-seeking.  Selfishness should not be confused with seeking ourselves.  God wants us to find our innermost strengths and the gifts and talents He has graciously given us, but to help others in the process.  There are certain individuals that I know that have dedicated their lives to serving others and not themselves.  I consider that agape love that is not self-seeking.  I want to be like that!

The next characteristics of love is, “it is not easily angered”.  Wow, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t struggle with this.   A husband one day said to his wife, “You do not fight back when I get mad at you, how do you control your anger?” The wife responded, “I clean the toilet….” He said, “How does that help?” To which she said, “I use your toothbrush.”  I think it’s important to realize that this verse says that love is not EASILY angered.  It doesn’t say that there is never going to be moments where anger rises, but we have to learn to control it.  Thank the Lord for friends that can help us in this and hold us accountable.

I think the end of the chapter is my favorite…”Love never fails.”  This is when I know that only God is the one who has true Agape love.  I hate to think of all the times that I fail my family or even myself, but God never fails.  In all the hardships of life and rushing around, God never leaves us.  He is always there patiently waiting and guiding us.  God’s love (Agape) never fails!

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Opening: Have each person share a time that they made a wrong turn or somehow got lost or turned around or found themselves going in the wrong direction. Ladies, please be patient with the men as this may be a hard question for them to relate to!

Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message. Did they have questions? Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Review CAYG (Circumstances, Advisors, You, God) from last week’s message. Which part of the CAYG is your weakest? Was there a time you received advice or came to understand something about yourself but then refused to act upon it? Why didn’t you? Did you have the information you needed?

1. Read Proverbs 3:5-6 in at least three different versions of the Bible. (Leaders may need to come prepared for this. You can check out www.biblegateway.com) How do you trust, lean, and acknowledge? In what areas is this easy to do with God? In what areas is it hard?

1. It is ironic in light of Solomon’s later life that he wrote Proverbs 3:5-6 – see 1 Kings 3:7-13 with 1 Kings 11:4-5. What happened? What stood out to you in the discussion of idolatry?

1. Describe a time when incredible pressure or emotions changed a decision you had to make. Why are decision making times never emotionally neutral? Read 1 Samuel 15:3-23. What command did God give Saul? How did Saul disobey God? What were the results?

1. How does the statement: Choosing the right path begins with submission, not information, apply to you right now? What are you going to do as a result of what you’ve heard?

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: What is your dream job?  (Digging deeper: Describe what you believe is your life calling. How does your occupation enhance and/or hinder that calling?)

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Review Genesis 37: 1-10.  For those in the group who know the story of Joseph, how did his dreams as a young man shape his immediate future and long term future?

1. Circumstances:

Describe one circumstance in your past that has significantly shaped your life.  Read Jeremiah 29:11.  Has this promise always seemed true in your life?

1. Advisors:

If you were to choose a Board of Trustees or a Life Panel for your life, who would be on the list?

1. You:

Name a spiritual gift you think you might have.  How has God used this gift in your life? (Examples: Service, Helps, Hospitality, Teaching, Administration, Leadership, Intercession, Craftsmanship, Healing, Encouragement and more!)

1. God:

Mark 1:35 is only one place in Scripture where it tells us that Jesus went off by himself to pray.  Tell the group about a time you prayed for God’s direction.  Was your prayer answered in the way you expected?

Community Dialogue: Lake Central Schools Facility Master Planning – 6 pm Clark Middle School.  Drop me a note if you’re planning to join me for this! kvos@aboutccc.com

Membership Class Our next membership class starts this Sunday and will continue on February 21, & 28 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.  All adults and students 14 and up are welcome to come.  If you’re interested, contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Winter Fun Night for Families Join the fun as we co-sponsor a night with funny guy Keith Coast on February 21 at 4:00 p.m. at Faith Church.  Crossroads has only 150 tickets, so don’t wait to pick up your ticket!  The cost is $3.00 per ticket.

Baptism Our next baptism date will be February 21.  If you are a member of Crossroads and would like to have your child baptized, please contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Brickhouse SuperBowl Party Sunday, February 7^th all jr and sr high students are invited to watch the BIG game on BIG Screen at Brickhouse! Bring your friends and some of your favorite snacks to share! We’ll supply the soda! Just show up to Brickhouse at regular time (5:15 PM) and hang out until the game is over. There is no cost associated with this event but we do ask that you bring something eatable to share with the rest of us! Painted faces, Sports Jerseys and temporary tattoos (or permanent…whatever) are welcome! Have fun supporting your team! 5:15 — until the game ends!

Brickhouse Winter Sr High Retreat(WinterXtreme) Don’t wait to sign up – we only have 10 spots left.  The sr high retreat to Timber-lee is February 12 -14.  We will leave on Friday at 4:00 p.m. and return Sunday at 3:00 p.m  Cost is $140.00       For more information go to http://www.timber-lee.com/youth_programs/winterXtreme/index.html There is also a video from our jr high retreat with some of our students in it!

Prom Alternative The Christian Prom is a black-tie event held every year in the month of April.  This year’s date will be April 23 from 6:00 – Midnight.   It is open to all high school students. It is intended to be a fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing, and fellowship.  This year, it will be at the Halls of St. George.  Cost is $35.  See more information at www.christianpromrocks.com

Sermon Based Small Group Questions

Icebreaker: Describe your ideal vacation (location, activities, who goes?).  Do you return from vacation rested or exhausted? Why?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. In Exodus 20 Israel is told to keep the Sabbath because God did after creation and in Deuteronomy 5 Israel is told to keep the Sabbath because they were once slaves in Egypt.  What is the significance of each? Why the difference?

1. Read Ezekiel 20:12-13.  How important is Sabbath observance to our Father?

1. Jesus was frequently at odds with the religious leaders for breaking Sabbath laws.  (See Mark 2:23-28 what is meant by v. 27) Based on the message what do you think were the religious leaders missing in their understanding of Sabbath?

1. Discuss how the issues of pride, trust and generosity are related to Sabbath.

1. How well do you observe Sabbath?  Do you consider vacation Sabbath?

Membership Class Our next membership class will be on Sundays, February 7, 21, & 28 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.  All adults and students 14 and up are welcome to come.  If you’re interested, contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Men’s Fraternity All men ages 18 and up are welcome to join us for our Men’s group meeting every Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m.

Winter Fun Night for Families Join the fun as we co-sponsor a night with funny guy Keith Coast on February 21 at 4:00 p.m. at Faith Church.  Crossroads has only 150 tickets, so don’t wait to pick up your ticket!  The cost is $3.00 per ticket.

Baptism Our next baptism date will be February 21.  If you are a member of Crossroads and would like to have your child baptized, please contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Brickhouse SuperBowl Party Sunday, February 7^th all jr and sr high students are invited to watch the BIG game on BIG Screen at Brickhouse! Bring your friends and some of your favorite snacks to share! We’ll supply the soda! Just show up to Brickhouse at regular time (5:15 PM) and hang out until the game is over. There is no cost associated with this event but we do ask that you bring something eatable to share with the rest of us! Painted faces, Sports Jerseys and temporary tattoos (or permanent…whatever) are welcome! Have fun supporting your team! 5:15 — until the game ends!

Brickhouse Winter Sr High Retreat(WinterXtreme) Don’t wait to sign up – we only have 10 spots left.  The sr high retreat to Timber-lee is February 12 -14.  We will leave on Friday at 4:00 p.m. and return Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  Cost is $140.00.  For more information go to http://www.timber-lee.com/youth_programs/winterXtreme/index.html There is also a video from our jr high retreat with some of our students in it!

Snow Removal Help Needed! If you are available on Saturday or Sunday before the church services to snow blow (we own a snow blower!) and salt the sidewalks, please email Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Opportunity to Give to Haiti If you are looking for ways to contribute to the needs in Haiti, you can go to our denomination’s website at www.crwrc.org and make a donation.

Prom Alternative The Christian Prom is a black-tie event held every year in the month of April.  This year’s date will be April 23 from 6:00 – Midnight.   It is open to all high school students. It is intended to be a fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing, and fellowship.  This year, it will be at the Halls of St. George.  Cost is $35.  See more information at www.christianpromrocks.com

Crown Point Christian Breakfast Please join Crown Point Christian School for a delicious hot waffle breakfast on Saturday, February 27 from 7 – 10:30 AM in the CPCS gymnasium. Donations will be accepted at the door.  Proceeds will defer expenses for the 8th grade class trip and any excess funds will be given to the CPCS operating fund.

I Hope I Never Have to Deal With That! – Parent Workshop at Highland Christian School:  You may HOPE that you never have to discuss sex, racism, or substance abuse with your child, but sooner or later, your child will face these issues.  Join us for a parent workshop in the Highland Christian School Gymnasium at 7:00 pm on February 10 to learn principles and strategies to help your child navigate the difficult issues they will face in their lifetime.  Dr. Bill Sytsma, pastor of Second Highland CRC will lead our evening workshop. Childcare for children under the age of 11 will be available at Second Highland Christian Reformed Church (next door to the school).  Refreshments will be provided, and there will be resources available for purchase following the workshop.

Sermon Based Small Group Questions – January 23 & 24 Messages

Ice Breaker: Tell your best “ticket” story (or other run-ins with the law!). What traffic law did you violate? Did you talk your way out of it? What were your feelings following the episode? Were you thankful for the law and those who enforce it? What was the approach of the police officer?

Note to the Leader: Before you dive into the questions below. Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message. Did they have questions? Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. Why do you think Leviticus 19 starts with the respecting parents and observing Sabbaths?

2. What significance was there in not wearing clothing of woven of two kinds of material? V. 19 Is there an eternal principle we can take from a command like this?

3. The phrase “love your neighbor” looks like a footnote on not holding a grudge and yet Pastor Kris made it a centerpiece of the chapter. Do you think that is accurate and why? (Matthew 22:34-39)

4. Do you think there is a legitimate link between Leviticus 19:1 and 1 John 4:8? Describe the connection between holiness and love. Give examples of people in our world you would describe as holy.

5. We have an “ancient hunger”. We want to see the power of God revealed. We want to see God Himself break through into the natural world. We want to see splashes of glory in a world that is scarred by suffering and shame. Those who display God’s power to overcome what burdens us most are called “holy.” They are holy because they are the power of God revealed in this world.

As you read this quote from Gary Thomas (Holy Available) what comes to mind? How has God’s power come through you in the past and how will it in the future?

Brickhouse Winter Retreats (WinterXtreme) – 1 Spot Open for Jr High THIS WEEKEND! Jr High Students will be attending the WinterXtreme this Friday (leaving at 4) to go to Timber-lee.  Please pray for safety for all of the 44 students and adults attending this weekend!  1 more spot has opened up.  If you’re interested, please email or call Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com or 322-6400.

Sr highers shouldn’t wait to sign up!  We only have 10 spots left.

You can read more about this fun winter retreat at http://www.timber-lee.com/youth_programs/winterXtreme/index.html

Membership Class Our next membership class will be on Sundays, February 7, 21, & 28 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.  All adults and students 14 and up are welcome to come.  If you’re interested, contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Baptism Our next baptism date will be February 21.  If you are a member of Crossroads and would like to have your child baptized, please contact Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Snow Removal Help Needed! If you are available on Saturday or Sunday before the church services to snow blow (we own a snow blower!) and salt the sidewalks, please email Joan at jbuss@aboutccc.com.

Opportunity to Give to Haiti If you are looking for ways to contribute to the needs in Haiti, you can go to our denomination’s website at www.crwrc.org and make a donation.

Brickhouse SuperBowl Party Sunday, February 7^th all jr and sr high students are invited to watch the BIG game on BIG Screen at Brickhouse! Bring your friends and some of your favorite snacks to share! We’ll supply the soda! Just show up to Brickhouse at regular time (5:15 PM) and hang out until the game is over. There is no cost associated with this event but we do ask that you bring something eatable to share with the rest of us! Painted faces, Sports Jerseys and temporary tattoos (or permanent…whatever) are welcome! Have fun supporting your team! 5:15 — until the game ends!

Prom Alternative The Christian Prom is a black-tie event held every year in the month of April.  This year’s date will be April 23 from 6:00 – Midnight.   It is open to all high school students. It is intended to be a fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing, and fellowship.  This year, it will be at the Halls of St. George.  Cost is $35.  See more information at www.christianpromrocks.com

Languishing is the condition of someone who may be able to function but has lost a sense of hope and meaning. Languishing is not the presence of mental illness; it is the absence of mental and emotional vitality. In ancient lists of deadly sins it was called acedia – weariness of soul and inability to delight in life. We speak of dead marriages and dead-end jobs, and to languish is to feel inner deadness. Languishing is the opposite of flourishing, and it was the fear of Henry David Thoreau that “when I came to die, [I would] discover that I had not lived.”

I read Thoreau’s words and it was as if God was saying, “I came to give you life…live it!” My greatest fear is that I will languish – I don’t even like the sound of the word! I’m an activist, I want to constantly be moving, pushing, pursuing, seeing things change. I even toss and turn all night in my sleep! And yet, too much of my life feels like it’s languishing – there’s a feeling of deadness. Some of that is simply the routine of life, some of it is winter in NW Indiana (L), some of it is laziness, but far too much is that I’ve given up on growth, believing that God has something more for me, as Ortberg says, “the me God wants me to be.” I like that. Deep down I want that.

Here’s what I’m learning: God has a plan for the me he wants me to be, but it will not look like the plan he has for someone else. There is no “one-size-fits-all” process for growth. It includes those things that give me – uniquely – life and vitality, and I’m looking to build them into my life and schedule: solitude, reading, coffee with my wife and friends, laughter, opportunities to coach/encourage/mentor/teach, moments of learning something new, sitting in the sun… Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

In the weeks ahead, I’ll be talking about an assessment to help understand one’s temperament, learning style, signature sin, and season of life. Over time we find that becoming “the me God meant me to be” is too hard or takes too long. When we give up pursuing growth, or really, pursuing God, we languish – we die a slow death! There is a person inside of you and me waiting to come alive. I want that! Because I don’t want to come to the day of my death and “discover I had not lived.” Stay tuned…

SBSG Questions

Ice Breaker:

Describe your favorite meal. What food do you despise?

Take a canned or boxed item and read the ingredients. Feel hungry? J

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

Sailhamer: “It has long been recognized . . . that the order of the purity laws in Leviticus 11 follows that of the creation of animal life in Genesis 1.” Do a little comparison for yourself.

Discuss the concept of clean/unclean. Talk through various ideas of why something might have been deemed unclean: physical health, societal values, ritual regulations, others?

[Note: There is no right answer to this! We don’t know for sure, but it makes for great discussion! J]

Read portions of chapters 11, 12, 13, 14 – what commonalities are there? Do these various dietary, hygiene, cleansing laws still apply? Why or why not? Cf. Matt. 15:11; Acts 10; Rom. 14; Col. 2:16; Heb. 9:10; 13:9

Why are we striving for purity?

Every aspect of daily life was affected by the reality of the presence of God. If that was true for the nation of Israel – give some concrete examples from Leviticus – how about us?

God was “in your face” with Israel – why not us post-Cross believers? Or is He?

What are some practical ways that we maintain purity or are “set apart” in the world? Activities? Associations? What we see, say? How do we make sure that we don’t isolate ourselves from the world?

What is an unclean thing that is keeping you from walking with God as you want?

For the deep thinkers and if you have time:

Think through the evolution of worship by God’s people: tabernacle (Exodus 25), temple (1 Kings 5), believers (1 Cor. 3:16-17; Eph. 2:20; Heb. 3:6; 1 Pet. 2:5). What are the implications of us now being “the temple of God”?

Other prayer concerns are deeper and more personal.  Prayers for sick Grandmothers, prayers for a friend who’s parents are getting divorced, or prayers for dad who is out of work.

I am often thrilled to read the request of students whose request is related to the message I taught that evening.  It is very rewarding to see that they have processed the talk and are ready to ask for God’s help in applying what they have learned.

Each week we receive the cards and pray for that student’s needs and concerns.  However, there are times when we feel called to respond to the prayer cards with more than a prayer.  Sometimes we feel called to minister to our student’s needs with both prayer and action (not that prayer isn’t action… it is!).

One such ministry is Divorce Care for Teens which will begin it’s second season on Tuesday, January 19th.  DC4T meets weekly and is lead by Tiffany Nottingham, Cyndi Schoon and Norm Vugteveen.  There is NO CHARGE for participating in DC4T.  Weekly meetings are on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 8:30 PM.  For more information or to register contact Tiffany Nottingham at 219-322-6400 ext. 303.

Divorce Care for Teens (DC4T)
Beginning Tuesday, Jan 19th
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Contact: Tiffany Nottingham
219-322-6400 ext. 303

Tribe Levi – Sermon Based Small Group

Priest

Ice Breaker Ideas:

• What season of the year is your most favorite and why
• Most memorable thing you did over the holidays.
• Introduce yourself and Tell in two minutes who you are.

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What were your perceptions of Leviticus before this series?

1. One of the key concepts in Leviticus is “Holiness” how would you describe holiness?

1. Think out loud what you might have seen, felt, smelled, heard or tasted in preparation to serve God as a priest? What would have been paramount in your thinking? (Review Chapters 1 & 8 to give you some ideas)

1. Unpack 1 Peter 2:9 and all of its implications.  Identify any parallels (if any) that there are between the preparation, ordination, and roles of the OT priests to our role as priests in God’s Kingdom.

1. Talk through the concept of the “human touch of holiness”.  What came to mind and how can you do it this week? (Recall the story of St. Francis)

Closing: Take some time to ask for prayer requests and pray for the group.

Priest

Ice Breaker Ideas:

• What season of the year is your most favorite and why
• Most memorable thing you did over the holidays.
• Introduce yourself and Tell in two minutes who you are.

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?

1. What were your perceptions of Leviticus before this series?
2. One of the key concepts in Leviticus is “Holiness” how would you describe holiness?
3. Think out loud what you might have seen, felt, smelled, heard or tasted in preparation to serve God as a priest? What would have been paramount in your thinking? (Review Chapters 1 & 8 to give you some ideas)
4. Unpack 1 Peter 2:9 and all of its implications.  Identify any parallels (if any) that there are between the preparation, ordination, and roles of the OT priests to our role as priests in God’s Kingdom.
5. Talk through the concept of the “human touch of holiness”.  What came to mind and how can you do it this week? (Recall the story of St. Francis)

Closing: Take some time to ask for prayer requests and pray for the group.

My daughter just rolls her eyes at me and says, “Whatever, dad.”

She knows I don’t really love cleaning the bathroom.  She sees through my shallow ploy to get her motivated to do her chores.  But, she cleans the bathroom.  That look of accomplishment in her eyes when she displays the sparkling results of her hard work is unmistakable: she loves it!

Maybe you were rolling your eyes a little as I introduced our new series on Leviticus last weekend.  I told you how excited I was about diving into Leviticus.  I’ll admit it is not an easy book.  When it says that a priest’s daughter who turns to prostitution should be burned to death, it’s a little hard to swallow!  At times it seems repetitious about trivial details (how many times do we need to know that the offering should have no physical defects), gross (do we really need the details of cleansing from contagious skin diseases, yuk!) and at other times extremely harsh (fire blazes forth from the Lord’s presence and burns up Aarons sons for disobeying God’s instructions).  In spite of all the difficult aspects of Leviticus I really do love uncovering its riches!

When I think about how hard the Israelites worked to remind themselves of God’s presence in their lives it challenges me to think about how meager my spiritual life looks in comparison.  When I think about the role of the priest in Israel and his responsibility to represent the people to God and God to the people I wonder if I am worthy of that same role as 1 Peter 2:9 says all of us are!

Last night I sat in a meeting with community leaders thinking about Leviticus.  Most of them in the room have probably never read Leviticus.  Many of them are probably not aware of the closeness of God.  As a priest I pondered how I was representing God in that meeting.  Did my attitude, my actions, my words give some indication of God’s presence?  Did I represent those people to God?

If Leviticus tells us anything it is that we must design our lives in such a way that we have reminders of God’s presence and power in everything we do.   As we begin a NEW YEAR, I hope you will take some ideas from Leviticus and find some ways you can set up reminders of God in your everyday life.  Maybe it’s post-it notes with verses, prayer time in the morning, a song every night, reading through the Bible in a year, praying for your co-workers during every meeting or tuning your radio to 89.7 or 90.1.  Only your imagination limits the ways you can connect with God every day!

We have around 100 folks participating in some form of sermon based small group!  You can still get on board.  Even if you are not able to join a group I hope you’ll take the study guides from the website and use them in your personal devotions or family devotions.  Let’s get all  that God has for us from Leviticus! J

Sermon-Based Small Groups:  Sermon-Based small groups will start this weekend!  These short-term (6-8 week) small groups are a great way to meet other Crossroads attenders and dig deeper into the messages heard on Sunday mornings.  To sign up to attend a group, contact Tiffany at tnottingham@aboutccc.com.

DivorceCare:  We will be starting a new session for adults, teens & kids on Tuesday, January 18^th from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.   If you would like to sign up, contact Tiffany at tnottingham@aboutccc.com

Brickhouse Winter Retreats (WinterXtreme) Our Jr Highers will be heading to timber-lee (East Troy, WI) for a fun winter retreat on January 22-24 and our Sr Highers will go on February 12 – 14.  Our jr high retreat is completely booked.  We are hoping to get more spots if they become available.  If your jr higher would like to attend, please let us know and we will put them on a waiting list. Sr highers shouldn’t wait to sign up!  We only have 10 spots left! Information for jr high students attending the retreat will be sent home today!  You can read more about this fun winter retreat at http://www.timber-lee.com/youth_programs/winterXtreme/index.html

Women’s Bible Study is beginning a new study called Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks by Pricilla Shirer on Tuesday, January 12 at 9:15 am. All women are invited to join us. If you would like to order a workbook or want more information, please contact Kathi Poplar at kspoplar979@gmail.com or 219-775-1449 no later than Sunday, January 4. Consider joining us for this 6-week study as we connect and grow with one another.

Crossroads Camping If anyone would like to camp with the church group on Memorial weekend at the Indiana Dunes State Park please make some camping reservations at the Indiana Dunes website.  http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Book for Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights, leaving Monday (May 28,29,30).  We currently have folks on the following campsites: 52,53,65,86,87,88,89,90,122,134

Monday, January 11  6:30p.m.  Highland Christian School invites you to a Preschool and Kindergarten Open House. Come meet our teachers, visit our classrooms and discuss how a Christ centered education would benefit your child.  All are welcome.  For more information please call Jodi Lineburg at (219) 838-0356 x165.

Tribe Levi Series: Kris Vos

January 2/3: Tribe Levi: Sacrifice
Big Idea: OT animal sacrifices help us understand the depth of God’s grace through the atoning sacrifice of Christ.
Thoughts on Sacrifice/Atonement:

• -Ritual is a bridging mechanism that spans a gap between people that could not ordinarily interact.
• -God gives the details for various reasons. (“slit the throat” – less suffering for the animal; kill first then spread the blood – common sense)
• -The goal of the ritual is atonement which is a sweet aroma to God.
• -The hand is laid on the head of the animal to symbolize transferring of guilt to the animal.
• -the sacrificial system was God’s “altar call” to his people.  The brought a tangible sign of their dependence on Him and their desire to be with Him.

Take home:  What does our worship cost us? Celebrate Communion.  Do we desire to connect with God as He requires or do we chafe at his requirements?

January – Tribe Levi
Leviticus is not an easy read.  We are tempted to skip over it.  However, Leviticus contains more direct speech by God than any other book of the Bible!  Its rituals form the foundation of Israel’s worship.  In the pages of Leviticus we also discover a depth and meaning to our own worship rituals that we would not otherwise know.  Both our rituals and the ancient rituals are designed to connect our realm with the heavenly realm—sinful humanity with a holy God.

January 2/3: Tribe Levi: Sacrifice
Big Idea: OT animal sacrifices help us understand the depth of God’s grace through the atoning sacrifice of Christ.
Thoughts on Sacrifice/Atonement:

• -Ritual is a bridging mechanism that spans a gap between people that could not ordinarily interact.
• -God gives the details for various reasons. (“slit the throat” – less suffering for the animal; kill first then spread the blood – common sense)
• -The goal of the ritual is atonement which is a sweet aroma to God.
• -The hand is laid on the head of the animal to symbolize transferring of guilt to the animal.
• -the sacrificial system was God’s “altar call” to his people.  The brought a tangible sign of their dependence on Him and their desire to be with Him.

Take home:  What does our worship cost us? Celebrate Communion.  Do we desire to connect with God as He requires or do we chafe at his requirements?

January 9/10: Tribe Levi: Priests
Big Idea: We are the tribe of Levi – set a part as a nation of priests.  Christ the Messiah (anointed) has set us apart for His service.
Thoughts on Priesthood:

• -Aaron and his sons were touched with blood on the right earlobe, right thumb and right big toe—so they would listen, act and go where God directed!
• -The temple, altar and Aaron were all anointed as unique instrument s in the worship of God.
• -The barrier between this world and the heavenly realm is incredibly thin because of Christ’s work on the Cross.
• -Instead of entering the holy of holies once a year, as priests we are sent to “declare the praise of Him who called you out of darkness!” –I Peter 2:9
• -Hebrews identifies the unique order of priesthood (Melchizidek) that Christ fulfilled.
• -The priestly inheritance was not land, it was the Lord. “they are mine”-God
• -Nadab and Abihu were killed when they failed to follow God’s instructions for holiness.

Take home:  As priests we have the unique gift of entering into God’s presence. We must be careful to follow God’s guide for holiness.

January 16/17: Tribe Levi: Unclean
Big Idea:  We guard against impurity and preserve purity in every detail of our lives.
Thots on Purity:

• -It is difficult to determine why certain animals were chosen and others aren’t.  We do know that God limits the number of animals that we can eat maybe to preserve creation and remember that eating meat is an exception and a privilege.
• -Why was Jesus not defiled when the woman with flow of blood or when he touched lepers?  The flow of purity went one way like the cistern and the dry seed in 11:36.  Christ in us is a source of purity that cannot be defiled by anything.
• -All too often detailed laws like this become twisted into legalism.  In age of “cafeteria style” self-help where we take what we want we have to remember that God’s plan for us is wholistic!
• -We don’t question the Dr. when he tells us do this or die! Why do we do that for God when his intentions for us are even better than the Dr. (who gets paid!).

Take home: Spiritual disciplines are God’s best plan for our spiritual life—how do we let them flow into every part of our day.

January 23/24: Tribe Levi: Holy
Big Idea: Our life goal is to be holy as God is holy.
Thots on Holiness:

• -To grow in holiness means to grow in love and compassion.
• -We work so hard to rid our lives of sin when that is only half way to holiness and not the hardest part nor the most fun!
• -It is not about being a “good person” it is about representing God to the world.
• -Holiness is comprehensive: health, relational, psychological, spiritual.

Take home: Be transformed by the power of God’s love flowing through you!  Opportunities to serve: here in church, in our community, in your neighborhood.

January 30/31 – Tribe Levi: Sabbath
Big Idea: Rest is the closest thing to heaven on earth!
Thots on Sabbath:

• -It expands from a day to weeks, to a year, to Jubilee!
• -Jubilee is the pinnacle of Sabbath – debts repaid, forgiveness, prisoners freed, and a do-over fresh start!
• -Rhythm of life is work and rest.
• -God waits for us in Sabbath!

Take home: Make every effort to enter God’s rest.

Traditions…those little rituals passed down from generation to generation that give character to families and help build a special bond among family members. They create memories that can be talked about and cherished for years.

Traditions don’t have to be elaborate or require a lot of planning. They can be as simple as reading to your child every night in the same comfy chair, having a movie and pizza night once a month, or even just eating dinner as a family and discussing what you are thankful for. Traditions are the glue that keeps a family together. We all have very busy lifestyles, and adding a small tradition here or there can make all the difference to your family.

Shortly before Christmas, I asked my students what some of their favorite family traditions were. Here are a few that really stuck out or that I enjoy myself with my family:

1. Christmas Pajama run: The week before Christmas, we all get into our pajamas and pile into the car and drive around looking at Christmas lights. We search for the house with the brightest lights and vote for the best decorated lawn. We end the run back home with a cup of hot chocolate while we laugh about the goofy things we found.
2. Special Birthday Celebrations: Each year on our children’s birthdays, I fill up balloons the night before and hang them in the doorway to their bedroom. When they wake up in the morning, they find the balloons and then are served breakfast in bed. It is a special way to start their special day
3. Easter egg hunt: A classic in many households around the world. My mom and dad always filled eggs with money or candy and we searched for them on Easter. They still fill and hide the eggs, but now invite the grandkids over for the big hunt!
4. Winter “Snowed-In” Day: Choose a day (Saturday if your kids are in school) and stay inside all day, in your pj’s, watching movies, drinking hot chocolate, just doing “nothing” together as a family.
5. Potluck: This is a great way for extended family members to showcase their culinary talents. If you decide to do this monthly or bi-monthly, consider themes – make one night Mexican, and the next time Thai, followed by Italian. Theme nights can introduce you to a whole new world of cooking. Bring print-outs of the recipe so people can take it home with them.
6. Angel Tree: Each year our family takes a trip to the local department store and finds an “angel tree” with names of children in our community that won’t be able to have a Christmas with their family. We choose an angel, read the list and shop for the perfect gift or gifts for that child. It is a great way for kids to recognize the joy in giving at Christmas.

Family traditions are a great way to bring your family together. Maybe you can’t remember many special traditions that your family shared growing up. That is an even better reason to create these special memories with your family now. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive, start small. Maybe you have no family that you can share these traditions with. Find a neighbor or a friend and do something special with them. It’s never too late to start a new tradition, and generations to come will remember you in a special way and embrace that special bond that a family tradition carries. This New Year’s, don’t make a resolution that will last only a month or two, make a new tradition that will last for years, even generations to come.

Traditions are fun to share. If you have any fun, creative traditions, please share them here. I’d love to add to my list!

It has been great to hear stories of “Christmas Caring” the past few weeks around the office: Unchurched friends and neighbors who have come to our services; tangible expressions of God’s love through giving of food, gifts and visits to those in need; and encouraging calls or cards to those who need a lift.  I hope and pray God puts you in a place where you can observe and participate in the giving and receiving of His love this Christmas!

Christmas Eve Service Join us for our Christmas Eve service on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. We will share communion together and end the night with candlelight.  Children are welcome to attend this service.  We will look at the Christmas Prayer of Simeon found in Luke 2.Sermon-Based Small Groups:  Sermon-Based small groups will launch January 9!  These short-term (4-6 week) small groups are a great way to meet other Crossroads attenders and dig deeper into the messages heard on Sunday mornings.  We will be studying the book of Leviticus in the month of January.  To sign up to attend a group, contact Tiffany at tnottingham@aboutccc.com.

BRICKHOUSE CLOSED DATES:  We will be breaking for the Christmas season.  No brickhouse on December 27^th.  We’ll resume on January 3^rd.

DivorceCare:  We will be starting a new session for adults, teens & kids on Tuesday, January 18^th from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.   If you would like to sign up, contact Tiffany at tnottingham@aboutccc.com

Women’s Bible Study is beginning a new study called Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks by Pricilla Shirer on Tuesday, January 12 at 9:15 am. All women are invited to join us. If you would like to order a workbook or want more information, please contact Kathi Poplar at kspoplar979@gmail.com or 219-775-1449 no later than Sunday, January 4. Consider joining us for this 6-week study as we connect and grow with one another.

Big Idea:  The path to true peace on earth comes through a life dedicated to God’s glory.

• The angels give as a view from heaven.
• The close connection between heaven and earth is revealed in their brief prayer of praise.
• Our desperate search for peace on earth is bound by what we have at our disposal rather than the rich resources of heaven!
• The angels exist to give glory to God…what does a lifelong pursuit of God’s glory look like for us?

Take home:  Let’s learn to live all of life with a view toward heaven.

I have a unique seat to watch all of the seasonal miracles acted out. Often I feel like one of Santa’s elves – getting the joy of being the in-between person who delivers the surprise package to someone else who is caught off guard by generosity. Bags of groceries, gift cards, neatly wrapped Christmas gifts, or a tin of freshly baked cookies, express a love and concern that is at the heart of the Christmas spirit.

I and my family have marvelous memories of being caught off-guard by the spirit of Christmas: The “White Gifts offering” on Christmas Eve in our church in Hillsdale, OK that often went to pay for special treats for our growing family; the gift of sending Carrie and I to Dallas to be able to walk at graduation from Dallas Seminary; even the fun of nightly gifts showing up on our doorstep last Christmas season, as the Hair family delighted our family with their version of “The 12 Days of Christmas.”

As blessed as it has been to receive over the years, I still find the greatest joy in giving to others. Usually it has been out of our own need and not abundance, but God has always blessed. Gift giving doesn’t have to be extravagant: a hand-written note well-thought out becomes a prized possession, or the gift of time – a cup of coffee or egg nog and conversation may cause someone to characterize this Christmas as “the best ever.” My best Christmas memories are of family gatherings, laughter, hand-made ornaments, listening again to the miracle of the Christmas story, and seeing the spirit of Christmas touch young and old alike.

If we can just carry that spirit of Christmas over to every day of the year we will truly exemplify what Christmas and especially the Christ of Christmas is all about. I’m reminded of Max Lucado’s words: “For a few precious hours, he is beheld, Christ the Lord. Those who pass the year without seeing him, suddenly see him. People who have been accustomed to using his name in vain, pause to use it in praise. Eyes, now free of the blinders of self, marvel at his majesty. All of a sudden, he’s everywhere… I want to savor the spirit just a bit more… I can’t help but linger on one fanciful thought: If he can do so much with such timid prayers lamely offered in December, how much more could he do if we thought of him every day?”

I pray you experience the spirit of Christmas this season and all the days following like never before. Merry Christmas!

(A couple of great Christmas reads to stir the spirit: God Came Near, Max Lucado, and In Search of the Real Spirit of Christmas, Dan Schaeffer)

Big Idea: Zechariah’s prayer rejoices in the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises.

• As a priest Zech should have expected something like this!  He knew the prophecies and the promises and yet he is hesitant to believe!
• Zech’s doubt is reminiscent of Abraham and Sarah’s doubt about having Isaac.
• Where in your life are you hesitant to hope?  Do you believe your financial situation can ever be better?  Your marriage? Your health?
• Why are we so hesitant to believe what we know to be true about God and His faithfulness.
• God “shut-up” Zech for 9 mos to contemplate His promises to Israel!

Take home:  Even the smallest thread of hope is powerful when attached to God’s promises.

And although I go each year with “supporting the kids” as my primary motivation, I always find myself caught off guard by God’s love and grace.  This year was no exception.  What’s even funnier about being caught off guard by God is that I knew what was coming because I helped co-write the play “Nicholas and the Nativity” with my wife Tami Hair.

Nicholas and the Nativity was born out of a desire to “keep it simple” this year.  In other years, the children’s Christmas program included a dozen half working wireless mics and lead characters standing at center stage  slapping their forheads trying to remember their complicated lines. This year we hoped to stay away from complicated scripts and stage pieces.  So we decided to write a children’s Christmas musical play.  Our moto was “keep it simple” and our challenge was making it fun as well as thought provoking.

So after a few days my wife Tami shared her thoughts, “What if one side of the stage is a scene with a modern family, while the other side of the stage is the manger?”  She later added “The children’s chior could stand in the middle and we could go back and forth somehow having the manger scene parallel what the family is reading from the bible and discussing.”  We set the idea aside while we fixed dinner and finished helping the kids with homework and then after tucking our youngest two in bed, we began collecting our best ideas.  What finally emerged was a rough draft script about a little boy named Nicholas (Nick) who discovers the nativity under his Christmas tree.  Nicholas struggles to see how his modern Christmas experiences fit into the manger scene.  Nick’s father and mother try to explain but quickly realize they would do well to share the story straight from the Bible.  In the end, Nicholas “puts all the pieces together” and embraces the true and deeper meaning of Christmas.  My wife and I had goose bumps as we wrote out the idea that Nick would cross over from his side of the stage (family room scene) to the other side of the stage (manger scene) and kneel at the manger/throne.  We hoped that many in the audience would do the same in their hearts.

Thank you to eveyone who helped this children’s musical-play come to life.  I hope you all have a Merry Christmas.  I hope you will all find yourselves caught off guard by God’s amazing grace and love this Christmas.

Grace and Peace,

Todd E. Hair

Mary’s prayer reflects the “great reversal” of the kingdom: the humble being exalted.

• Mary believes though she is an unlikely candidate.
• She is young and a woman yet in short order she accepts whatever God has for her.
• “Who am I” is her humble reflection
• Not so much what Mary does as what is done to her to bring salvation

Take home:  Your so-called small life becomes huge when attached to God.

We want to welcome you to our upcoming Christmas series entitled “Christmas Prayer”  Here is a look into weekly sermon topics and the direction we are taking our series.  Stay tuned on the following Monday of each sermon for the audio download, just in case you missed it.

December 5&6 – Prayer of Mary (Luke 1:46ff) Hope for the Humble

Big Idea:  Mary’s prayer reflects the “great reversal” of the kingdom: the humble being exalted.

• Mary believes though she is an unlikely candidate.
• She is young and a woman yet in short order she accepts whatever God has for her.
• “Who am I” is her humble reflection
• Not so much what Mary does as what is done to her to bring salvation

Take home:  Your so-called small life becomes huge when attached to God.

December 12 & 13 – Prayer of Zechariah (Luke 1:67ff) Hesitant Hope

Big Idea: Zechariah’s prayer rejoices in the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises.

• As a priest Zech should have expected something like this!  He knew the prophecies and the promises and yet he is hesitant to believe!
• Zech’s doubt is reminiscent of Abraham and Sarah’s doubt about having Isaac.
• Where in your life are you hesitant to hope?  Do you believe your financial situation can ever be better?  Your marriage? Your health?
• Why are we so hesitant to believe what we know to be true about God and His faithfulness.
• God “shut-up” Zech for 9 mos to contemplate His promises to Israel!

Take home:  Even the smallest thread of hope is powerful when attached to God’s promises.

December 19 & 20 – Prayer of the Angels (Luke 2:14) Heaven’s Hope

Big Idea:  The path to true peace on earth comes through a life dedicated to God’s glory.

• The angels give as a view from heaven.
• The close connection between heaven and earth is revealed in their brief prayer of praise.
• Our desperate search for peace on earth is bound by what we have at our disposal rather than the rich resources of heaven!
• The angels exist to give glory to God…what does a lifelong pursuit of God’s glory look like for us?

Take home:  Let’s learn to live all of life with a view toward heaven.

December 24 – Prayer of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32) Holding on to Hope – Christmas Eve

Big Idea: Simeon’s prayer reveals a lifetime of patient expectation of God’s salvation.

• Simeon (and Anna) never let go of the belief that the Messiah is coming.  Though so many in Israel had twisted the promises to mean something they never meant, these two faithful people waited patiently in the wings for the real thing.
• Both Simeon and Anna are on the fringe.  While everyone one else seemed to miss the coming of Christ these to represent the faithful remnant in Israel.
• Though minor players in the grand scheme of salvation history they herald the coming of Christ in a way that none of the religious leaders did.
• Reminiscent of Hannah’s prayer and patient waiting for a son!
• Simeon holds hope in his hands and his life is complete.

Take Home:  How much of the hope God promises is enough for you?

There are several obvious benefits of this type of format. First, there is a church wide focus on a particular topic or passage of Scripture for the week. In most church settings, one topic/passage is discussed in the weekend message, another in the Tuesday morning Bible study or weekly small group, another in children’s and youth gatherings. With one singular topic being discussed in multiple venues and in different ways, we can move beyond mere exposure to actual knowledge. Here’s a test: What was the topic of last weekend’s message? The message a month ago? It’s gone before we can ever truly apply it.

Another plus is that each group still maintains its own flavor or personality that makes it unique and impacting. People are more attentive during the weekend services, because they know they will be discussing this later in the week. There is more note-taking to have as a reference for further discussion. The neat thing in this format is that anyone can discuss what they heard – everyone has an opinion – no matter where they may be in terms of spiritual maturity. The study is not a rehashing of the weekend message, but rather takes biblical passages that are either complimentary or parallel to the main text but not covered. It allows the hearers, to take the discussion deeper than what can be covered in a large group. In other words, it takes the Word of God and plants it in our hearts and lives better than any thirty minute message could ever do.

Are you ready to jump in and see how this works? I’m pleased to say that over 50 of you said YES just last weekend. You can continue to sign-up at the Resource Desk the next couple of weekends. These groups will kick off after the weekend services of January 9-10.

If you have signed up, or are interested in being a leader/facilitator or host, we will be having a meeting on Tuesday, December 15th at 7PM at the church. We’ll answer any questions you might have or contact me at dbrown@aboutccc.com.

I have been meeting with the pastors who participate in the ministerial for about 14 years.  I have seen our group grow and change over the years.  We are committed to building relationships with each other as pastors and finding ways we can work together in our community.

The friendships I share with the pastors in our area is probably the greatest benefit I have experienced.  We also work hard to handle weddings and pre-marital counseling in ways that will be consistent for couples just looking for a quick and easy church to get married in.  We find ways to care for the poor in our community.  We also invite speakers to our monthly luncheons to share about their work in the community.

The Thanksgiving service is a culmination of the friendship and service we share in this community.  I thank God for Christian leaders whose hearts are open to him.  I also thank God for a great Thanksgiving service!  There is still lots of pie in the refrigerator that the staff will be eating.  That’s always a nice perk!

The evening began sitting around tables getting to know each other better and enjoying a great meal.  We learned that some of us have some pretty unique nicknames “Snooky” & “The Cleaner” to name  few.  Laughter and chatting could be heard throughout the room.

Dennis Olthof and Jeff Otto walked us briefly through the budget and we had overwhelming concensus (read all but 1) to affirm the budget for 2010.  Owning this together means we committ to trust God together and give as God directs us!

Pastor Drew walked us through the highlights of 2009.  We will have the video review of 2009 posted on the site very soon.

I concluded the evening with a vision for 2010.  Our Long Range Planning Team has been hard at work assessing our strengths and challenges.  We are beginning to formulate some initial plans for next 5 years.  The graphic above was the opening slide that forms the foundation of our Long Range Plans.  Everything flows out of our mission-vision-values!

The best part of the class for Pastor Drew and I is listening to the testimonies.  This class did a great job of sharing some of their pain from the past and then acknowledging God’s grace and love in the midst of that pain.

We plan to introduce the class early in December.  As you have opportunity welcome these folks!  We’ll try to get a pic of the other half of the class for you.

“Nicholas and the Nativity”
JAM Children’s Christmas Musical
December 6th
3:00 PM

In the CCC Auditorium

Thank you to all of the children who took the time to try out for special parts in this year’s children’s Christmas musical-play.  We are excited about the impact you are sure to have on many hearts as you combine all of your gifts and talents to perform together.

Posted below are the selections for parts in the play.  You will also find more information about practices and our December 6th performance!

Nick: Andrew Ericks

Joseph: Tom Ericks

Mary: Jaylin Hair

Readers:

Reader 1: Collette Bouwer

Reader 2: Evalin Hair

Reader 3: Justin BeBoer

Reader 4: Savannah Kitchens

Reader 5: Megan Kirby

Reader 6: Jessica DeBoer

Reader 7: Alex Eenigenburg

Reader 8 : Kade Bouwer

Reader 9: Matthew Eagen

Dancers:

Ashley Smith

Zeta Johnson

Savannah Kitchens

Chloe Kaminski

Maddie Nohos

Angel and solo:

Sarah Mapes:  Sings Joy to the world 2^nd verse

Solos:

Erin Rockhill: Sings the first and the last solos in Call His name Jesus

Maddie Nohos:  Sings the 2^nd solo in Call His name Jesus

Kyle Nohos: Sings 2^nd and 3^rd Verse of  Little Drummer Boy

Madison Young: Sings all solo parts in When Love Came Down

Wisemam:

Jason Schutt

Grant Buikema

Eric Blankenship

(All boys will sing as a group some parts of the song We Three Kings)

Sheperd:

Ben Meter

Evan Holland

Brandon Schutt

Michael Zajac

(All boys will sing as a group a SMALL solo in the song Who is this Child)

Our First Practice is Saturday November 14th from 5:30 – 6:45 (during the Saturday evening service).  All of the above parts should attend!

Special Note: the December 4th Practice has been changed to Thursday, December 3rd from 6:00-7:30 pm
All of the parts above need to attend this practice!

]]> http://www.aboutccc.com/nicholas-and-the-nativity-a-ccc-childrens-musical-play/feed/ 0 http://www.aboutccc.com/we/ http://www.aboutccc.com/we/#comments Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:44:39 +0000 tnottingham http://aboutccc.com/?p=532 Called Out- Kris Vos

Over 350 volunteers were mobilized on November 1.  If you were part of the team that served:  St. Jude, Lake Area Regional Recovery of Indiana (LARRI – Those recovering from the floods!), Hearts in Motion, etc. Resale Shop, Dyer Nursing Home, and families in need in our community then tell us how it went.

The coloquium doctum or doctrinal conversation lasted about 45 minutes and covered a variety of topics including: call to ministry, biblical knowledge, doctrinal knowledge and practical theology.  Pastor Drew did an outstanding job!  As a member of Classis for over 15 years I would say it is one of the best I have ever seen!

Todd Hair and Elder Dennis Olthof were present for Drew’s examination.  Liz Rudenga and Larry Boer also stopped in to see Drew on the hot seat since they both work at Trinity College where classis was held.

Thanks for those who prayed for Drew as he prepared for this and thanks to Classis Illiana for their unanimous support for Drew’s ordination in the CRC and the cordial welcome he has recieved since beginning his ministry here at Crossroads!

Icebreaker: What was your favorite scene in the movie City Slickers? If you haven’t seen it, what’s you favorite men’s movie? Why? How are the men portrayed?

1. What insight, principle, or observation from the weekend’s message did you find the most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Who comes to mind or defined the concept of a “man” for you growing up? How did these men define it? How did you come to define what a man is?

3. What is the problem with defining manhood by the opinions of modern experts? In one sentence how would these experts define manhood? What’s the advantage of defining manhood by biblical standards?
4. Drew talked about Four Faces of Manhood in the message. Think of additional Bible verses or characters that exemplify each: King, Warrior, Lover, Friend. Which of these faces characterizes you best as a man, or the men in your life? Why did you answer that way? Which “face” do you, or the men in your life struggle with the most? Why?
5. Review the ugly caricatures for each of the faces: King, Warrior, Lover, Friend. Which do you see the most often? Ever worn one of those faces? Are there biblical examples of these extremes? How did this happen and what was the outcome?
6. Jesus is the perfect expression of manhood. Give examples of His King face, Warrior face, Lover face, and Friend face. (Hints: Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 9:51; Luke 19:41; John 11:35-36; John 13:23; John 15:15)

Ice Breaker Question: Last week Pastor Kris mentioned three “T’s” that kids need from their parents. Time, Talk, and Touch. What was your experience with those three needs when you were growing up?

Which “T” is easiest for you to give to your children?
Which “T” is most difficult to give to your children?

Perhaps you have heard the phrase “more is caught than taught”. The truth is that both modeling and teaching are important! Let’s talk about both!

The character modeled in our lives continues to be one of the most powerful ways to influence our children (or our parents). Write down each of the character qualities God’s Spirit wants to reveal in your life found in Galatians 5:22-23. After each one, write down how you might put that quality into action in your family setting. Is there one you’re really good at? Is there one you might need to work on more than the others?

Character is very important because it gives credibility to what we want to teach. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 clearly shows that God expects the home environment and a child’s relationship with his or her parents to be the primary context for discipleship and spiritual growth.

Think back to your childhood. Was your home and relationship with your parents the primary environment for your discipleship and spiritual growth?

How is Deuteronomy 6:6-9 being experienced in your home currently?

This week Pastor Todd introduced Daddy Doughnuts & Mommy Muffins as one simple idea to help parents move toward growing in the way of home discipleship. Who in our group will be using this tool? What other ideas or tools do you know of that would be helpful to parents who are looking for ways to live out Deut. 6:6-9.
Below is a sampling of the many verses the Bible gives as guidelines for “biblical family values.” Write out what value each passage reveals. Which would your family say is definitely part of your household?

Psalm 78:1-8
Proverbs 23:13-14
Proverbs 24:26
Matthew 19:13-15
Hebrews 12:8, 11
James 1:19
1 Peter 4:8-9
Learning to Think Orange! Red + Yellow = Orange
Red (the warm heart of home)
Combined with yellow (The Church Programming)
You get Orange!

Our goal should be to synchronize our influence and efforts to have maximum impact on our children’s lives. How are you doing in the realm of Orange?

Special note to those who aren’t parents or don’t have children in the home: Though the questions below are focused mostly on parenting issues, many of the answers can also apply to other significant relationships in your life or if you hope to be a parent in the future. There may also be insights to glean by applying the principles to how your parents raised you.

Icebreaker: What is your favorite memory of a family outing/vacation when you were a child? Why was it so memorable? Survey the group was it more often the things that went wrong or the things that went well that are most memorable?

1. Pastor Kris talked about how part of Paul’s concern in Ephesians 5 & 6 was that Christianity was often viewed as a subversive/troublesome movement by the empire. Christianity gave new freedom and rights to those who had none (women, children and slaves). He wants to make sure that marriages, parents and even slaves in that context understand the importance of order within the household. How does that shape your understanding of this passage? What kind of witness does your household have in your neighborhood?

2. Ephesians 6 tells fathers (parents) not to exasperate or make your children angry. What kinds of things that your parents did made you angry? What do you do to your child that makes him/her angry? Are there times when it’s okay for your children to be angry with you? How can you avoid exasperating your children?
3. A key piece in keeping a healthy balance of love and control is identifying and keeping in mind the unique God-given gifts and abilities your children have been given. Genesis 48 & 49 records Jacob’s unique blessing for each of his sons. How do you affirm the unique gifts of your children and paint a picture of their future?

• Take a moment and write down 2-3 abilities or positive character qualities of your children (if you have no children think of a couple of close friends).

• How do you communicate what you wrote above to your children? Think of specific examples in the recent past. Is it time to remind them how you specifically appreciate them?
4. Teaching children to love and follow Jesus is a foundational role God gives parents (1 Timothy 5:8; Proverbs 22:6). To do this it is important to remember that most instruction is “caught, not taught” – in other words our life needs to back up what we say. How does John 13:34 reinforce this idea?

How does your daily life reflect what you hope your children will catch regarding what it means to know, love and follow Jesus in the following areas?

…serving and putting others first
… forgiving others and owning up to your mistakes
… loving your enemies
… speaking the truth in others
… time with God
5. John Eldredge wrote in his booklet, “You Have What it Takes,” that a son needs to know ‘he has what it takes’ and a daughter needs to know that ‘she’s worth pursuing.’ How does your relationship with your son or daughter communicate this on an ongoing basis (even if they are an adult)?
6. How has your heavenly Father modeled the kind of parent you need to be to your children?

Ice Breaker (if needed): When was the last time you spent an extended period of time by yourself? What do you do when you are alone? Do you enjoy spending time alone or does it frighten you?

1. 1 Corinthians 7:6-7 (NLT) This is only my suggestion. It’s not meant to be an absolute rule. 7 I wish everyone could get along without marrying, just as I do. But we are not all the same. God gives some the gift of marriage, and to others he gives the gift of singleness.

a. Corinthians 7 says that marriage is a gift and singleness is a gift. What are some of the blessings of both?
b. Do these two groups need each other? How can married people benefit relationships with singles and vice versa? What keeps these two groups apart?

2. What are some of the unique challenges and myths that Pastor Kris talked about in the single life? Can you think of any others? How does this make marrieds feel toward singles? Singles toward marrieds?

3. Matthew 22:29-30 (NLT) Jesus replied, “Your problem is that you don’t know the Scriptures, and you don’t know the power of God. 30 For when the dead rise, they won’t be married. They will be like the angels in heaven.
a. How do you feel about the fact that Scripture indicates we will all be single someday?
b. Imagine together and discuss what our relationships will be like in the new heaven and the new earth.

4. “Settle yourself in solitude and you will come upon Him in yourself.” St. Teresa of Avila “Where shall the world be found, where will the word resound? Not here, there is not enough silence.” T.S. Elliot
a. What thoughts do these quotes bring to mind?
b. Richard Foster identifies solitude as a spiritual discipline. Is it a discipline you practice in your spiritual life?
c. Scripture indicates Jesus often spent time in solitude:
i. Matthew 4:1-11
ii. Luke 6:12 (prior to choosing the 12)
iii. Matthew 14:13
iv. Matthew 14:23
v. Mark 6:31 (Jesus instructs His disciples)
vi. Luke 5:16
vii. Others?

5. We all have a deep desire to know another and to be known by another person.
a. If this is true it poses a unique challenge for the single person.
b. Sometimes our “gifts” come with dark sides. How might the single people in our community be able to overcome the pitfall of loneliness while still growing in the gift of their singleness?

6. As a single person, what kind of feedback would you give on the message? What needed said that wasn’t? As a married person, how sensitive are you toward singles? Any other insights gained from your perspective?

Ice Breaker: Talk about the last movie you saw. What were your expectations going in? Were your expectations met or even exceeded or maybe they were let down. If you saw it with someone how would they answer these questions? (Don’t let the movie lovers in your midst take over at this point! A discussion of the movie “Fireproof” would be another great starting point.)

1. If you are married what were some of your expectations going into marriage? Have they changed over time? If you are single what are your expectations of friendships, church, other? Have they changed over time? What shaped your expectations?

2. This week we looked at the importance of gaining understanding when your relationship with your spouse or other significant people seems to hit an impasse. What principles or guidelines do the following verses give you to gain understanding of the other person’s point of view?

Proverbs 1:5

Proverbs 2:11

Proverbs 11:12

Proverbs 20:5

Romans 12:19

I Corinthians 10:24

James 1:19

Which of the above verses is most important for you to put into practice when the conflict begins?

3. Keeping in mind the value and worth of the other person in the midst of conflict is key in being able to work toward resolve. Unfortunately, conflict, failed expectations and miscommunication can cloud our view of seeing any positive qualities in the other person and can send us into a downward spiral. How do the following verses help us keep in mind the other person’s positive qualities?

Genesis 1:27

Ephesians 2:10

Philippians 1:6

Philippians 2:3-5

Write down 3-5 other positive character qualities of your spouse or close friend that are important to remember when the conflict comes.

4. Identifying and communicating expectations of each other are oftentimes the missing link to resolving our differences. Get another piece of paper and write down your expectations in the following categories. Are there any that seem to be a source of conflict with your spouse or friend that you need to talk about? Are there any expectations you need to ask them about?

Work Ministry Social Life
Parenting Recreation Finances
Spiritual Growth Education Other

5. “People do not make us miserable, we choose to be miserable.” Do you think this statement is true? Why or why not?

6. Ephesians 5:15-20 says that Christ followers must “live carefully” and “be filled with the Spirit”. Is that tied to the discussion regarding mutual submission or is it a separate thought? Explain.

7. The opening verses of Ephesians 5 indicate there is a clear difference between a Christ-follower’s behavior and an unbeliever’s behavior. How might this help us understand the way we follow Christ in our marriages?

Ice-Breaker: What vacation or big trip (either as a child or an adult) did you enjoy the most?

1. This weekend we learned that a marriage is just like any other relationship in that it thrives or dies according to how we treat each other. Here are some verses that speak to how we treat one another. If married, jot down how they apply specifically to your marriage. If single, jot down how they apply to the relationships that are most important to you. (Note: each passage has multiple principles.)

John 13:1-17

Romans 12:9-21

Colossians 3:12-16

1 Peter 3:8-9

1 Peter 4:8-11

2. Think through the Paradox Principle. What other relational applications can you think of? Look again at Luke 9:23-24. What is Jesus asking us to do as he talks about 1) “deny self,” 2) “take up cross daily,” 3) “Follow me,” 4) “whoever loses his life…”

3. What stereotypes do you have about the word submission? Where did these come from? How do you understand the term now? How would you define it for someone who didn’t hear this message?

4. Part of submitting to each other means putting others’ needs in front of our own. Read Mark 14:1-11, Acts 9:36-43, and Luke 10:30-37. Why do you think these people were willing to put aside some of their own wants or needs and help others?

What did it cost them to give?

What might it cost you to follow their example?

5. Interact a bit over the Three Models of Marriage: The Top down Traditional, The 50-50 Identical Marriage, The Side-By-Side Biblical. Did you agree with Drew’s assessment of each? Why or why not? Are there any strengths to the first two? Any weaknesses in the last one?

6. If you are married, engaged or dating, take a minute to really think about your significant other and write down at least five strengths, gifts, or abilities that they possess. If you are single, do the same thing for a family member or friend that you care about.

7. Now read Hebrews 10:24-25. Think about each strength or gift listed above and jot down how you can encourage them or “spur them on” to develop or build upon a few of their strengths. Be as specific as possible.

Questions for Sermon-Based Pilot Groups
Divine Design for Women
Message from May 9-10, 2009

Ice Breaker (if needed): What section of the newspaper do you read first – comics, sports, world news, local news, editorial, business, or what is a newspaper? Why? Is there a pattern among men versus women?

1. Think of a woman you admire. What is/was it about her that causes you to feel this way? Is it in any way related to the fact that she is a woman?

a. For women: What are some of the words you would use to describe yourself? Are you a typical woman (in comparison to other women in your life) or not?
b. For men: What words would you use to describe the women in your life (wife, daughters, etc. – this is an opportunity to score some “brownie points”)? Are these women typical of other women you know?

2. In Genesis 1:27, we are told that God created man and woman in his image. What implications does that hold for us today?
a. Do you agree with Pastor Kris’s assessment of the image of God in women? Why or why not?
b. Pastor Kris mentioned beauty and creative power as two ways women reflect the image of God can you think of others?

3. When God created “man” he did so in his own image – male and female. Explore this concept of being created in the “image of God.” What does that mean? Not mean? What was the impact of the curse on this image? On our relationship with God? With each other? With our maleness/femaleness?

4. What role did the following women play: Sarah (Genesis 12-23; Galatians 4), Deborah (Judges 4-5), Rahab (Joshua 2), Esther (Book of Esther), Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11; 1 Kings 1), Elizabeth (Luke 1), Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:1-3; Matthew 27; John 20), Priscilla (Acts 18), Lydia (Acts 16)? How did these women reflect the image of God? Can we compile a “typical woman” outline from these individuals? Why or why not?

5. “Women are far more relational than men.” Do you agree with that statement or not? Does that teach us anything about God? Check out the following passages and discuss their application: Genesis 24:67; Isaiah 12:1; 49:13; 51:12; Jeremiah 8:18; Matthew 9:36; 15:32; 2 Corinthians 1:3; James 5:11

6. In Pastor Kris’s message he said that “Satan works overtime to attack women.” Think through historical events and point out a few things in the last 100 years that seem to verify Satan’s targeting of women? In more recent history? Does this seem to be changing worldwide? Why or why not? Ephesians 6:12 & Ezekiel 28

7. As a woman reading Proverbs 31:10-31, how do you feel – frustrated, overwhelmed, mad, or content? What do you think has changed since Solomon’s time? What hasn’t changed? Name 3-4 eternal principles for women that we can glean from this passage.

8. What events or people in your life have helped you discover your unique role in God’s kingdom? Tell us about that.

Sermon-based groups are based on the familiar lecture-lab model seen in most educational models. There is a large group lecture – in our case the weekend message – followed up by a smaller class for grading homework, answering questions, discussing the substance of the lecture – a lab. Imagine the weekend message as a lecture on Christian living, and the small group as a lab where you get to roll up your sleeves and discuss how the weekend’s message works out in real life.

There are several obvious benefits of this type of format. First, there is a church wide focus on a particular topic or passage of Scripture for the week. In most church settings, one topic/passage is discussed in the weekend message, another in the Tuesday morning Bible study or weekly small group, another in children’s and youth gatherings. With one singular topic being discussed in multiple venues and in different ways, we can move beyond mere exposure to actual knowledge. Here’s a test: What was the topic of last weekend’s message? The message a month ago? It’s gone before we can ever truly apply it.

Another plus is that each group still maintains its own flavor or personality that makes it unique and impacting. People are more attentive during the weekend services, because they know they will be discussing this later in the week. There is more note-taking to have as a reference for further discussion. The neat thing in this format is that anyone can discuss what they heard – everyone has an opinion – no matter where they may be in terms of spiritual maturity. The study is not a rehashing of the weekend message, but rather takes biblical passages that are either complimentary or parallel to the main text but not covered. It allows the hearers, to take the discussion deeper than what can be covered in a large group. In other words, it takes the Word of God and plants it in our hearts and lives better than any twenty minute message could ever do.

Are you ready to jump in and see how this works? Join the Schoons (Jim and Joan) and Moes (Mark and Laura) beginning Sunday, May 10^th at 6 PM at 5343 W. 83^rd Place in Crown Point.

Check out Kris’ new Vision Video for March.

The following is a list of questions that were submitted that weekend but Pastor Drew and I did not get to them during the time we had.

#1. What is the unpardonable sin?

This question comes from Jesus’s statement in Mark 3:29 that whoever “blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven, he is guilty of an eternal sin”(NIV). As always, we need to read the passage in its context. Jesus is saying this to the religious leaders who have just accused him of being possessed by Satan. This is a serious accusation to bring against anyone let alone the Son of God! It is going to have serious consequences. Jesus wants to make it perfectly clear to the religious leaders that their rejection of Him has eternal consequences. He knows that the Holy Spirit is the one who works in our hearts to help us believe in Him. He also knew that in order to make such an accusation they were rejecting the Holy Spirit’s work in their hearts. To push away the Holy Spirit results in unforgiveness and eternal punishment. For those of you out there who are worried if you have committed the unpardonable sin…if you’re concerned that you have it naturally follows that you have not! If you’re heart is soft and open to the work of the Spirit you don’t have to worry. So take heart, repent and follow Him! Check out Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of Mark 3:28-30 in The Message—it’s great!

#2. What is an A-millennialist?

Short answer: Me!

Long answer: There are 3 main perspectives on the end times. They are often referred to as Pre-Millenialist (ala the popular books series Left Behind), Post-Millenialist and the A-Millenialist view. The Pre- generally believe that the millennial (1,000) year reign of Christ is still coming in the future. We must endure the suffering of this world until Christ comes and renews all things. The Post millenialist believe that the church must work to bring the millennial reign of Christ. The work that we do socially, politically (ala some in the religious right) and spiritually will institute the reign of Christ on earth. Both sides have their pros and cons. The Post folks are motivated to work very hard to acknowledge Christ as Lord in every area of life, however, in my estimation they take too much responsibility into their own hands. The Pre folks are motivated by the promise of eternity that is too come, but they sometimes take an approach to the end times that tries to “scare the hell out of people”. The Pre folks can also take an approach that “lives for the bell”, in other words, just hold and endure this life until it’s over rather than work hard to change this world. The A-view, in my humble opinion, balances the best of both! It can be summarized best with the two words: “already & not-yet” (okay that’s a hyphenated word so could be 3 words). The A view says that we are already experiencing the millennial (not a literal 1,000 years) reign of Christ. We already have a taste of what it is like to be in God’s presence because of the Easter and Pentecost! But we are not-yet fully there. So we wait and work to help the world we live in experience a taste of the new heaven and new earth here and now. My best resource for more insight on these views comes from The Bible and the Future by Anthony Hoekema. The Christian Reformed Church does not have an official millennial view because we acknowledge that there is a lot we do not know about the end times.

3. What sets Christianity apart from other religions?

One word: Grace.

4. Why are there so many different interpretations of the Bible, and how do we know which one of them is right? And, why when all these interpreters all claim to be Christian, why do they all differ so much?

I would take issue with the premise of this question. I do not think there are many interpretations of the central message of the Bible. There are many different interpretations of the Bible when it comes to peripheral issues. Things like whether we should drink alcohol, what is Sabbath and how should it be observed, when is Christ’s return, how should we baptize, the list is long! However, when it comes to what Scripture communicates about how we have a relationship with the living God there is an amazing unity! What the church believes about Jesus Christ and his death and resurrection is true across denominational lines. Now, this certainly breaks down when you browse the books at Borders and see all those who question the truth of Scripture. These folks fall outside the boundaries of the church as I understand it and that’s a whole other issue. Being a “Christian” is synonymous in some ways with being American and it doesn’t mean someone looks to the Bible as God’s Word to us.

I think the best answer to your question comes in the book The Blue Parakeet. I would encourage you to get it and read it if you really want a thorough answer to this question.

5. How old is the earth?

I would appeal to my friend and former elder at Crossroads Cal Scott on this one. I’ll e-mail him and get back to you. My short answer would be that the Bible does not say how old the earth is. It gives us some clues but not scientific answers to that question.

6. How long was Jesus here on earth? How old was He when He died?

Eternity & 33 years. He was approximately 33 when he died on the Cross and approximately 33 when He rose again!

7. Why don’t the window shades go up during the closing song with consistency?

Excellent question! I too love it when the sun shines in at just the right moment in a rousing song of praise and commitment to God. Part of the reason is planning. It doesn’t always work with every song on every weekend (don’t forget our Saturday night folks who would only see a few lonely stars J). Another reason is we simply forget to plan it and/or the tech guys forget to execute the plan. We’ll try to do better! I would encourage you to consider joining the tech team or the creative team and be a part of the solution.

I had to reprint Brian B.’s comments from the Crossroads Facebook site:

Hi.

So this year I have made a commitment to read the Bible in its entirety. You know, “rolling up my sleeves and getting into the word”.
So I download a day-by-day guide as to how to read the Bible in a year and it tells me what verses to read on a daily basis (about 30 minutes of reading a day).
Anyway, I wanted to let you know (and everyone else for that matter) that by simply opening the Bible and digging in I can already see and feel the differences in my life, my marriage, and every other detail of my life.

I can’t explain it! I just feel constantly blessed and filled! I encourage everyone to do the same. I am happy the church is challenging to get serious about the word.

-Brian B.

Check out the newest vision video. I stepped out of member’s class Wednesday night and wanted to share the excitement with you. We had an amazing number of new members who shared a part of their spiritual journey. I was amazed at the number who were not going to church prior to God bringing them to Crossroads. God is at work!
Pastor Kris

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

You Can’t Sing What You Can’t Hear

I recently read a fascinating story about a musical trainer who worked with Opera singers who could not hit certain notes within an Octave, even though the notes fell within their vocal range. It was a mystery. The trainer did extensive testing on their vocal chords, but he couldn’t find any reason why they couldn’t hit those notes. On a whim, he tested their hearing. And what he discovered is that these Opera singers could not sing a note they could not hear. The problem wasn’t singing. The problem was hearing.

Made me think of that phrase that is repeated throughout the New Testament: he who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says. I think many of us are trapped in negative cycles or sinful habits or destructive addictions because we haven’t heard the loving voice of our Heavenly Father say, “This is my child in whom I am well pleased.”

When you start to hear the voice of God–His loving voice, His graceful voice, His assuring voice, His powerful voice–you begin to sing what you’re heard. By the way, this is why it’s so important to read the Word. When you open the Bible God opens His mouth.

For what it’s worth, I’d rather have people hear one word from the Lord than a thousand sermons!

posted by Mark Batterson

“Speak, O Lord”
Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Copyright © 2005 Thankyou Music

Speak, O Lord, as we come to You
To receive the food of Your Holy Word.
Take Your truth, plant it deep in us;
Shape and fashion us in Your likeness,
That the light of Christ might be seen today
In our acts of love and our deeds of faith.
Speak, O Lord, and fulfill in us
All Your purposes for Your glory.

Teach us, Lord, full obedience,
Holy reverence, true humility;
Test our thoughts and our attitudes
In the radiance of Your purity.
Cause our faith to rise; cause our eyes to see
Your majestic love and authority.
Words of pow’r that can never fail-
Let their truth prevail over unbelief.

Speak, O Lord, and renew our minds;
Help us grasp the heights of Your plans for us-
Truths unchanged from the dawn of time
That will echo down through eternity.
And by grace we’ll stand on Your promises,
And by faith we’ll walk as You walk with us.
Speak, O Lord, till Your church is built
And the earth is filled with Your glory.

Vision Video

Focusing on God:

“I had forgotten that I fasted that last 2 Tuesdays until you mentioned it on Saturday night.  I will tell you that it was quite an awesome experience – when I really thought it wouldn’t be that significant at all.  You see – with the work that I do – I have many days that I don’t even think about eating until I am at the point where I am completely starving and light-headed.  And unfortunately – coffee makes up for most of my diet 9-5, Monday-Friday.

Anyway – here is my experience.   There was one thing that I learned that I was able to do – all day long – and that was to “focus”.  As I said, eating isn’t a huge part of my day and doesn’t take up a lot of my time, however, taking the time that I may have to have a snack and focusing on the Lord’s prayer verses – even for just a few minutes at a time – changed not only my entire day and how I managed it – but how my heart felt the entire day.

…To switch my focus from the destruction I see daily to focusing on the Lord and what is has promised for his people was quite an experience  My attitude was entirely different and I was able to focus on the future, the Good and what is promised to us as Christians.  I also spent some of this time praying for all of those unfortunate areas of devastation and for the families that live there.  What a brand new day for me!

All in all – it is now something that I will now do every Tuesday.”

Fire of Passion:

“…As I got down to vs. 17 [of John 2] I had that ’sense’, you know? This is it! The disciples had this flashback of the prophecy from Ps. 69:9 where it is quoted, “Passion from God’s house will consume me.” I knew how to pray for us at that point. God wanted me to pray for passion, for zeal, for jealousy for Him and for His Presence. Maybe I’ve been reading about monks too much, but I believe that God is going to give our people more passion to do His work. I believe that He is going to do some revealing of our people’s ‘holy discontent’ so that there are more little flames of passion all over our congregation. I am praying for little wildfires to catch as God stirs in us. More small groups of service, whether their passion be to the unborn, the poor, the widows and orphans, the youth, young moms, etc. I am praying for passion to ignite in our people like never before.

This is no doubt longer than you wanted to read but I needed to write it out for myself as well. I am praying that our fellowship of believers will hear His voice, and begin talking about ways that they can serve according to their passion. I know that you’ve both preached on this and that we’ve done some of this in the past but this is how He led me for this day.

The next Tues. was more intercession …[my friend from Crossroads and I] prayed together and we believe that this year of 2009 is going to be a breakthrough year for us at CCC. I look forward to reading, if possible, what God was speaking to you both and to the others that responded to this call.”

I am in an expectant mode of watching and hearing of the fruit from our people.

Fasting Questions:

“Well, I did it.  Yesterday, I did without food (except for a very small breakfast), water, car radio ( and I thoroughly enjoy listening to WMBI), my computers at school, and TV.  It was truly an experience…….one that I need to do again in order to fully comprehend and appreciate the objective behind it.

I have a friend at school… He is extremely gentle and knowledgeable regarding the Bible and God’s word.  After I told him about my fasting, he informed me that when one fasts, we need to do this privately.  Is this true?  When I fast, am I supposed to keep it to myself?  I told my friends and students I was fasting because I felt proud……….proud of my faith, my church, and my will.  What is your opinion or your interpretation of fasting?  Thanks and hope all is well with you and yours’.”

Here was my response to his questions:

I’m so glad you joined us in this experience!

Your friend is right, however, as we have been learning in our TXT series it is important to read the verses in their context.

¹⁶ “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. ¹⁷ But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. ¹⁸ Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” Matthew 6

Jesus said this for those who were going out of their way to make it look like they were suffering greatly for their faith.  I think your intentions in sharing your fasting experience was to point people to God and His role in your life not your personal suffering.  In addition, there are a number of times in the Bible where it talks about all the people fasting together.  They would have to talk about it together and share the experience.

There is a good balance to keep when we fast.  We focus on God and at the same time He is going to lead us to love those around us more and we should tell them Who is responsible for that.

It all comes from you, it all belongs to you, it all exists for your glory.

History is your story.

The Scripture tells us, “Hear, O Israel, the LORD is our God, the LORD is one.” And you are the compassionate and merciful one. And you are loving to everyone you have made.

Now today, we rejoice not only in America’s peaceful transfer of power for the 44th time, we celebrate a hinge point of history with the inauguration of our first African-American president of the United States.

We are so grateful to live in this land, a land of unequaled possibility, where a son of an African immigrant can rise to the highest level of our leadership. And we know today that Dr. King and a great cloud of witnesses are shouting in heaven.

Give to our new president, Barack Obama, the wisdom to lead us with humility, the courage to lead us with integrity, the compassion to lead us with generosity.

Bless and protect him, his family, Vice President Biden, the Cabinet, and every one of our freely elected leaders.

Help us, O God, to remember that we are Americans-united not by race or religion or blood, but to our commitment to freedom and justice for all.

When we focus on ourselves, when we fight each other, when we forget you-forgive us.

When we presume that our greatness and our prosperity is ours alone-forgive us.

When we fail to treat our fellow human beings and all the earth with the respect that they deserve-forgive us.

And as we face these difficult days ahead, may we have a new birth of clarity in our aims, responsibility in our actions, humility in our approaches, and civility in our attitudes-even when we differ.

Help us to share, to serve, and to seek the common good of all.

May all people of good will today join together to work for a more just, a more healthy, and a more prosperous nation and a peaceful planet.

And may we never forget that one day, all nations–and all people–will stand accountable before you.

We now commit our new president and his wife, Michelle, and his daughters, Malia and Sasha, into your loving care.

I humbly ask this in the name of the one who changed my life-Yeshua, ‘Isa, Jesus [Spanish pronunciation], Jesus-who taught us to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.

Amen.

Posted by Marshall Shelley on January 21, 2009