9/29/19 - Worship and a Burden for the Lost

Good morning friends! 

This past week we continued in Sunday school with Jordan and spent some time reflecting on theology and its relationship with the liturgy of our worship. I hope that this is something you can attend with your students and keep talking about as you go home! We have one more week of the Worship workshop before we begin 2 Kings! 

In youth group we spent some time going over what a burden for the lost looks like. Following up on last weeks lesson, we thought about what a changed life in Christ looks like. I found myself desperately trying to communicate a reality that cannot be known without experiencing it. There is an overwhelming joy and passion that is found in Christ and just like Zacchaeus, a single encounter is enough to radically change a heart. 

I challenged our students to examine whether or not they had allowed their encounter with Christ to truly change their lives. How was their day to day different because of Christ within them? Honestly? Specifically, how do you feel about those who do not believe now that you have Christ? I feel like this is a good "heart check" question, but especially in a family context. I think it would be incredible for you as a parent(s) to reflect on that question yourself and then bring it up with your student. There may be some things that you do that your kids may not know about because of your faith. Setting that example and being willing to talk about why you live differently might be a push for your child to dive deeper into their personal relationship with Christ. Spend time in prayer with them. Earnest, beautiful and thankful prayer. 

As this year continues, I would love to see students and parents grow closer to God together. I know that a weekly reminder is a good thing, but nothing compares to daily interactions from parent to child. Even if your student doesnt have a perfect relationship with you, or it feels like nothing is happening, I would encourage you to give it a shot. Try praying with your child for a month. Ask them about what they struggle with in life and faith. Push deeper into their hearts and try to understand their world and their thoughts. 

I'm still convinced that Jesus is moving in a big way in Zeeland. My heart is full and excited, and I can't wait to see where He takes us this year!