July 6th, 2008

Caring Conversation:

Think about a time when you had to start something new.  Maybe moving to a new house, a new school, starting a new job, etc.  What was the hardest part?  The best part?

Devotion:      Read:  Jeremiah 29:7-12

For Adults and Youth:  The Israelites are in exile in a foreign land & God tells them to make the best of where they are.  How might you still prosper in a difficult time?  How does your faith impact how you look at the future? What promise does God give you in this text?

For Children:  Is change (trying something new) scary or exciting to you?  What makes it feel that way for you?  Like the Israelites, we are not always happy, but God tells us to do something in this passage even if we are not happy.  What is it?  What promise does God give us for the future?

Pray:   Awesome God, We come to you not knowing what lies ahead, but trusting in your mercy and protection.  Help us glorify your name wherever we are, so that we can live with the hope you give us. Amen

Ritual/Tradition:  Make this summer a time to STOP, to Spend Time Outside Playing.  Whether you are an adult or a child, summer is a great time to refresh your mind and simply have fun and what better place to do that then outdoors.  Spend at least 1 hour everyday outdoors playing.  Playing can be walking, reading a book, basketball, eating ice cream, camping, swimming, etc). The important thing is to STOP!

Service:  Neighborhoods are full of different people & different needs.  In every community God calls us to help, to know one another.  This week as you play or work outside do something for your community; take a walk and pick up trash, plant a tree, mow someone’s lawn, etc.  Notice where you live & do something for it.