This weekend's message is a celebration of so many of the things that God has been doing in us, around us, and through us at The Crossing. Sometimes we run at a pace that prevents us from seeing the things He is doing in our midst. It's important to pause, to look back, and reflect on God's work in our lives, and to give thanks. Pastor Greg divided the message up into our 3 E's (Explore, Experience, Express) Below are some specific things to celebrate. Choose one of more of these things to discuss their impact and meaning in your own lives. Share about what excites and/or inpsires you. Pray about next steps - as a group and as individuals, in following Jesus this year, for surely God is not finished with us yet!
Upcoming series
- continuing Unleashed
- A&Q (topics include Angels & Demons, Aliens, What happens after death? Prayer, does it make a difference?)
- The 7 Days in the life of Jesus before Easter
- Easter
- My 2nd Chance
- Baptism in June
God's message is getting out through the ministry of this church and because of the faithfulness of His people:
- More people have been baptized this past year in a single event than ever before in the history of this church.
- Our services and online resources are touching over 171 different countries.
- Living Water International, (The Crossing contributed over 1.4 million to LW this year. KidsCrossing alone gave nearly $10,000!) Over past 18 years, a quarter of a million people's lives have been transformed by access to clean water, and improved hygiene all in Jesus' name. Women are safe, children can attend school. People no longer dying at record levels due to unsanitary water.
- Genius of One conferences have impacted over 4000 pastors in Africa and Asia. Translated into over a dozen languages.
"God is still at work in our midst..."
Connect
Take a few minutes and have someone read the Scripture passages aloud. Matthew 28:1-20, Acts 2:42, John 17 (whole chapter) How/why do you think these particular passages are so significant to the vision of this church?
Discuss
Matthew 28 passage- Jesus calls us to GO. Go make disciples, baptizing, etc. Sometimes that involves "inviting." What especially excites you in any of the upcoming series? Who could you invite?
John 17:20-23 Jesus is praying for us. Ponder this powerful thought. How does this impact your growth as His follower?
Action Steps
Since God is not finished with us yet, what are some ways you and your group can join God in what He is doing? Take time to dream and share ideas. How can we help impact the next generation with His Word?
Pray
Heavenly Father, All glory and praise to You for all that You have been doing in our lives. Thank You for the opportunities surrounding us and your invitation to step into the story You are writing here at The Crossing. Would You open our eyes to people who need You. People to invite to upcoming weekends. Would You reveal to each one of us the next right step for us to take, as individuals and as a group. Expand our vision of what is possible in impacting a single life. Jesus, we trust You and look for all You are doing to bring Your kingdom here. We believe that You're not finished yet.
We ask these things in Your Holy and Powerful name,
Amen