Sunday, March 29th
Discipleship: Spiritual Formation Part II // Pastor Nathanael Trinh
WE ARE THE CHURCH
At this time, for the safety and good of each other and our greater community, it is recommended that we refrain from gathering with each other in our homes. It is suggested that even small group gatherings under 50 should consider meeting online to prevent further spread of COVID-19. (E.g. Skype, Google Hangout, Zoom…etc.) Although we are not able to meet as a large group in our regular church environment, church has not been cancelled. Rather, church continues on because the body of Christ is not confined to a particular building. This is an opportunity for us to do church and worship differently. Not only does it help us learn how to be in community and worship without depending on programs and routines, but it also challenges us to remain close (not neglecting to meet up), despite our circumstances. Thank God, for technology! Doing church at home also gives us an opportunity to learn how to worship together with our own families (kids included!) in our own homes.
INTERGENERATIONAL WORSHIP GUIDE
Follow the guide below for intergenerational (family) worship. The guide below will revolve around the weekly sermon.
For another family worship resource that includes a new weekly lesson (different from the sermon), go to eccckids.com, for instructions and kid + family friendly activities!
WORSHIP
Many of us think of worship as a time to sing with a band at church. But worship is so much more than that. To worship is to turn your attention and affection towards God in adoration and awe. Below are a few suggestions for an extended time of worship with your family and E3C community:
Listen and sing along to a few songs on YouTube.
Pick a few Psalms and read them out loud together.
Spend a few minutes expressing gratitude out loud to God.
Consider ending your time by singing a few songs of worship a cappella (without instruments). E.g. Doxology
Dance with your kids to worship music!
For the most part, kids can and love to follow what we usually sing in adult worship. If you’re looking for other kid worship music, here are some ideas below:
Scripture based music (also great to play in the background to expose kids to truth!)
TEACHING + DISCUSSION
Watch sermon and after listening, discuss the following questions:
What does spiritual formation look like in your life? Do you lack spiritual formation?
How can you integrate some of the spiritual formation practices (hearing, reading, study, praying through the Psalms, memorization and meditation) in your life?
In what ways do you think the teaching of God’s word can correct some of the stories (from the world, from yourself, from the enemy) that you believe in?
Try out some spiritual formation practices this week!
PRAYER
To conclude your time together, spend some time in prayer. Begin with a few minutes in silence, listening for what God might have to say to you, your family, or your community in this moment. After some time of listening, and sharing, spend time praying for:
Respond to the preaching of the Word
Eradication of COVID-19 and healing for those who are sick
Followers of Jesus to be a presence of peace, love, and hope in our church community, our neighbours (E.g. Argyll), and our greater city. Pray that this time would not divide and perpetuate selfishness, but propel us to think of others
Comfort and peace for those who are at high risk
Lift up those who are working in the front lines (E.g. Healthcare workers, retail workers, city workers, and those who continue to serve our community tirelessly, while putting themselves at risk). Give thanks for them and pray for protection, wisdom, and strength.
That this time of social distancing would not be seen as purely an inconvenience and something to suffer through, but taken as an opportunity to learn how to slow down when and where we can, to refocus on the things that give life, such as spending more time in prayer and in His Word. This also means taking this opportunity to spend more intentional time with our families, and checking in with those who don’t live with family by text or phone call!
That our faith would be refined and we would be emboldened to share the hope of Christ to those who don’t know Him yet.
INTERGENERATIONAL WORSHIP
This is an opportunity to practice family worship at home! Let’s learn to cultivate an intentionality and heart to discipleship our children at home, outside the context of church programs. Here are some ideas for worshipping with your children:
BABIES/YOUNG CHILDREN
Play: While the adults are listening to the sermon, young children can follow along with the sermon note handout linked below, or if too young, they can have free play. In a time of high anxiety and stress, play is an easy, fun way for kids to feel relief and safety. You can allow free play, have them make crafts, colour (colouring page download available below), read books…etc.
Bible: Read today’s passage. Focus on the main idea/one verse and discuss. If a bible story comes to mind that aligns with the theme, tell the story!
Apply: Try reading out loud and then praying through a few verses of a familiar Psalm with your whole family.
Pray: Respond to the message. Spend time together to pray for peace and health in our world. This is a great time to remind kids that God is good, strong, and loving. He is in control. Pray together for people who are in need and for God to give eyes to see ways in which they can be a light in their community. Share personal worries and pray.
Resources/Activities:
Older children + youth
Bible: Have them listen to the sermon with you. Encourage them to follow along with their bibles.
Apply: Share and discuss questions given above in “teaching + discussion” section of the guide.
Pray: Respond to the message and follow prayer guide above in “prayer” section of the guide.
Resources/Activities: