This week our special speaker from Compassion Ministries, Owen Githanga, told us about his journey from poverty to flourishing because he received help as a Compassion child. He said that the mental oppression of poverty left him the moment he experienced saving faith in Jesus.
MY STORY
Describe a time when badly-needed help came from an unexpected source. Tell us what happened.
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
"Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven." And he laid his hands on them and went away. (Mathew 19:13-14)
Why did the disciples try to shoo the children away from Jesus?
What was the Lord's response when they did this?
What does it mean to remove obstacles for children so that they have better access to Jesus?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passages above, what are the factual "takeaways" that are meaningful to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
React to the following quote: "Helping people (especially children) reach economic, social, physical, and spiritual flourishing is simply the expectation Jesus has for those who follow him."
In what ways are we are flourishing economically, socially, physically and spiritually? In which of these areas do you need some help?
How do you decide who you should help as an individual, or as a part of the Crossroads family?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit's leading, nudging us toward?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Prayerfully ask God what changes or adjustments he'd like you to make in this distribution in order to address the needs that are important to him – especially the needs of kids around the world.
Consider sponsoring a Compassion child this week.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step is the Holy Spirit is calling you toward?
Message Notes
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