NEW YEAR / NEW INVITATION: Renewing Devotion

Happy New Year MCs!

As we begin 2023 you and your MC groups are invited to an intentional time of renewing devotion to our Lord. 

For some it may mean beginning (or rededicating) time each day to meet with the Lord. The renewal could include purposely redirecting a talent or gifts to the work of the kingdom. Or one could be called into deep reflection to realign their desires and will to the Lord’s.  Giving ourselves to the Lordship of Christ, means turning away from others things (even “good” things) to make room for the holy. 

Starting the week of Jan 15th through the end of February your group will receive encouragement and scripture to guide in this time of service ministering to the LORD. 

Let us begin 2023 by being set apart for Him, together as His people. 

GO B.L.E.S.S(service/sent)

GRATITUDE AS WORSHIP:

October 30th - November 20th (weeks of)

We are in a sermon series for The Heart of Worship. As we prepare for a season highlighted by the adoration of Jesus’s - let’s intentionally examine our heart’s ability for gratitude. The Lord has been so generous to us and HE is worthy of our gratitude.

 

RightNow Media Resource

GRATITUDE AS WORSHIP

(CLICK HERE FOR MC GROUP NOTES)

  • What is gratitude and how is it invoked?

  • Are we aware of our barriers to gratitude?

  • How do we worship God daily through our actions as we share gratitude and invitation towards those around us?

“The spiritual discipline of gratitude is an act of worship to God. ”
— Bruce Stryd

MC POST CONFERENCE: Pursue - 2 week special focus

Hi leaders!

We hope you were poured into during the Pursue conference - and hope you also took the opportunity to pour out the love of God into others!

Let’s cultivate the posture of pursuing God the next few weeks in the MCs as we remain in the “pursue” focus. Attached are some suggestions and prompts for discussion.

The upcoming focus, which starts the week of October 23rd, is included at the top of the document. More resources will be posted next week for this.

 

Post Conference Resources

Resources are being added to the Post Conference Resource page on the website as well.

 

THANK YOU for you leading!

Myths, Resentment, and How-tos of Forgivness

Ever wonder…

  • If I forgive should I forget? And what about accountability?

  • Is forgiveness the same as reconciliation?

  • How do I walk someone through practical steps of forgiveness?

  • How do I recognize resentment and what do I do about it?

Our faith foundation is built on the forgiveness of Christ towards us. So, walking in forgiveness towards others is vital in our discipleship. But what does that really mean and how do we remain on the journey of forgiveness when life brings the most painful offenses?

To equip you and your group to face questions like these, we have put together some resources on forgiveness.

Even if these are not current questions you or your MC is facing, know where to find the resources when you do. The Links above are also on the main MC Leader Resource Page. Download the files or save the google drive links.

Do you need other resources or support? Please reach out to the MC Shepards Team.

BLESSings!

SUMMER TRAINING: July 24th

Hi World Impactors!

In the book the Starfish and the Spirit (pg 236), KC Underground’s definition of discipleship is:

Character x Calling = Impact

Character development happens with intention and calling is clarified with experience. We believe intentional action (and reflection on those actions) will not only clarify our callings as Christ followers, but will also have lasting gospel impact for those we live among.

God has called and equipped each of us to impact the world. One blessing at a time.

And all for the glory and honor of our Lord Jesus Christ. For, it is Him we live for!

Watch A Blessing Strategy

by Dave Ferguson (RightNow Video )

If you need a login to RightNow video sign up HERE

 

SLIDE REVIEW

Your favorite side :) Highlighted for easy access

 

Looking at Jesus - BLESSED LIVING

Jesus’ invitation to Peter starts with “come and you will see…” John 1:39. In Matt 4:19 the second invitation is, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Jesus gives an invitation and a challenge. Discipleship is not sedentary :)

He brings His followers into times of intense ministry and service -then into time of reflection in conversation. Which leads to opportunities for celebration and correction. 

Jesus lived an action-and-contemplation lifecycle with His disciples (engagement then retreat, teaching and then debriefing, action then reflection). Let us follow the Lord’s example and encourage each other to do the same. 

  • Be open to the Lord’s invitation.

  • Allow the Holy Spirit to challenge you.

  • Respond with obedience.

  • Practice intentional reflection in your gatherings.

  • Repeat :)

See you in community!! Go B.L.E.S.S.

@CEDARSCHURCH