PREFACE
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Jessyka & Kiefer Dooley
PREFACE
Hello youth of the Rocky Mountain Conference! We’re writing near the end of December, 2020... at the tail end of what has been a unique year for everyone and a difficult, stressful, trying, and scary year for many. We missed you all a lot this year as we cancelled youth events and summer camp to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and keep our communities safe. During the year of cancelled events, we undertook a special project for you! This devotional series is a weekly connection for you to read and follow on your own, with your family, Pathfinder group, church group, or even a group of your close friends. Over the course of the 52 weeks in 2021, we’ll explore what it means to live out our God-given purpose. As you follow along each week, we hope that you’ll find inspira- tion to connect your story to the greatest story of Jesus and by doing so will find new ways to go from ordinary toFully Alive.
Before we dive in, we’d like to acknowledge and shout out the people who helped make this devotional series a reality: Our summer camp 2020 team, specifically John Kent and Joselena Madrigal who lead the initial charge in creating the devotional plan, Eddie Hall who crafted the design, and Vanessa Alarcon who translated the devotional into Spanish.
We pray that 2021 is a year full of joy and meaningful experiences for you. We also hope that this devotional finds a meaningful place in your jour- ney with Jesus. In the midst of life’s ups and downs, we are confident that through God’s power, we are able to Live Greater each and every day.
Jessyka & Kiefer Dooley Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I Can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – OUR BELONGING ESTABLISHED Q1,W1
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32. “...This brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” - Luke 15:32 READ
Have you ever felt out of place? Maybe you and he knew things had gotten bad when he started a new school and didn’t know where was thinking about eating the pig slop *barf*. any of your classes were. Or maybe at a birth- This guy is at a low point in his life and begins day party for a friend and you only knew one to think about his old life with his old house or two people there. Feeling out of place is and his old family. He realizes that the ser- normal. We’ve all felt that way before. But, vants who work for his dad have a pretty good more often, there are places where we feel life. They eat well and have a nice place to like we do belong. Usually we feel like we stay, so the son made up his mind. He would belong when we are with the right people, go back home and ask his dad if he could be people that we love and trust. As we begin a servant. The son doesn’t think he is worthy this journey of discovering what it looks like enough to be part of the family anymore. to live Fully Alive, it is important to remind As he made his way up the road to his old ourselves of what it means to belong. home, someone came running towards him and wrapped him in the biggest hug he’s ever Have you heard the story of the prodigal had. It was his dad! His dad was so happy that son in Luke 15? In this story, there are two his son was finally home where he belonged. sons, and one of them wants to go explore The father threw a huge party and rejoiced the world, see what’s out there and what he because his son was back where he belonged. might be missing. See if he can find a new and better place to belong. His dad ends up Maybe you’ve felt kind of like the son. Trying giving him his share of the inheritance and to figure out who you are and where you the son takes off! His dad must have been belong. When we try to find a place to belong pretty hurt when he took all that money and in this world, we’ll usually find ourselves dis- left them for good. appointed at some point or another. However, finding our belonging in God will never fail. The son ends up blowing all his money on This story reminds us that no matter where stupid things and ends up broke, lonely, and we go or what we do, we will always have a hungry. He ends up taking a job feeling pigs home and a place to belong with God. He is
RMCYOUTH WK OF JAN 2 PAGE 4 always more than ready to embrace us and throw a party! Never forget that God is longing to have you come back home and run into his arms. Being at “home” with God is never boring, because he’s throwing you a party!
When we understand that our belonging is in God, we can live in confidence, and living in con- fidence moves us to live Fully Alive.
DISCUSS
1. Have you ever felt out of place? When/where was that? 2. Where are some places that you feel like you do belong? 3. What are some signs that you belong somewhere? 4. How did you expect the Father to act when his son came home after making many bad decisions? 5. How can this truth about belonging in God positively change your life?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Rewrite the story of the Prodigal Son in your own Make an effort to include someone this words! week. Go out of your way to show them that they belong! Ideas: Give characters names, draw a cartoon strip, explain Ideas: more about what the son spent his money on, make Ask someone to sit with you at lunch or the story sound like it was told in 2021. invite them to play on your team for a game.
NOTES PRAY ______God, thank you for reminding me that I ______belong with you. Something that has been ______making me feel like I don’t belong is: ______It makes me feel confident knowing that no ______matter where I am or what’s going on in my ______life, You’ve got me!
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 5 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – THE BEGINNING Q1,W2
BIBLEBIBLE Start in the Bible! Read the story of the creation of man in Genesis 1:26-28.
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness...’” READ - Genesis 1:26
What does it mean to be alive? A beating and Eve to be “fruitful and multiply,” meaning heart? Breathing in and out? So what does it that they were to populate the earth and cre- mean to be FULLY ALIVE? To better under- ate a family. Doing this meant that they were stand how we are to live our lives to the full- to love and care for each other and their fam- est, we need to go back to the beginning, ily. When we love those around us, our fam- when God created our world. You may have ily, friends, and even strangers, we are being read or heard the Creation Story told in the fully alive. The last way that God gave us to book of Genesis. The first chapter of the book be fully alive is also another way to love. God talks about how God took six days to design told Adam and Eve to rule over the earth and a perfect world for us to live in and enjoy. At everything that lives in it. This means that we the end of these six days, God created Adam are to love the animals and take care of the out of the ground, and later, He made Eve so whole earth. that Adam and Eve could be together. Both of them were made in God’s image - and so Did you notice the theme of how God wants are you! Being made in God’s image is a very us to be fully alive? Being fully alive means special thing. It’s crazy to think that every sin- having true love in all of our relationships, gle person on earth is made in God’s image. from family to friends to the Earth. Love is We look different, think different, and have the core theme of being fully alive. Our pur- different talents, but we all reflect God. Crazy. pose is to love God, ourselves, those around us, and all of the earth. When we do this, we When God made Adam and Eve, He gave are following God’s purpose for us and are them three ways to be fully alive. The first one truly living. was already who they were right? They lived Fully Alive by reflecting God’s character and As we continue exploring our theme of Fully were to love and be loved. This was the first Alive this year, we will see how our purpose of way we are to be fully alive. The second two love is life changing! ways to live Fully Alive were purposes that God gave to Adam and Eve. God tells Adam
RMCYOUTH WK OF JAN 9 PAGE 6 DISCUSS
1. Is it tricky to believe that you are made in God’s image? Why?
2. God’s love is unconditional, this means that no matter what, God loves us. Without God, our love becomes conditional. We find it hard to love others when they do things that we don’t like. What do you think makes someone hard to love?
3. Share a Bible story about someone who seems hard to love. How do we know God still loved them fully even then?
4. Why do you think it can be so difficult to show yourself unconditional love?
5. What are some ways you can love God, others, yourself, and the earth this week?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Everyone gives and receives love in different ways. Choose one person (friend, family member, classmate) and find a way to show them love Take the Five Love Languages quiz online to see them every single day this week. how you feel most loved and learn about how oth- ers might feel most loved. See the link below! Ideas: write them a nice note, give them their favorite snack, help them with homework, www.5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/teen-quiz/ text them a funny picture or video, etc.
The Five Love Languages
• Words of Affirmation • Receiving Gifts • Acts of Service • Quality Time NOTES • Physical Touch ______PRAY ______God, thank you for giving me unconditional love ______even when I’m: ______Your love for me reminds me that I can love others ______even when they are hard to love. ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 7 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – PURPOSE LOST Q1,W3
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read the story of the fall of man in Genesis 3:6-9.
“...and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” - READ Genesis 3:8
In Genesis 3, once God created Adam and be an understatement. The consequences of Eve and gave them a purpose, he set them their decision still affect us today. up in the garden to live out that purpose. He told them that they could have anything Since sin entered the world, we have lost they wanted from the garden. We often miss sight of our original purpose. Many of us go that point. The garden must have been huge through life trying to find a purpose. Just like and Adam and Eve had so much to see and Adam and Eve, when we try to find that on explore, so many fruits and vegetables to our own we will be left unfulfilled and empty. try, so many animals to learn about, so many There are many things that our current cul- opportunities to create and build them- ture tries to tell us will give meaning to our selves. Remember, God is a God of abun- lives--grades, being popular, jobs, the stuff dance. He gives us so much! The single thing we have, social media influence--but these he told them not to do was eat the fruit from things come and go. one tree, the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God wanted to protect them. This may seem dark and gloomy, but there is hope on the horizon! Back in the story in Even though they were given very clear Genesis chapter 3, God also promises to take instructions, they chose to do the one thing this bad situation and make it good again. He God told them not to. The devil in the form was speaking about the life, death, and res- of a serpent made Eve believe that maybe urrection of Jesus. That means that we don’t there was more to her purpose than God had have to live our lives as the world tells us. We given her. The serpent twisted God’s words can live fully alive by recognizing God’s prom- and convinced Eve who soon convinced ise of restoration. When we know that, we can Adam that eating the fruit would make them change the direction of our lives by following like God. Instead of trusting that the meaning our original purpose--to love and be loved. of their life given to them by God was good, they decided to take matters into their own Although God explained to us how we could hands.. Saying that this didn’t end well would live the best life by living in His love, we chose
RMCYOUTH WK OF JAN 16 PAGE 8 not to do that. Shortly after God created Adam and Eve in His image, they sadly decided that they wanted a better life than what God had designed for them. Adam and Eve ate from the tree God had told them to stay away from and by doing so they disobeyed God. When they did this, they rejected God’s purpose for them and began to design their own.
Really, they lost their purpose. And as we will see next week, everything became messed up.
DISCUSS
1. What was God’s original purpose for all of us on the earth? 2. What purpose do you think God has for you and your life? 3. Why is it sometimes confusing to follow your purpose, or calling, in life? 4. Do you think that following the greatest purpose “to love and be loved” will lead you to following other purposes in your life? Why? 5. What are some things in this world that have distracted you from seeing God’s purpose in your life?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
On a piece of paper write down, “Because I am loved, Think of three ways that you can live out I can love others.” Take a picture of the paper and set your purpose to love others this week? Take it as your phone’s lock screen or put the paper some- a friend or two with you to do those things. where you will see it every day this week. Ideas: Bake cookies for a neighbor, volun- teer at an animal shelter and take the dogs NOTES for walks, write encouraging notes to peo- ______ple and put them in classmates’ lockers ______PRAY ______God, you have such a big purpose for my ______life. Sometimes I feel sidetracked with : ______Everyday I want to remind myself that your ______purpose is bigger and better than anything ______I could ever find on my own.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 9 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – SEARCHING FOR PURPOSE Q1,W4
BIBLE flood to cover the whole earth, kind of like a reset button. There was one guy, Noah, who still knew that his purpose was from God. Start in the Bible! God shared his plan with Noah and told him Read the story of Noah and the Ark in to build a giant boat so that he could take two Genesis chapters 6 to 9. of each kind of animal and any people who trusted Him. Just like God had a plan in the Garden of Eden, He had a plan to save.
Noah worked super hard to build the boat READ God told him about. Every day he tried to convince everyone on earth to come with him When Adam and Eve chose to go against on the boat before the flood. Because Noah God’s warning and eat the fruit from the tree stuck with God, he knew that God wanted of the knowledge of good and evil, they lost to keep his people safe. Unfortunately, only sight of their purpose and were no longer Noah, his family, and the animals chose to living their lives to the fullest. Sin was now get on the boat before the flood. messing up God’s perfect world. Adam and Eve started to notice all of the pain and dis- Sometimes, God’s way seems weird and trust sin caused. Adam and Eve still reflected doesn’t always make sense. The people who God’s image, but they had chosen to see if lived during Noah’s time had never experi- they could live fully alive apart from God. enced a flood. They thought that Noah had gone crazy. Noah trusted God’s purpose for his life even if it seemed strange. Noah not As time went on, people tried everything only built the boat, but he invited everyone, they could to find their purpose again. Many even the ones who made fun of him to get in. people wanted to figure things out on their own rather than look to God. At one point, God’s purpose for us always includes inviting things had gotten so bad that God sent a others along for the journey.
RMCYOUTH WK OF JAN 23 PAGE 10 “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” Genesis 6:8
DISCUSS
1. How do you think Noah felt when God asked him to build the boat? 2. Why do you think Noah chose to listen to God instead of everyone else around him? 3. How do you think people treated Noah? 4. Would you have listened to Noah if you were alive before the flood? Why? 5. Have you ever felt out of place by following God? What was it like? 6. Do you think it’s easy or hard to include others who don’t agree with you? Why?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Take the Myers Briggs personality test by visiting Is there someone you don’t always get along www.16personalities.com. Don’t worry, this is the free well with? Don’t ignore them this week! one! After completing the test, read about your per- sonality type. How do you think the personality that Ask them how they are doing, what they God gave you shapes your purpose? Discuss this with think about different ideas, what their your friends and family. favorite show is right now, or something that will help you get to know them better. Take time to listen to what they have to say. NOTES ______PRAY ______God, your purpose for me is so big. Just ______like Noah was able to love and invite peo- ______ple who were unkind to him into the boat, I ______want to be kind to: ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 11 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – JESUS GIVES US PURPOSE Q1,W5
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read 2 Cor. 5:14-15.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – READ John 10:10
Have you ever tried something thinking that rule of a God who cares about us deeply. it would be great but it turned out terrible? God loves us so much that even though we My mom used to spread something called move away from His purpose, he’ll always be Marmite on her bread all the time. It was there to remind us of the truth. God went so brown and looked like a chocolate spread, far to help us out that he sent His son Jesus and I really wanted to taste it. I heaped a huge to give us our purpose back and show us how amount on my bread and prepared myself for to really love and be loved again. Jesus came the most delicious slice of toast I would ever and lived on earth to show those around him have. I chomped a bite and quickly realized it just how to be fully alive. He said in John 10:10 was not chocolate! I put my toast down really that, “while thieves steal, kill, and destroy, He fast and tried to find something else to get had come so that we could have abundant rid of that nasty Marmite taste in my mouth. life.” Sin steals and destroys like a thief, but Jesus came to make us fully alive again. Sin equals death, but Jesus took our place, gave My experience with Marmite is similar to His life, and showed His power over sin. what we do every day. We see things that look like they’ll be good, so we try them, only Because of Jesus, we don’t have to live dead to be disappointed in the end. That’s what sin lives. We get to live fully alive lives. Jesus does. shows us what it looks like to live in God’s image and love as we are designed to do. Just like Adam and Eve thought it was a good idea to try the fruit from the tree that God So what does it really mean to be fully alive? told them not to go near, we see things that It can be hard to know what it means to really look good on the outside, but leave us feeling love, be loved, and live God’s purpose. The crummy after we’ve tried them. Whenever we more we learn about Jesus and spend time try to live fully alive all on our own and away with him, the more we will understand what from God, it will leave us with a bad taste in real love looks like and how we can live our our mouth. Fortunately, we live life under the purpose every single day.
RMCYOUTH WK OF JAN 30 PAGE 12 DISCUSS
1. What are some things in your life or in your friends’ lives that are like a thief and take away your joy, happiness, and purpose? 2. We can learn so much about God through the picture of Jesus that we see in the Bible. What are 3 things that you absolutely know about God from reading about Jesus’ life? 3. What do you think are a few things Jesus would do if he was on earth today? What are some things in your life that you know Jesus wouldn’t want to do? 4. Is love just a feeling or is there something more to it? 5. What are a few ways that can help us remember that God loves us even when we don’t feel like it?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Grab a bunch of your favorite foods and snacks. It’s Sometimes it’s hard to actually feel fully important to get a variety of foods (you’ll understand alive with yourself. This week, choose to why soon!). do something that makes you feel joy and happiness. Now, mix them up! It’s important to pick things that give you You might have cheez-its with pudding. Or Nutella on joy. Some ideas might be to go on a hike, pizza. Or pickles in hot chocoloate! eat your favorite food, or dance to your favorite song about Jesus. Try a sampling of these new creations and share them with your youth group, friends, or family! Remember God created you to enjoy the good things in life! NOTES ______PRAY ______God, thank you that your love is so big. ______Sometimes it can be hard to feel loved, ______especially when I’m sad or lonely. When I’m ______not feeling it, help me to know that your ______love hasn’t left me. Even when I feel inse- ______cure about . . . ______. . . I know that you love and value me fully.
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – LIVING LOVE Q1,W6
BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the story of the creation image-bearers. To bear something means of man one more time. It’s found in Genesis to carry it. Think about a ring bearer in a 1:26-31. wedding, that person is tasked with carry- ing the ring to the altar. In the same way, we “You shall love the Lord your God with all your are called to carry the image of God with us heart and with all your soul and with all your everywhere we go. He is love (see 1 John 4:8), mind. This is the great and first command- which means that we are meant to carry the ment. And a second is like it: You shall love your image of love with us. We are created to love neighbor as yourself.” - Matthew 22:37-39 because He is love.
The second purpose we are given at cre- READ ation is to rule over the earth. This earth was given to us as a gift and God asks us to take So far we have learned a little bit about our care of it. We are, once again, made to love. history within this idea of purpose. If you This means caring for and loving the animals, recall what we learned about our original the environment, and everything else that is purpose back in week 2 and dive in a lit- found in nature. tle deeper, you’ll see that it all comes back to love. In Genesis 1, God gives three main The third purpose we find at creation is objectives to live by--to reflect God’s image, found in God’s command to multiply and fill to rule over the earth, and to multiply and fill the earth. In other words, we are supposed to the earth. create and care for new life.
Let’s break this down – Now that we have talked about what pur- pose is, we want to remind you that the driv- The first purpose we are given is inherent, ing force behind our God-given purpose is meaning it’s in our blood. We were cre- love. If we take a look again at the text that ated in the image of God and that makes us tells us about our original purpose, then we
RMCYOUTH WK OF FEB 6 PAGE 14 can see that those three main components of purpose in the creation story all point back to love. We also know that God tells us that the greatest commandment is love (that’s what Jesus tells us in the Bible text from Matthew at the beginning of this week’s devotion reading).
So, throughout the rest of this year-long study, we want everyone to remember that no matter what, our purpose, value and ability to live Fully Alive all comes back to love.
DISCUSS
1. In your own words, what are the 3 categories of purpose outlined in the ‘Read’ section? 2. What is a burden that you are carrying? 3. Can you identify your burden as belonging in one of the 3 categories of purpose outlined in the creation story? 4. What is one tangible way that you love God? How about your neighbor? 5. In what ways could you share God’s love today? This week? This year?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Did you answer the questions in the ‘Discuss’ sec- This week, try to figure out at least 3 new tion above? Ttake some time to put your ideas from ideas for how you can live love with your questions 4 and 5 into practice! siblings, your parents, your friends and your neighbors. Ideas: tell someone you’re thankful for them, write and deliver an uplifitng card, volunteer at an animal If you’re stumped, talk to your parents, shelter or a soup kitchen, or start a sock drive to friends, or teachers and get them involved in provide for homeless in your community. this challenge, too!
PRAY NOTES God, I’m thankful that you are love. I’m glad that my ______purpose is to live my life in a loving way. I ask that ______you help me to love you and to love others just as ______Jesus taught us. I believe that I can reflect Your love ______to others by: ______Thank you for caring for me, for hearing me, and for ______helping me to live out love every single day. ______
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Q1, W7
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read John 14:23-24.
Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them READ and make our home with them.”
So far this year, we’ve been looking at how our bottom line: Because God loves and values purpose as humans, on a big picture level, has me, I can love and value myself. changed over time. We’ve read Bible stories from creation to the life of Jesus and seen A key component of any relationship is love. lessons about purpose along the way. Starting Do you remember how we know about this week, we’ll begin to take the next step on love? There is definitely a song about this:♪ our journey of exploring what it means to be ...because He first loved us♪ . You know, living Fully Alive. This means that instead of looking in a relationship with God is really not as com- at the big picture, we’re going to begin looking plicated as you might think. To help us under- at our own personal relationships and how stand, we’ll look in the Bible at this week’s that influences our ability to live a Fully Alive passage. In John 14, Jesus tells His disciples life. All of our relationships, the ones we have that if we love God and want a relationship with our family, friends, neighbors, church with Him, we will keep His commandments. family, greater community, and the world, Keeping God’s commandments is just a fancy are all defined by how we think of and inter- way of saying that we will do what he asks us act with ourselves and with God . Living Fully to, and what He asks of us, leads us to full and Alive starts with realizing that God LOVES happy lives. Think about how you act around US. Do you believe that God loves you? If you the people who you care about – like maybe really do, then you’ll start to be able to love your best friend, or your mom, dad or even a yourself in the same way. But it doesn’t stop pet animal. You probably do the things they there. Letting God love us means that we also ask for or need because you love and care for love God back. Do you see what this means? them. It’s the same way with God. Living Fully Alive means being in a relation- ship with God. When we put it in religious, church-ey talk, it might seem like God’s commandments are a The next few weeks are going to help us learn long list of do’s and don’ts. But if you think how to live in a deep relationship with God. about God’s love and a relationship with Him, As we move on, keep in mind this quarter’s you’ll see that God’s commandments are
RMCYOUTH WK OF FEB 13 PAGE 16 actually instructions on how to love and care for two of the most important relationships in your life: the one you have with God and the one you have with yourself. Think of it this way: loving God and living in relationship with Him is just letting God love you. This may seem a little weird, but this is because our relationship with God is not quite like other relationships. God knows that we don’t have perfect love and we will struggle to love Him. That’s why Jesus came to die in our place - to save us from sin and enable us to love perfectly once more.
As we continue on our journey, remember that you can love God by doing what he asks. When you do this, you’ll find that it leads you to a better, Fully Alive life.
DISCUSS
1. What does a one-sided relationship look like? 2. If you had a one-sided relationship with your best friend, what might that do to the friendship? 3. What might a one sided relationship with God look like? 4. What are some of the things that God asks us to do? 5. How can it be difficult to just let God love us? 6. Do you believe that God loves and values you? How would a “yes” vs. a “no” answer to this question change your outlook on life? WEEKLY CHALLENGE ACTIVITY Write down each day of the week (on your ONE. Make some hot chocolate this week by using some phone, or in your notebook or journal). Now, milk (regular, oat, almond, or whatever floats your milk under or next to each day, write down one boat) and hot chocolate powder. The plain milk represents thing that you think God might be asking you the love we have on earth. Our love for ourselves, parents, to do that would strengthen your relationship friends, etc. It’s pretty good by itself, right? As you add in with Him. As you go throughout your days, look the hot chocolate, compare it to God’s love. at your list and do your best to put each day’s item into action. TWO. Adding in God’s love takes our love to the next level! List three things that you like about yourself. Why do you PRAY like these things? What are some things that God’s love will God, I want to believe that the love and value take to the next level in your life? you have for me will help me to live a Fully Alive life but sometimes, deep down, it’s kind of hard NOTES to really believe. Give me a heart and a mind that lets me feel your love for me. Help me to ______love you back. This week, I know that a few of ______the things you are asking me to do are: ______Thank you for being with me and giving mea ______way to have a real relationship with you.
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – TALKING TO GOD Q1, W8
BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read Matthew 11:1-13.
“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” - Jeremiah 29:12 READ
Think about the closest relationship in your really look like? Oftentimes we hear people life. Maybe it’s your best friend, a brother or pray in front of others at church or before a sister, your cousin, or even someone else. How meal, but those are usually formal prayers. often do you talk to that person? Everyday? What does it look like for you to pray to God Once a week? Once a year? My guess is that and talk to Him like you would a friend? you probably talk to them almost every day. Prayer is going to look different for each per- There is something so special about hav- son. Maybe you like to talk out loud to God or ing a close relationship with someone. You maybe you would rather pray in your head, tell them about the small things and the big you might even like to write your prayers out things, the silly things and the serious things. on pen or paper. Prayer can even be just let- You want to be around them when you’re ting God be a part of whatever you are doing happy or when you’re sad. When we talk to at the moment like: making a snack, doing and spend time with our friends, our rela- homework, taking a walk. The simplest way tionships get even deeper! to explain prayer is that it is time for you and God to communicate, and communication Just like spending time with our friends makes can happen in so many different ways. our relationship stronger, spending time with God helps us grow in our relationship with It is so important to remember that God Him. Sometimes it can be tricky to figure wants to talk with you. People often say that out how to spend time with God because he it is important to listen to God during prayer isn’t here with us in a physical way that we too. That can be challenging though. How do can see. We can’t sit in the passenger’s seat you know what’s God’s voice and what’s your while He drives us to get ice cream or hear own mind just filling the silence? Think about Him laugh out loud at our jokes. But, because it this way, any time God is talking to you, He of the Holy Spirit, we can hang out with God will always put love first. He is always remind- wherever we are, whenever we want. ing you that you are His child and He loves you more than anything. Remember, God is As Christians we know the way we can talk to always excited to spend time with you! God is through prayer. But what does prayer
RMCYOUTH WK OF FEB 20 PAGE 18 “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6
DISCUSS
1. What is your favorite place to be by yourself? 2. Where is the strangest place you’ve even seen someone pray? 3. Has there ever been a time when you felt awkward praying? What do you think made you feel this way? 4. When you pray, what makes you feel like God is listening? 5. What are some things that make it hard for you to want to pray?
WEEKLY CHALLENGE ACTIVITY
Choose a small object (coin, stone, hair tie) and take it Jesus taught his disciples how to pray. You with you everywhere this week. already read Matthew’s account. Put it in your pocket and use it as a reminder that God Read it again in Luke 11:1-4. is always there and listening to you. Then, write down each verse, one at a time, Whenever you notice it, take a moment to be with in your own words. Finally, write down what God. Tell him what you’re thinking at the moment, you think each verse means and how it how you’re feeling, something you’re looking forward applies to your life right now. to, or something that is scary for you.
PRAY NOTES ______Dear God, it’s so crazy to know that I can ______talk to you wherever and whenever. You ______love me so much and want to spend as ______much time with me as possible. It makes ______me happy to know I can tell you about any- ______thing I want. Something I want to share with ______you today is: ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 19 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – READING THE BIBLE Q1, W9
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read the following passages: • Psalms 119:105 • Hebrews 4:12 READ • 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Over the last two weeks we talked about how start reading the Bible. For example, Genesis, loving God and forming a relationship with the Gospels, or Psalms. The truth is, it does him is the foundation for a Fully Alive life. We not matter so much where you start as much also learned that prayer is a way to commu- as it does that you just start reading. nicate with God and is really about spending There are a whole lot of reasons to read the time with Him. If you followed through on Bible in some specific way and even pur- your weekly challenge you might still have poses for the really, really, really boring parts your small “prayer reminder” object in your that we all usually skip over. However, if you pocket. are just starting out and you try to read all the Another tool that we have to help us build a names in Genesis 5 or the appropriate num- relationship with God is the Bible. I’m sure ber of turtledoves to bring to the temple for you know this already, but the Bible is a col- a sin offering in Leviticus 5, the odds are you lection of books written by people who were will get bored or overwhelmed and want to inspired by the Holy Spirit. You may think that give up. it is just a big story book – filled with fun sto- So, find a story or a place in the Bible that ries, sad stories, weird stories, and funny sto- interests you, ask the Holy Spirit to guide ries that are all entertaining. But these sto- your time in the Word, and then start read- ries are not a collection of make believe tales ing! The more you read and discover who made up for entertainment. Every story in God is, the more you’ll see God’s love in the the Bible has a specific reason to show you world around you. Even in a crazy time like that God is Love. the Spring of 2021 with COVID-19 and Zoom Throughout the Bible, the character of God is and masks everywhere. As you continue to revealed. This means that as we read we get spend time in scripture, you’ll begin to know to know God for who He really is. So the ques- more about God’s character. Reading the tion for a lot of people is: where do I start? Bible should never feel like a burden or a You might have asked this yourself. Some chore. We are so lucky to live in a time and people think that there is a correct place to place where Bibles, for the most part, are
RMCYOUTH WK OF FEB 27 PAGE 20 easily accessible to everyone. There is even a Bible app for your phone! We shouldn’t take for granted that we’re able to take advantage of reading the Word of God practically anywhere and at any time. This week, your challenge is going to be to read the Bible in a way that con- nects for you. We hope that this won’t just be a 1 week challenge, but one that you continue to put in place for the rest of the year!
DISCUSS
1. What are some of the reasons someone would want to read the Bible? 2. Why can it sometimes be hard to read the Bible? 3. What is one of your favorite Bible stories? What does it tell you about God? 4. If you had to describe what the Bible is all about in one sentence, what would you say? 5. In John 1:4, we are told that the Word became flesh or human and lived with us. John was talking about Jesus. How did Jesus show us what the “Word” was all about?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Think about your favorite Bible Story. Is it Jonah Reading the Bible can sometimes feel like a chore, and the Whale, David and Goliath, Paul on the especially when we have to read for school work. Road to Damascus, or Jesus healing the leper? It’s important to find a way of reading the Bible Maybe it’s a different story entirely. Once that is fun and connects best with you. This week you’ve identified your favorite story, think of a we’re going to look at a story Jesus told in Matthew way to retell it in a creative way. Maybe you’re 18:23-35. Quick, jot that down this passage on a artistic and you draw it out as a comic strip. piece of paper or in your phone’s notes. Each Maybe you’re musical and you write a song. week, read this story in a different version (ESV, Or if you’re with a group or your family, you ICB, NASB, KJV) and on Friday, listen to the story. assign everyone a part and act it out in a skit! You can use the Bible app on your phone or pull Whatever is your thing, make the Bible story up different versions online. To listen, you could come alive for you! even have a friend or family member read to you.
PRAY NOTES ______Hey God, it is so cool to have a whole book filled ______with stories about how much you love us and are ______always bringing us back to you. Sometimes I feel ______kind of far away from you and your love, especially ______when: ______Thank you for the Bible, because when I read ______about your love it helps me to know that even ______when I feel that way, you are right there with me.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 21 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – LIVING WITH GOD Q1, W10
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read about the good things in Philippians 4:8.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the READ Father of lights” - James 1:17
As you already know, the topic this quarter rich, fudgey, chewy brownies you’ll also need is how we find value for ourselves and are eggs, oil, and butter. Then, you get to custom- able to love ourselves because we see that ize your brownies in whatever way is nice for God values us and loves us just as we are. We you! Some people like walnuts in their brown- become Fully Alive with ourselves through ies. Other people might like to add M&Ms, or the value and love we find in a relationship chunks of fudge. When they are fresh out of with God. the oven, you might even add a topping of sprinkles or a drizzle of delicious salted cara- We’ve been looking at ways that we can build mel. Woah, I want some brownies now! our relationship with God and take it to a deeper level. Because this is how we’ll estab- So this topic of delicious, gooey, melty, fudgy lish a solid foundation for building a Fully brownies is just an example of how we Alive life. What did we talk about in the previ- develop a relationship with God. He made ous two weeks? Two weeks ago, the topic was us so incredibly unique that we can connect ‘Talking to God.’ Last week, we looked at the with Him in many ways outside of the main importance of ‘Reading the Bible.’ These are ingredients of prayer and Bible reading. In two of the most important aspects of build- fact, if all you did in your relationship with ing our relationship with God and establishes God was pray and read the Bible, you’d end the foundation for living life Fully Alive. But up with a final relationship that wasn’t every- talking to God through prayer and reading thing it could be. Kinda like trying to make the Bible alone are not everything that make brownies with just flour and chocolate. God up how we have a relationship with God. doesn’t just want daily devotions for 20 min- utes, He wants us to spend all of our days, Think about how you might make brown- weeks, months, years, and life with Him. ies. What ingredients would you need? Chocolate and flour, obviously! Because that Think about what you read in Phillipians 4:8 is what makes brownies, brownies, yah? But and James 1:7. We see that every good thing will chocolate and flour alone make brown- comes from God and that there is an almost ies? I hope not! What else will you need? For unlimited world of good things that we can
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAR 6 PAGE 22 do with God. You see, God created us with passions for things that we can enjoy and love. We can use our minds and our bodies to do good things for ourselves and for others. We can play, create, learn, work, and do all sorts of wonderful things. The sky is the limit for you! The bottom line is that when we do good things that we love, we are actually building a rela- tionship with God. Because that is exactly what God created you for. This is why we can praise God through music and art, for example. If you don’t think you’re musical or artistic, that’s okay. Some people connect with God through nature, some through biking, and others through building a craft, or taking care of a neighbor. Really, God created you to enjoy life and spend time with Him doing things that you love.
As we wrap up this week, remember that the main way that we have access to a relationship with God in a world full of sin is to spend time in prayer and Bible study. Brownies without chocolate and flour really couldn’t work. But a relationship with God is also found in our daily activities. In fact, some of the most vibrant ways we connect with God are through our pas- sions. God created us to live our lives fully alive, growing our relationship with Him through the things that we enjoy.
DISCUSS
1. What would your perfect day look like from beginning to end? 2. How do you know that God created you to enjoy good things? 3. How can doing the things that we love show other people God’s character? 4. Do you think that God can be a part of everything we do (sports, school, friendships, etc.)? Why?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE Write down something that you enjoy This week, take some time to bake brownies. As doing. Now, figure out 3 ways that it fits into you assemble the ingredients and follow the steps the categories of good things mentioned to make the gooey, tasty, fudgy brownies, remem- by Paul in Philippians 4:8. Finally, chal- ber that your relationship with God will really come lenge yourself to do ‘your thing’ every day together when you put together all of the pieces. This this week – thanking God for your ability to means prayer and Bible study, but also all of the good enjoy life every time you start your activity. things that you enjoy. After you’ve made the brown- ies, maybe you could deliver them to a person in your life who could use some uplifting! PRAY
God, thank you for creating me to enjoy NOTES fun and beautiful things. I know that you’ve ______given me a love and passion for: ______I want to remember that you are a part of ______that and that when I’m doing these things I ______can grow closer to you. Show me more ways ______I can enjoy life with you at the center of it all.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 23 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – BEING LOVED BY GOD Q1, W11
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read Romans 8:38-39.
“We love because he first loved us.” - 1 John 4:19 READ
Have you ever messed up and felt ashamed us that we love because God first loved us (1 and unworthy of love? When I was a kinder- John 4:19). gartner, I lied to my teachers on a field trip so that I could get money to buy slime in a But what about when we mess up? Or we Rainforest Cafe gift shop. Later, my parents do something wrong? Or feel far away from helped my teacher discover that I had lied. I God? In these cases, we aren’t being an got caught messing up and had to apologize example of love and we might feel ashamed, for what I did in front of the whole class. I felt embarrassed, and undeserving of God’s love. so bad and ashamed. Maybe you’ve messed These feelings are harmful because they up before, too. Or, you just have doubts start to change the way you feel about and about yourself or your relationship with God. value yourself. So understand, while there Or, you’re doing just fine but you wonder are always consequences for the mess-ups how God can really love everyone on earth so that you make in life, it will never change the much? This week, we’ll learn a bit more about way that God loves you. You see, Jesus went God’s love. Before we can live fully alive in to the cross to make sure that no mess-up any other relationship in our life, we need to we could ever make could possibly separate be fully alive in the relationship that we have us from God’s love. Because of Jesus, we are with ourselves. And, as we’ve talked about, shown God’s love (1 John 3:16) and we are letting God love us is key to this relationship. given another chance to know love, be loved, and be fully alive. Remember how in week two we discovered that the big idea about being Fully Alive is Being loved by God, especially in times when love? If you don’t remember, that’s okay. we feel like we don’t deserve it, can be hard There’s no quiz today! Love is essential to to understand. This is because our human being Fully Alive, but love doesn’t start with feelings get in the way. It’s important that you us as humans. Love starts with God, because accept that God loves you, no matter what! God is love. We learn to love because we Even if this means accepting it over and over receive love as a gift from God. The Bible tells again. God can love you with all his heart but
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAR 13 PAGE 24 if you don’t believe it, you won’t experience the joy of it. Do you see what this means? You have a part in being loved by God. You can choose to believe that God’s love for you is all that He says it is. When you do, you’ll build a foundation for a Fully Alive life that includes the very important pieces of loving and valuing yourself the way God loves and values you.
Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39
DISCUSS
1. What are 3 ways that you can see God’s love for you in your life? 2. What are 3 ways that you can see another person’s love for you in your life? 3. What can you do to show God love? 4. Are there any ways that you are pretending to love yourself, instead of actually loving yourself? 5. Are there any areas that you are lazy with love? 6. How can you believe God loves you, even when you’re not feeling it?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
The Tree of Strength. For this activity, you’ll need some Begin each day this week by accepting art supplies. At least, a blank paper and a pen. Get as God’s love for you. Every morning, say out creative as you’d like, using crayons, paints, or mark- loud “God loves me for who I am. Nothing ers! Draw a tree by tracing the outline of your forearm on earth can separate me from the love (trunk) through the end of your fingers (branches). of God!” To help you accomplish this chal- Your tree will have 5 branches and then include at lenge, write down a reminder on a sticky least 10 leaves (big enough to write inside). At the note and put it somewhere that you look base of the tree, write down Ephesians 3:17 – Jesus every morning (maybe the mirror in the feeds the roots of our life. On each branch and in the bathroom where you brush your teeth?)! leaves, write down things that you like about yourself and things that you view as your strengths. PRAY
God, it is so crazy how big your love is for NOTES ______me. Sometimes I find it hard to believe that ______you can love me the same all of the time. It ______is hard to feel your love when: ______but I choose to believe that your love for ______me never changes.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 25 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – LIVING ON EARTH Q1, W12
BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the story of cre- ation in Genesis 1 (the whole thing!).
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” - Genesis 1:1 READ
Are you a dog or a cat person? You’ve prob- Now, let’s look at ‘dominion.’ Having domin- ably heard this question before! It’s a pretty ion over the earth is a big responsibility. It common question to ask when talking about means that we rule over the earth some- pets, or maybe during icebreakers or for what similar to how a king or queen rules introductions. Personally, I think that you over a kingdom. A good ruler takes care of can enjoy both dogs and cats equally. Still, I their kingdom and makes sure everything have to say that cats have one thing that dogs is in order. But kings and queens don’t only don’t: a purr. Purring is perhaps the most rule, they also enjoy what the kingdom has to beautiful sound in the world. Every time I offer. Having dominion over the whole Earth hear a cat purr, I feel instantly relaxed and doesn’t only mean we take care of it (that’s as if everything in the world is just fine. And very important, too), but also that we enjoy you know what? A cat’s purring is not the only everything it offers. beautiful thing in the world, God created so God is the ruler of the Universe, and He cre- many different things for us to enjoy. ated us to use, take care of, and enjoy the Do you remember the three purposes for earth and everything in it. Sometimes, we humanity found in the creation story? If so, get busy using the earth or taking care of it take a minute to jot them down in your notes! and forget to enjoy it. We need to remember We remember that the third purpose that to take time to stop and smell the roses. We God gave to humans is to subdue the earth can also take time to be grateful for all of the and have dominion over all the creatures that opportunities that we have on the earth. God made. There are two big words in that Think about how big the world is and how last sentence… ‘subdue,’ and ‘dominion.’ Let’s diverse and unique each place is. There are see what those words mean. beaches that we can relax on and lakes we In this case, subdue simply means to use. can swim in. God has made mountains that Some of the ways that we use the earth are we can climb and forests that we can explore. to grow food and to create and invent new There are so many places for us to discover things. the beautiful details of what God designed.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAR 20 PAGE 26 In all of those areas, as we enjoy the goodness of God, we also get to subdue and have domin- ion. We can cook delicious meals. We can invent mighty machines. We can create delicate pieces of art. There are many things each one of us can enjoy in nature and things that we can do with the beauty God has made.
God gives us a desire to enjoy, create and care for the things in the earth, just like He does. Living Fully Alive means that we take joy in God’s creation while using and caring for it.. The next time you are feeling down, remember that God has created a beautiful world for you, all because He loves you.
DISCUSS
1. Are you a dog or cat person? Explain. 2. In your own words, explain what God meant by giving humans the purpose of ‘subduing the earth’. 3. In your own words, explain what you think God meant by giving humans the purpose of having ‘dominion over the earth’. 4. How might you care for the earth? In what ways can you enjoy the earth today? 5. What do you enjoy creating? What will it take to create something today?
WEEKLY CHALLENGE ACTIVITIES
This week, make a point to do something nice for the • Learn how to cook a new meal! earth in the community where you live. When you’re • Create something! done, write down how caring for the earth made you • Take a walk with the intention to admire feel. Share your feelings with your friends, family, or what God has created around you. classmates! Ideas: pick up trash on your street, turn off the lights every time you leave a room, plant a tree, or help your family to start recycling or composting. PRAY
NOTES Dear God, I am blown away by how awe- ______some our planet and everything in it really ______is. Every day, I can see new things to enjoy, ______to create, and to take care of. I’m thankful ______that you created an earth full of opportu- ______nity. I’m especially thankful for: ______This week, be with me as I do my part in ______subduing and having dominion over the ______earth.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 27 Because God Values Me,
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O I T 2 O I can Value Myself 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH SELF – CARING FOR YOURSELF Q1, W13
BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” READ - Proverbs 4:23
When was the last time you did something for (taking care of our relationship with God); yourself? Maybe you went for a walk, bought second, mentally (taking care of our minds/ your favorite snack, or spent the evening cre- emotions); and third, physically (taking care ating the perfect music playlist. If you’re any- of our bodies). Framing our health as the sum thing like me, it has been too long since I’ve of each of these 3 categories helps us on the done something special for myself. journey to become a healthy whole person.
In today’s society there is a term “self-care” We’ve already talked quite a bit about tak- that is used quite frequently. As Christians ing care of our relationship with God, and will this can sometimes be a challenging idea to continue throughout this series. So this week, grasp. We are called to care for one another, we’ll touch on mental health and physical but what we often forget is that it starts with health. caring for ourselves. Focusing on and caring Mental health is a hot topic these days. for ourselves might be seen as selfish in some Chances are you’ve heard about or experi- circles, but it is an important piece to being enced: anxiety, depression, low self esteem, able to show love. To be able to truly care and an eating disorder, or something else. Mental love people the way God intends, we need to health is a very important part of a “whole make sure we’re doing good. person” approach to living healthy, Fully Alive In the book of Proverbs, we learn that we lives. Physical and spiritual health help pro- should guard our hearts above all else mote healthy minds. However, we also live in because our heart is our lifesource. Bottom a world where mental health can be affected line: God’s Word tells us to take care of our- by things outside of our control. If you’re selves. This is simply saying that we have to struggling with anxiety or depression, we’d protect and care for ourselves to be able to encourage you to seek professional help. If live Fully Alive and fulfill our greatest story. you are in a crisis or need help working on your mental health, please connect with a There are three main areas to focus on as we trusted adult or reach out to us by emailing strive to care for ourselves. First, spiritually [email protected] or calling (303)282-3664.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAR 27 PAGE 28 Lastly, taking care of our physical health is an important part of living a Fully Alive life. When viewed through a Christian worldview, we understand that our bodies are a gift from God. Living a healthy life is a part of living a greater story for ourselves and for God. In 1 Corinthians, the author Paul compares our bodies to a temple where the Holy Spirit (God) lives. Not only does living a healthy life lead us to happiness, it also honors our creator God.
What does it mean to honor God with your body? Simply, take care of it! When done every day, a few simple things will greatly impact your physical health: drink water, eat healthy foods, eat fats and sweets in moderation, avoid harmful substances, get enough sleep, and stay active. When you come to care about yourself the way that God does, you’ll want to maintain your body and keep it safe. That is why we must first lay the foundation of loving and caring for ourselves before applying the practical steps like healthy eating and exercise. As mentioned earlier, our bodies are temples for the Holy Spirit. A temple is a place of worship, so we were made to worship. It is who we are. We worship God when we take care of ourselves spiritually, mentally, and physically!
DISCUSS
1. How are you doing? Really doing? 2. Spiritual, mental, physical. Which area is easiest for you to care for? Which is the hardest? 3. What were some things Jesus did to care for himself (spiritually, mentally, physically)? 4. Have you ever felt discouraged when trying to do something to take care of your body? Explain. 5. How might you feel okay caring for yourself even if you aren’t exactly where you want to be?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Copy the following into your notebook (once for each This week, choose a healthy, life-giving day of the week): activity over a bad habit or unhealthy activ- Spiritual Health 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ity in each of the 3 areas of health. Mental Health 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 For example: instead of watching another Physical Health 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 episode of that show on Netflix, read a chapter of the Bible (spiritual), instead of At the end of each day, circle the level that you’re feeling sorry for yourself for the things you feeling for each area (1 = feeling crummy, 10 = feeling don’t have, write down a list of the things fantastic). Take note of areas that are consistently 5 or you’re grateful for (mental), and instead of lower and talk to a trusted person about ways you can playing another hour of video games, take a improve your health! walk, do some pushups or some jump rop- ing (physical). PRAY
God, thank you for creating me to live a healthy, fully alive life! I know that sin has made everyone less healthy than you intended. Sometimes, I struggle to be healthy in these areas: ______. Thank you for not expecting me to be perfect in these areas and for promising to be with me no matter what. Give me strength to make healthy choices in my life! Amen.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 29 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W14 THE CALL TO LOVE OTHERS BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passages:
John 13:34, 1 John 4:11, and 1 Peter 4:8 READ
Being Fully Alive is really rooted in finding the people we are closer to. But that’s not our purpose. Once we establish our purpose what Jesus calls us to do. He calls us to love through the eyes of Jesus and see ourselves the way that he loves. That means we love the the way God sees us, joy and peace flow out people who love us back and we love those of us. When we walk in this confidence of that are hard to love, even our enemies. In God’s love for us, we are able to extend that John 13:34 Jesus gives us the command to love to others. You’ve heard it said, “You can’t love each other as He has loved us. give what you don’t have.” When we don’t have genuine love, joy, and peace from God, Being loved by God isn’t something that stops it is impossible to pass that on to the people with us - it overflows out of us, enabling us to around us. We end up feeling exhausted try- love others. If we are loved by God, we ought ing to uplift others because we are operating to love others. (1 John 4:11). Simply put, this from a place of lack rather than abundance. week explores our purpose to love every- God created us for community, healthy com- one, meaning anyone we come in contact munity. Healthy community comes from a with, from family, friends, acquaintances, place of abundance. Unhealthy community strangers, and even people who we might comes from a place of insecurity and com- consider “enemies.” Throughout this next petition. Once we understand our God given quarter, we’ll talk about how we can extend identities, we can live in a way that uplifts love to everyone around us. The good news others and points them to a fuller life. is that we give from what God gives us and God’s love never runs out. Think of your life like a jawbreaker. The very middle represents the people closest to you. Note: Loving everyone does not mean let- Who would that be? Immediate family? Best ting harmful people into your life. Everyone friends? The further out you go from the is on a journey and some people are not liv- center, you will find people who you are less ing out their God given identity. There are close with. It’s obviously much easier to love times when we can love from a distance.
RMCYOUTH WK OF APR 3 PAGE 30 “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11 ESV
DISCUSS
1. What’s the difference between loving someone and just being nice to them? 2. Who is someone in your life that loves you unconditionally? How can you tell? 3. On a scale of one to ten, how confident are you that God loves you fully and unconditionally? Why did you choose that number? 4. Why do you think it’s hard for some people to accept love? 5. What is the difference between saying you accept God’s love and living it out?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Gather different pieces of paper (magazines, old Get a jawbreaker and see if you can finish books, photos, etc) and cut them up into pieces. On a it this week. Remember that although each larger piece of paper or poster board, draw an outline layer is different, it’s all a part of one thing. of a heart. Glue or tape the various pieces of paper Just like different people may be closer to to create a mosaic heart to hang up in your room! us than others, but we can still love them Remember, loving others means loving all people. all fully.
NOTES ______PRAY ______God, I want to thank you that you love me ______fully and unconditionally. Help me to live ______that out and extend that love to others. ______Right now it’s really hard for me to love: ______But I know that I can see them the way you ______do. Give me your eyes to see and your love ______to share.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 31 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W15 THE FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE BIBLE
Start in the Bible!
Read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
READ
Last week, we kicked off the second quarter are your intimate friends. These are the peo- of our year-long study on being Fully Alive! ple that you’d call in a crisis, the ones who Quarter one was all about being Fully Alive know your true self, they are there for you and with God and with ourselves. This quarter, you’re there for them. Most people have 1 or we’ll be looking at how we take the Fully Alive 2 intimate friends. Now, add another layer to life that we begin to experience with God the circle. These are your close friends. You’re and then extend it in all of its abundance and comfortable around them and you have an glory to our Friends and Neighbors. easy, natural relationship and share similar interests. You might have 1 to 5 close friends. How is that jawbreaker that you picked up Next, a fourth layer includes people who are last week? Almost gone? Remember, our call simply friends. These people support and as children of God is to live Fully Alive with challenge you, they share in experiences all of the relationships we develop in our life! with you and you stay connected regularly to That is a lot of people! As we look at how we occasionally. You may have 1 or many friends. build and maintain a network of friendships, The fifth layer in your circle is acquaintances. it becomes clear that we don’t just have one Relationships in this level are primarily activ- big pile of friends who all mean the same ity or location based, like people at work, thing to us. Some friends are very close. school or in your neighborhood. Throughout Others may just be friends of a friend or a life, you’ll have many acquaintances. The final neighbor. Our network of friends and neigh- layer of the circle, furthest from the core, is bors is actually like a big, layered circle. Like the public. the jawbreaker from last week. As you go through life, the relationships in your circle of friendship will have a constant, slow At the center of the friendship circle is the movement between the circles. Neighbors self. That is you! We talked about your rela- may become friends, intimate friends may tionship with yourself last quarter. Now, move somewhere different and drift further imagine another circle going in a ring around out in the circle, or an acquaintance from the center. Inside of this ‘layer’ of the circle work may grow to be a close friend.
RMCYOUTH WK OF APR 10 PAGE 32 Our Bible text for this week, found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, helps us understand that the net- work of friends we find in our life is a God-created system that supports our ability to be Fully Alive. We are stronger, healthier, and happier when we start with a relationship with God, build confidence in ourselves, and then move forward in life together with friends!
DISCUSS
1. Why do you think God created us to have friends? 2. What Bible stories might be examples of the principle laid out in today’s verse (Eccl. 4:9)? 3. In what ways has your group of friends been there for you? How have you been there for them? 4. How have you experienced the friendship circle? 5. Can you expect friends to magically appear or do you expect to have to do some friendship work to develop your relationships?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Draw your friendship circle. Think about your own Complete the activity from this week’s les- personal network of relationships and place yourself, son first. Then, make it a goal to do some- your intimate friends, close friends, friends, acquain- thing nice for one person from each portion tances and the public into the appropriate place on of your friendship circle (including yourself the chart. and a person from the public)!
NOTES ______PRAY ______Hi God, it’s your son or daughter: ______Today, I want to be thankful for the beau- ______tiful ways you created the world. Thank ______you for knowing me, because I trust that ______even before I said ‘hi,’ you knew my name ______and who I am. And, thank you for creating a ______world of friendships. It makes me glad that ______I get to do life with other people!
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 33 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W16 BEING A GOOD FRIEND BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passages:
Proverbs 18:24 and Proverbs 17:17 READ
God created us for friendship. He created us 3. Stand up for their friends to laugh at inside jokes and share moments 4. Celebrate their friends’ when they experience and memories with each other. God cre- wins (or losses) and lift them up ated us to have good friends and to be good 5. Make their friends feel confident in who friends. So what does it look like to be a they are as children of God good friend? How can we tell the difference between being a fake friend and a real friend? No one is perfect, but good friends always try to be their best selves for others. The good Proverbs 18:24 says, “Some friends may ruin news is, even when we miss the mark, God you. But a real friend will be more loyal than is always making up the difference. When we a brother.” put God at the center of all of our friendships, we can lean on Him during the times when We’ve all experienced losing a friend, maybe we feel let down or feel like we may be letting even being ruined by a friend. It’s not a great others down ourselves. feeling. As followers of Jesus, it’s important for us to model what being a good friend PRAY looks like. That doesn’t mean that we are perfect friends all the time. It means that we Dear Jesus, thank you for creating me to do our best to love others the way that God be a good friend. When I think about my loves us. friendships, it reminds me that you made that happen. I am so thankful that I can Let’s talk about a few characteristics of good have a friendship with you. Today I want to friends. Good friends (among many other pray for my friend(s): things): ______1. Are intentional about building a deeper relationship Show me how I can be a better friend to them and show your love. 2. Look out for their friends’ feelings
RMCYOUTH WK OF APR 17 PAGE 34 “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 ESV
DISCUSS
1. What do you look for in a friendship? 2. Have you ever had a bad friend or a fake friend? How did it make you feel finding out they weren’t your real friend? 3. Is it okay to not be friends with someone? How can you still treat them with love and respect with- out letting them be a part of your close friend circle? 4. What are some ways that you can be a better friend today?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
On sticky notes or small pieces of paper, write down Every day, find a new way to be a good 10 things that you value in a friendship (loyalty, deep friend based on the Five Love Languages! conversations, laughter, kindness, etc.). Arrange then in order of importance to you. Ask a few of your friends Monday - Words of Affirmation - Write a to do the same and compare your lists. Remember, note to your friend sharing what you think everyone feels love and friendship in different ways. is special about them. When we know that is important to others, we are able to show up for them in the best way possible! Tuesday - Acts of Service - Do a chore that you know a friend doesn’t like very much so they don’t have to do that thing this week. NOTES Wednesday - Physical Touch - Give your ______friend a high five or ask if you can give them ______a hug. ______Thursday - Gifts - Bring your friend their ______favorite snack. ______Friday - Quality Time - Plan to hang out this ______weekend doing something that your friend ______loves (baking, art, shooting hoops, etc.).
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 35 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W17 ZACCHAEUS CASE STUDY PT. 1 BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following from the story of Zacchaeus:
Luke 19:2-3, & 7 READ
As we continue to explore the idea of living Now that we have the background, let’s Fully Alive with friends and neighbors we’re pause and see what is really going on with going to take an opportunity to dive deep into Zacchaues. Remember how Adam and Eve a Bible story. Over the next 4 weeks, we’ll take had lost their purpose in the Garden of Eden? on a Biblical case-study by reading, analyzing, Like them, Zacchaeus also lost his purpose. discussing, and learning from the story of He was trying to be Fully Alive in a way that Zacchaeus. went against God’s plan. Zacchaeus believed When we first catch-up with Zacchaeus, we that money would lead to a Fully Alive life. He come to understand that he was not a very valued money so much that he went as far as good friend or neighbor. In fact, he wasn’t cheating and lying to get it. Zacchaeus came living Fully Alive in a lot of ways. He was sad, to believe that he could substitute God’s alone, and seeking Jesus to help him be purpose and love with his own idea of what it Fully Alive again. Maybe you’ve heard that meant to be Fully Alive. Zacchaeus was “a wee little man.” While it may be true, there is a lot more to his story Sometimes, like Zacchaeus, we lose sight of than just being short. our God-given purpose and try substitut- Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector for the ing our own ideas of what being Fully Alive Romans. The Roman Empire had conquered looks like. We may try out different ways to Israel and placed the Jewish nation under feel happy (a new phone, another Instagram their rule. Like most tax collectors at the time, follower, putting people down instead of Zacchaeus was corrupt and lined his own building them up, a ‘guilty pleasure,’ the list pockets with money by cheating his friends could go on forever) only to eventually be left and neighbors on their taxes. By collecting disappointed and unsatisfied. Have you ever taxes, Zacchaeus had found a way to become tried being happy with something else other rich and live a luxurious lifestyle. Because of than God’s plan? Because we live with sin, we this, people didn’t like Zacchaeus very much all face our own ideas of what things might and treated him poorly.
RMCYOUTH WK OF APR 24 PAGE 36 bring us happiness. Sometimes, like Zacchaues, our own plans leave us sad, alone, and not feeling Fully Alive. The good news, God doesn’t leave us in that spot. He is always searching for us and longs to help us get back on track.
Next week, we’ll take on the next segment of the story of Zacchaeus and begin to see what happens when Jesus becomes a part of the story.
DISCUSS
1. Why do you think a lot of tax collectors became corrupt in Zacchaeus’ time? 2. Were the people wrong for treating Zacchaeus as an outsider? (see Luke 19 verses 3 and 7). 3. Was Zacchaeus being a very good friend or neighbor? How about the community – do you think they were treating Zacchaeus the way Jesus would expect? 4. In what ways do you think Zacchaeus’ plan differed from Jesus’ plan? 5. At this time, how might your plan and ideas for a Fully Alive life be different from Jesus’ plan for your life?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Make a list of the things in your life that you do because Have you heard of WWJD? It stands for you think they will lead you to a happy, Fully Alive life. “What Would Jesus Do” and it was all the Take some time to contemplate the items on the list. rage like, 10 years ago. This week, find an Do they fall in line with what you believe Jesus’ plan object that can be a reminder for you to for a Fully Alive life would include? As you make your constantly think about the way of Jesus. list, seek guidance from a trusted friend, family mem- Maybe it’s a trinket you keep in your pocket. ber, youth leader, or pastor. (My list might have … buy- Use this to help remember the way of Jesus ing a lift kit for my truck, applying to graduate school, with every decision you make. exercising, journaling, watching Brooklyn Nine-Nine on Peacock, and eating really, really good Thai food). PRAY
Jesus, thank you for coming to earth to show NOTES us the way to a Fully Alive life. I know that I ______might sometimes substitute my own ideas ______and plans in place of what you want for me. ______This week, I’ve been putting______, ______, and ______ahead of your plan for me. ______Thank you for always being there to seek ______me out and for accepting me where I am.
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W18 ZACCHAEUS CASE STUDY PT. 2 BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passage:
Luke 19:1-4 READ
Before we continue Zacchaeus’ story, let’s Zacchaeus was short? Well, the “wee little recap what we’ve learned about him so far. man” had no way of seeing over the crowd. We know that he was a chief tax collector and It seemed that Zacchaeus would miss Jesus. cheated his people to get rich. Of course, he was disliked by his people because of those What was Zacchaeus to do? No one was things. But Zacchaeus wasn’t happy. In fact, letting him through to Jesus. Once again, he desperately wanted to change, but he Zacchaeus was pushed to the sidelines. I couldn’t. Zacchaeus ’ story looks pretty bleak. wonder if at that moment Zacchaeus regret- ted becoming a tax collector. I wonder if he Zacchaeus lived in Jericho, an important regretted everytime he had cheated some- crossroads of that time. During the Passover one, everytime he had slipped a few coins Feast, Jericho became a bustling city as into his pocket for his own gain. I wonder if, caravans and people passed through on as he heard Jesus nearing and maybe even their way to Jerusalem for the feast. A man beginning to pass by, He felt abandoned as named Jesus was going to Jerusalem for the his hope for change dwindled. Passover, and word spread that he would pass through Jericho. Zacchaeus had heard Have you ever regretted a decision you’ve about Jesus, how he had healed people and made? Sometimes we do things thinking changed people’s lives. Jesus’ words had they are a good idea, but in the end they turn brought hope to Zacchaeus and he wanted out terrible. Zacchaeus thought he could be to see the man who offered abundant life. fully alive by being a tax collector and being Jericho was bustling with activity and every- rich. You already know that was one of those one wanted to see Jesus. The road was bad ideas. But after Zacchaeus messed crowded around Jesus, and of course no one up, he eventually realized that he needed was letting the much disliked tax collector Jesus. That’s exactly what we need to do too. Zacchaeus through. Do you remember how Everytime we start thinking of something to
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAY 1 PAGE 38 fulfill us other than God’s plan, we need to look back to Jesus. We may feel horrible and like there is no way to fix our mistake, but we need to remember that Jesus can and wants to fix our mistakes.
Zacchaeus wasn’t going to give up on meeting Jesus, and neither should we. When we mess up, let’s look to Jesus - He’s the only one who can make us fully alive once more.
DISCUSS
1. How excited are you to see Jesus one day? 2. Have you ever felt nervous about going to God with something wrong you did? 3. How short do you think Zacchaeus was? 4. What do you think made Zacchaeus want to see Jesus so badly? 5. How can Jesus really impact our lives, helping us to be Fully Alive, in 2021?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Make a tree out of whatever materials you have on Zacchaeus went all the way up in a tree hand. Maybe you have paper, so you’ll cut out a tree to see Jesus. We can see Jesus in so many and glue on some extra pieces to make branches. Or ways today. Through people, nature, situa- maybe you have a big cardboard box that you can tions. Each day write down one or two ways cut up and put together like a tree. Once your tree is you saw Jesus that day. made, create a Zacchaeus to stick at the top of the tree. Fun Twist: Make a rice krispies treat tree and use a sour patch kid as Zacchaeus .
NOTES PRAY
______God, it’s honestly kind of crazy that a grown ______man decided to climb a tree to see Jesus. ______I’m so thankful that I can see Jesus through ______so many different people and situations. ______This week I am thankful that I saw Jesus in: ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 39 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W19 ZACCHAEUS CASE STUDY PT. 3 BIBLE Start in the Bible! Read the following passage:
Luke 19:1-6
READ
I once had a pastor that played basketball because of the crowd. Jesus was so close to with me and my friends. We would play once Zacchaeus, and Zacchaeus was not going to a week and one day he told us the story of let this chance to meet Jesus go by. Zacchaeus the time he met Michael Jordan. Well, he ran ahead of the crowd and climbed up a didn’t quite meet him, but he came close. sycamore tree. Here, he could see above the Michael Jordan is one of the greatest bas- crowd. The crowd approached the tree and ketball players of all times, and my pastor Zacchaeus could see Jesus! Finally, he saw really loved basketball. He grew up in Brazil, the One who could change him, the One who and Micahel Jordan had come to his city. could truly help him be fully alive! Zacchaeus There was a large crowd around Jordan, and watched as Jesus passed under his tree, and everyone was pressing in towards him. As my to his amazement, Jesus stopped. pastor watched Jordan get closer and closer, he could just barely see him through the Maybe you know the rest of the story. But crowd. He knew there was no way he could remember, in that moment Zacchaeus didn’t meet Micahel Jordan, so when he passed by know the rest of the story. To him, it seems as if him he lunged forward and stretched out his he now has a chance to meet Jesus. He could hand. This was when security was a little less call out to Jesus, wave his arms and shout strict, and before the guards pushed David for Him to look up at him. If Zacchaeus could get Jesus’ attention, maybe Jesus would talk back, his left hand touched Micahel Jordan. to him and help him change. But Zacchaeus After our pastor told us that story we would doesn’t need to get Jesus’ attention - Jesus joke that he should be super good at basket- already knew Zacchaeus was there. In fact, ball. Jesus looked straight at Zacchaeus and said “Zacchaeus, come down now. I want to stay Do you remember that Zacchaeus was in at your house today.” And what did Zacchaeus a similar situation? Someone famous was do? He scrambled down that sycamore tree passing him by, and he couldn’t get to Him and went home with Jesus.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAY 8 PAGE 40 We don’t need to get Jesus attention, He is already looking for us. Just as Jesus came for Zacchaeus, Jesus came for us by giving His life for us on the cross so that we could be for- given of our mistakes and be fully alive once again. Jesus wants to be with us. The next time you feel as if you’ve messed up too bad for Jesus to love you, remember that He is already looking for you.
DISCUSS
1. What would you do if Jesus was going to come to your house? 2. Jesus was a busy guy. Why do you think he wanted to spend time with Zaccheus of all people? 3. How do you think Jesus knew who Zaccheus was? 4. Jesus physically saw Zaccheus, but he also saw Zaccheus for who he really was, a child of God. How do you think God sees you?
WEEKLY CHALLENGE ACTIVITY
Sometimes we only see people at face value. This When Jesus went to Zaccheus’ house, they means we only see what’s happening right in front of had a meal together. Prepare a meal with us. Have you ever seen someone act super rude and your youth group, friends, or family. Make then later realize that they were going through a bad a meal that you would want to share with situation no one knew about. This week try to see past Jesus and enjoy each other’s company! just the surface of the people you’re around.
NOTES PRAY ______Dear God, it’s crazy that you really see me, ______all of me. There are some things that I’m ______scared for people to see about me like: ______But I know that you see all of me and still ______love me fully.
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W20 ZACCHAEUS CASE STUDY PT. 4 BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passage as we wrap up the story of Zacchaeus:
Luke 19:9-10 READ
This week we will wrap up our story about Despite what the people said about Zacchaeus. His story is quite similar to ours Zacchaeus, he was becoming a new person. in a lot of ways. So far, we have learned three The crowd only saw a sinner, but Jesus did things from Zacchaeus about what it means not see Zacchaeus as a person defined by his to be Fully Alive. First, Zacchaeus substituted bad choices. Instead, Jesus saw a valuable his own idea for being Fully Alive instead of son. In fact, because of Jesus’ belief in him, God’s way and wound up lost, living with a let- Zacchaeus decided that he would change his cheating ways. He proclaimed to Jesus that down, sad life. But after a while, Zacchaeus he would give everyone he had cheated four realized that Jesus could help him change times the amount he had taken from them. so he does all he can to see Jesus. Finally, More than that, Zacchaeus promised that he even though Zacchaeus had messed up bad, would give half of everything he owned to Jesus was already looking for him. Put your- the poor! Can you imagine giving half of your self in Zacchaeus’ shoes and you’ll see just money and everything you own to those less how much we are like him. Now, let’s finish fortunate than you? That’s a big thing to do, the story. but Zacchaeus had become a new person. He was becoming Fully Alive. After people saw that Jesus was going to Zacchaeus’ house, they began to com- Zacchaeus couldn’t have changed by him- plain. Remember, most everyone disliked self. He wanted to change, but he knew that Zacchaeus for being a tax collector and he needed something bigger. That’s why cheating them. People said, “He has gone Zacchaeus, the “wee little man,” climbed a to be the guest of a sinner.” They were upset sycamore tree, to see Jesus! that Jesus was being friends with Zacchaeus. The crowd didn’t understand who Jesus was Like Zacchaeus, we can’t change ourselves. When we try to be Fully Alive a way apart and why He came to us.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAY 15 PAGE 42 from God’s way, we’re likely to get stuck or lost and end up sad and lonely. Jesus is looking for us because He loves us and wants to help us live Fully Alive. That’s what the crowd didn’t understand, that Jesus “came to seek and to save the lost.” As humans, we are lost without God. Jesus offers us a chance to be Fully Alive. You’ve seen how He changed Zacchaeus’ life. Will you let Him change yours?
DISCUSS
1. Do you feel like you identify with Zacchaues’ story? Why or why not? 2. How did Jesus correct the way that Zacchaeus was acting? Was it with a stern lecture, a time-out, a list of do’s and don’ts, or some other way? 3. Why was the “crowd” upset that Jesus went to Zacchaeus’ house? 4. How can you be more like Jesus and less like the “crowd”? 5. Giving to the poor is one way we can share a Fully Alive life with others. What are some other ways we can share the Fully Alive life with our friends and neighbors?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Create your own “Apples to Apples” or “What do Make it a point to spend time with Jesus this week you Meme” game. First, make a stack of cards (maybe, more than you usually do?). Let Jesus see with statements of people in situations where you, love you, and value you! A few ideas: read the sto- they could use help. Ex: a panhandler on a street ries of Jesus in the New Testament alone or with your corner, a classmate crying in the hall, or an older family, or, start watching the TV series “the Chosen” neighbor with a lawn full of leaves or a driveway which is available at https://studios.vidangel.com/ covered in snow. Then, make a set of cards with the-chosen. Make sure to get your parent’s permission verbs, reactions, or memes that you create, find, or if you need to make an account to watch this series. know about. Play the game with Apples to Apples rules by matching the best, Jesus-inspired Meme PRAY with the situation card that is drawn! Dear Jesus, thank you for seeking after me, for NOTES believing in me, and for loving me. I want to spend time with you. Help me to have a Fully ______Alive heart that wants to take care of other peo- ______ple. This week, I want to give some of what I have ______to help those in need. Help me to be generous ______by: ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 43 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W21 INTIMATE FRIENDSHIP BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following chapter:
Daniel 3 READ
Over the next few weeks, we are going to make sure everyone understood that he was take a closer look at the different levels of the one in control. He set up a big statue and the Friendship Circle. Do remember all of the made a plan to make everyone bow down to different levels of friendship from our lesson this statue when a song was played. He made back on week 15? Well, it starts at the core this announcement and said that whoever with your, ‘self’! Then, after your ‘self’ comes a didn’t bow down and worship the statue few intimate friends. People usually have 1 or when the music played would be thrown into 2 really close, intimate friends. a blazing furnace. Yikes.
The word intimate really means to be close You might already know where this story is or to really, deeply, know someone. Intimate going, but three people didn’t bow down friends are the ones that know the most about when the music played. Shadrach, Meschach, you, the good and the tough stuff. These are and Abednego stood sanding among a sea of the friends who you feel like you can com- people bowing and worshiping this statue. pletely be yourself around. They are the ones These three friends had a friendship that ran you tell your deepest secrets to because you deep. They held the same values and would know you can trust them. They are the friends stand with each other no matter what. who would walk into a fire with you. When it came time to be thrown in the fur- We see a friendship just like this in the book nace, they told the king, “The God we serve of Daniel. Three friends, Shadrach, Meschach, is able to save us from the furnace and your and Abednego were tight. They became power. If he does this, it is good. But even if extremely intimate friends after Jerusalem God doesn’t save us, we want you to know had been taken over by the Babylonians. we will not worship the statue that you set Maybe they were even super close before that up.” That must have taken a lot of courage to happened, but we definitely know that they say. As these three friends faced the blazing became close when facing trials together. furnace, I’m sure it gave them courage knowing Eventually the king of Bablyon decided to they weren’t going in alone.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAY 22 PAGE 44 “Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.” Daniel 3:28 ESV
DISCUSS
1. What do you think Shadrach, Meshcach, and Abednego’s friendship was like? 2. What are some other stories of deep friendships that we see in the Bible? 3. How does having intimate friendships show us more about God? 4. What sets someone apart as one of your closest friends? 5. How can you be a good, intimate friend for your closest friends?
WEEKLY CHALLENGE ACTIVITY
Deep friendships don’t just happen overnight. It Using sticky notes or small pieces of paper, takes time to connect with someone and build a write down different characteristics that you bond that will last. If you have a deep friendship, think are important to have in a deep friend- find time each day this week to spend with them ship. Post them all up on a wall to see what (eat lunch together, Facetime, go get ice cream, etc.). you and what others value. If you don’t have a super close friend yet, think about who you might want to connect more with. Set up a time to spend time with them this week. NOTES ______PRAY ______God, I want to thank you for showing me what real ______friendship looks like. You have put some awesome ______deep friendships in my life and I know that no mat- ______ter what happens or where I go, you will continue ______to put the right people in my path. Today I want to ______especially thank you for my friend(s): ______
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W22 CLOSE FRIENDSHIP BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following:
Mark 2:1-5
READ
A couple of weeks ago we talked about how him to see Jesus. They carried their friend all our circles of friends are kind of similar to a the way to the house where Jesus was, but jawbreaker. This week we are talking about our couldn’t get in because there were already close friends! Close friends are the second layer so many people around Jesus. So, they got a to your circle of friends. You’re comfortable bright idea. They decided to climb on top of around them and you have an easy, natural the roof and lower their friend in through a relationship and share similar interests. You hole right above Jesus! When Jesus saw the might have 1 to 5 close friends. Like we said faith of the paralyzed man’s close friends, He before, these couple of close friends may said him, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” change throughout your life, and that is okay! Soon after that, He told the man, “Stand up, As you grow and change, your close friends pick up your at, and go home!” may shift too. Because of the faith of the paralyzed man’s The Bible tells us a lot of stories where close friends, the man who couldn’t walk got to see friends are very important to a certain charac- Jesus and was able to walk again. Jesus rede- ter. One such story is when Jesus is just fined his identity from “lame” to “healed”, beginning His ministry, and He visits His and from “sinner” to “child”. He called the hometown of Capernum. Jesus began teaching man into a life that is lived Fully Alive both and many people began to gather around physically and on the inside. Jesus calls us to Him in the house where He was staying. In the same thing! He has redefined our identity fact, there were so many people both inside from “broken” to “healed” and from “sinner” the house and outside, that no one else could to “child”. Our close friends can sometimes get in! When word began to spread that be the ones who help us get to see Jesus Jesus had healed people, four close friends better, and encourage us in the identity that of a man who couldn’t walk decided to bring we have received through Jesus.
RMCYOUTH WK OF MAY 29 PAGE 46 “And they came, bringing to [Jesus] a paralytic carried by four men [friends].” Mark 2:3 ESV
DISCUSS
1. Who do you think are your close friends right now? 2. Why is having close friends important? 3. What are some ways that your close friends have helped you see Jesus better? 4. What are some ways that YOU can help your close friends see Jesus better? 5. Can you think of other Bible stories where a character has close friends that help them live Fully Alive?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Look through your bible and see if you can find more Look back at the characteristics of deep stories of close friends. Write down what characteris- friendships you wrote down last week. tics you see in the bible characters that are similar to Think about how the close friends who the ones that you wrote last week. Write down some have these characteristics have impacted ways that these people helped their friends experi- you. Then think of ways in which you can tell ence the love of Jesus better. them how much Jesus loves them and how Hint: Look at two of the main characters in the book much you appreciate them. of Ruth, and David’s best friend who happens to be the son of the king of Israel at the time. PRAY NOTES Jesus, thank you so much for the close ______friends that you have put in my life right ______now. Thank you for the ways that they have ______helped me know you better. I ask that you ______would help me when I talk to my close ______friends: ______and that your love would pour out of me and into them so that they can know You better.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 47 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W23 FRIENDSHIP BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passages:
Romans 12:9-10 and Galatians 5:22-23 READ
Friends. Friends are a crucial part of life with how all the instruments sound. I told and there’s many kinds of friends out there. my friends about it and they told me it was God created us with the intention of friend- silly and lame. It made me feel less than ship, whether we are introverted or extro- popular and not worthy to be friends with verted we all have longing for community other people. After all, who would want through friends. Friendship is so import- to be friends with someone who listens ant that countless stories and TV shows to lame music? I was putting my worth in have been made about friendship. I’m sure the hands of my friends rather than in the you’ve heard of or seen episodes of the TV hands of my God. This is when I learned show “Friends!” The theme song plays in that who I allow myself to be friends with my head just thinking about it. Friends are really matters. Was I going to keep putting supposed to be there for each other, right? myself in the company of people who make I’ll be there for you, (When the rain starts fun of me and put me down? to pour), I’ll be there for you, (‘Cause you’re there for me too). God tells us what true friends should look like. He says that friends are to be kind and When I was growing up I constantly looked genuine in their love, which even means for approval from others. I measured my being happy for someone who has dif- worth based on whether or not my friends ferent music tastes than you. The Bible liked me. This of course meant that if I did tells us that we will know people (includ- not get the approval from my friends then I ing ourselves and our friends) by the fruits believed I was not worth as much. I actually they produce. Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, have a quick story to share from when I was Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, younger. I love classical music. I didn’t grow Gentleness, and Self-Control. Sometimes up listening to it but when I got a phone I friends won’t bring any of the above into found classical music and just fell in love your life because they are not always living
RMCYOUTH WK OF JUN 5 PAGE 48 out their own identity in Christ. Sometimes being loving means taking a step back and rec- ognizing the fruits produced by your friends. Friends are there for you to help support and lift you up, not put you down. And the opposite of that is true as well, as a good friend, you should be there to support and lift up your friends, not put them down. Living Fully Alive with Jesus means both choosing good friends and being a good friend to others!
DISCUSS
1. How have your friends been treating you? Is it in accordance with the value God says you have? 2. How have you been treating your friends? Is it with the Fruits of the Spirit? 3. If answering either of the questions above left you unhappy with the answers you gave, how can you begin to make changes? (Seek help from a pastor, teacher, or family member if you have deeper concerns!) 4. What are the kind of friendships you want to have in the future? 5. What makes a good friendship stand out to you?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
For this activity you’ll need a few friends, colored con- Thank You Cards for Friends struction paper and tape, a glue stick, or a stapler. Cut Each day this week take a few minutes in the your paper into a 3 or 4 inch strip. Then, write or illus- morning and write one card for one friend. trate what you think is the most important quality in Write about a few things you are thankful for one or more of your friends. Once you’re all finished about this friend. It is up to you whether or with your papers, tape or glue the pieces together in a not you want to actually give it to them. chain and hang it in a prominent spot where you can refer back to the strength of your friendship through- out the year. PRAY
Dear Lord, I thank you for the amazing NOTES friendship opportunities you have given me already and for the amazing friendships you ______have planned for me in the future. Lord, if ______there are friends in my life who treat me ______poorly sometimes, I pray for your blessing ______on them to find a Fully Alive life with you. ______Please lead me to good friends and help ______me to be a good friend to others by: ______
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 49 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W24 AQUAINTANCES BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the following passages:
1 Corinthians 15:33 and Proverbs 13:20 READ
The year was 2019. The place was Glacier View might notice this in your school, on your sports Ranch Summer Camp. The phrase was “no cap.” team, or with your group of friends. When you All of the staff and most of the campers were spend a lot of time together, you begin to mimic using this phrase with a highly annoying regularity. each other’s behavior. Sometimes you are aware The year before, the phrase was “that’s dope.” as it’s happening, other times it happens with- Each year, you see, it seems that a new set of out you even noticing! The Bible talks about this slang words and terminology become popular. phenomenon in Proverbs 13, verse 20, where If you’re a young(er) reader of this devotional, it says “Whoever walks with the wise becomes you probably already know what these phrases wise, but the companion of fools will suffer mean. For the older folk who may need some harm.” clarification, “that’s dope,” means “that’s cool” (with emphasis). “No cap” is essentially a suffix As you go through life, you’ll notice that your that can be attached to any statement. It is used acquaintances may actually have a strong influ- to express that the preceding statement does not contain falsehoods of any kind. For exam- ence on you, including your thoughts, feelings, ple, “I stayed up too late on TikTok and now I’m behaviors, and actions. Because of this, it is gonna fail my linguistics quiz. No cap.” Or, “I’m important to keep in mind the people around really looking forward to dinner today. No cap!” you. Hanging with positive people will lift you up while those who make questionable decisions In the Summer Camp environment, a lot of will tear you down. While it may not always be acquaintances, people who just kinda know each possible to choose your acquaintances, like say, other, become close really fast. Because of this, your classmates, it is still important to be aware everyone starts to pick up on each other’s language of the influence they might be able to have on and mannerisms. One person says “that’s dope,” you. When you have a choice, choose to be with or “no cap” one time. Then, 2 people say it. Then people who lift you up. This is a part of the way 8 people. All of sudden, everyone’s saying it! You to a Fully Alive life!
RMCYOUTH WK OF JUN 12 PAGE 50 “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20 ESV
DISCUSS
1. Have you ever noticed that you were saying a certain word or phrase more often because it was popular in your group of acquaintances? What was that word or phrase? 2. How might you take positive action if you notice your behavior becoming more negative because of a group of people that you’re hanging with? 3. Read 1 Corinthians 15:33. Give an example of how you may have seen this concept play out this year? 4. Do you consider the influence friends and acquaintances might have on you?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Grab a set of watercolor paints, eyeball stickers, a jar of Take an inventory of the things you say, water, a brush or a pipette, a straw, and blank water- feel, and do throughout the week. Are you color paper. Stick 2 or 3 or 4 eyeballs on the paper. noticing a pattern in the things you think? Drop a few different color dolops of watercolor paints The words you speak? Or the feelings you in the center of your paper around the eyeballs. Grab feel? Trace these things back to the source. the straw and blow air at the paint on the paper. It Are your thoughts, words, feelings, and will mix colors and spread out across the paper. Let it actions coming from God? Or from a group dry and add arms, legs, or whatever you want to the of acquaintances? Or maybe a TV show or shapes. BAM! Watercolor monsters. the latest TikTok trend? Discussion: how might acquaintances (good or bad) influence your life. Compare and contrast with how PRAY the various colors of the watercolor paints mix. Dear God, help me to be a person who is wise in choosing the people in my life who NOTES I let have influence over me. Sometimes, I ______find myself becoming ______, ______, ______or______without really thinking about it. But I want to put you first. Thank you for being with me.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 51 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W25 WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR? PT 1. BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Read the story of the- Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37.
READ
One of the most popular stories from the After telling this story to the expert of the New Testament is the parable of the Good law, Jesus asks the man who was the neigh- Samaritan. This is especially true when bor and he rightly answers that it was the we’re talking about loving your neighbors. one who showed mercy. The one who An expert of the law (we might call them a showed mercy was the Samaritan. At this Pastor today) approaches Jesus and asks time, Samaritans were hated by pretty what it would take for him to have eternal much everyone so the fact that he was the life. Jesus tells him to love God and love his one who showed mercy was huge. The point neighbor as himself; the religious man then Jesus is trying to make here is that every- wants to be smart and asks “so who is my one is your neighbor and we are called to be neighbor?” Jesus answers by telling a story neighbors to EVERYONE, no matter what. about a man who gets beaten up and left for The Samaritan saw that someone was hurt- dead on the side of the road. A priest and ing and he stepped in and showed love to a Levite both pass by the man and do not him. He took care of his immediate needs stop to help. Keep in mind that both of those and got him to a place of safety. He didn’t individuals were well respected people in have to stop, he probably had somewhere society at that time. However, a Samaritan to be, but he chose to be a neighbor to passes by and it says that he took pity on someone who was in need. This is what we him. In fact, not only does he feel for this are called to do as well. man, he goes the extra mile and helps. The Samaritan bandaged the man’s wounds and If we think about the reality of what living poured oil and wine, put him on the don- out this call in our day in age really means key and took him to an inn to take care of it might feel more difficult. How do we him. The next day when he had to leave, the love and care for our immigrant neighbor? Samaritan paid the innkeeper to tend to the Our homeless neighbor? Our neighbor man as long as he needed. who believes a different way than we do?
RMCYOUTH WK OF JUN 19 PAGE 52 Our ______(you fill in the blank) neighbor. This is a deep discussion and peo- ple’s thoughts on the topic run deep. Remember, if we keep first in our heart that our pur- pose is rooted in love, then we can go about loving and offering care for everyone, even people who are different from you or who you might not like.
“[The man] said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.” Luke 10:37 ESV
DISCUSS
1. What might the story of the good Samaritan look like if it happened in 2021? 2. The Jews hated the Samaritans so much. Do we still see that kind of hatred today from people who claim to be connected to God? 3. Is it easy or difficult to love all people? Why or why not? 4. Is it possible to really love and care for all people the way God calls us to?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Write and act out a skit that would show the story Who do you struggle to love? This past year of the Good Samaritan today. Maybe at your school, it seems like many people struggle to love church, or in your neighborhood. people who think or believe differently Fun Idea: Ask your pastor if you can act out this skit for than they do. Find one or two people this church next week! week that think differently than you do about something. Make time for a conver- sation with them to get to know them bet- NOTES ter. Remember this isn’t a place to argue your beliefs, but to see them the way God ______sees them. ______PRAY ______God, when I read stories like this in the ______Bible, it’s easy to see what the right thing is ______to do. But in my everyday life, it’s trickier. I ______pray that you open my eyes to see people ______the way that you do. Help me to see past ______my own opinions and prejudices to love ______everyone in the way you do.
RMCYOUTH LIVE GREATER PAGE 53 Because I Am Loved,
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O I T 2 O I Can Love Others 0 V 2 1 D E LIVING FULLY ALIVE WITH FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS Q2, W26 WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR? PT 2. BIBLE
Start in the Bible! Re-read the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37.
READ
Last week, we talked about the story of the to accept people who are hurting and tend good Samaritan. We learned that because to their wounds. our purpose is rooted in love, we are called to be like the good Samaritan and take care We are made to care for one another phys- of those in need no matter what. There ically, spiritually and emotionally. Part of is another person in the story that we can being ready to care for others is taking care learn from – the Innkeeper. The Samaritan of yourself, which is why we learned about takes care of the injured person’s immedi- that during the first quarter of this devotional ate need by getting him to the Innkeeper series. Do you remember the “bottom line” and covering the expense of the care. This is for the first quarter? It was at the top of every extremely important and we can learn les- week’s devotional! “Because God values me, sons from the Samaritan. However there is I can value myself.” When we understand that also beauty in being like the Innkeeper and God values us, we can value ourselves and taking care of people’s long-term needs. then we can more fully see the value in others. The Innkeeper was asked by the Samaritan to take care of the man until he came back. Just like we have value, every person around God sometimes puts people in our lives who us has value because God created them. we are called to invest in for the long run. Seeing people as God’s creation changes There are some people that we are asked to how we treat them. Both the Samaritan take care of and continue tending to their and the Innkeeper saw the hurt man as God’s child and took care of him in their wounds until they are strong enough to take own unique way. At this stage in your life, care of themselves again. The Innkeeper you might not be able to pay for someone’s had a business to run and other guests to care or even have a lot of money to offer to worry about, he didn’t have to agree to care someone who is in need, but we believe that for the beaten man. But he did. We need to you 100% have your own unique ways that also model our lives after that. Being ready you can live out the call to be Fully Alive in
RMCYOUTH WK OF JUN 26 PAGE 54 caring for your neighbors. Our hope is that you spend some time thinking about your unique gifts and talents and then use them for the good of others!
“And the next day [The Good Samaritan] took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’” Luke 10:35 ESV
DISCUSS
1. What excuses do you think the innkeeper could have made to get out of taking care of the man? 2. Do you think it’s easier to care for someone’s immediate needs or long term needs? Why? 3. Have you or a family member ever taken care of someone for a long time? What was that like? 4. Do you think that every person has the same value? Why or why not? 5. What are some of the unique ways that you can care for others?
ACTIVITY WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Candy & Ice – For this activity, you’ll need some of How did you answer Discussion Question 5 your favorite candy and a few ice cubes. Start eating a in the section above? It’s time to put words piece of candy. Next, put the ice cube in your mouth into action! Write down the way(s) that you and hold it on your tongue for several minutes! Brrr! answered Question 5 and then go out and Right after the ice melts, eat another piece of candy! make them happen this week! We all need Discussion: How did the candy taste the first time? more good neighbors like you! How about after having the ice on your tongue? How might having a ‘cold’ (selfish) heart affect your ability to experience the sweetness of serving others? PRAY Dear God, remind me that sometimes you NOTES put me in situations so that I can help the people around me. Open my eyes to see ______the people that need to see your love. ______Remind me to value you others just like ______you value me. Bless me with: ______so that I can be a blessing to others!
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