The connection between Newness and Dependence

There were lots of NEW things we celebrated and talked about this weekend at Christ Community! This morning it got me thinking about the connection between newness and dependence.

New babies are completely dependent on caregivers.

When we go to a new school we're dependent on others to show us the way.

When we go to a new restaurant we're dependent upon our waiter or waitress to help us navigate the experience.

Anytime we try or start something new, we're dependent on God and others to get us to "the other side." 

With that thought lingering, here's 5 notes that are top of mind this Monday..

Raya's new life in Christ!

It was encouraging to learn more of Raya's story this week! And to watch her navigate Scripture that she's been reading and learning for some time! Raya's new life in Christ makes her dependent on Jesus and the body of believers she's a part of to continue to grow her understanding of the faith she's placed in Jesus. Can't wait to see how the Lord asks her to join Him in going out to make disciples!

New Members: Henry, Scott, Emily, Philip & Chelsea

I often tell people that one of the greatest joys of my job is getting to learn people's stories. This group of new members is no different! Hearing how God has worked in their lives throughout their lives is not only exciting, but also gives me a ton of hope about how Jesus wants to send them on mission through Christ Community.

Of note, the majority of these new members were already connected to a group here at Christ Community. Leaders - and those God is calling to lead - noticing people and inviting them into your lives matter. New people are dependent on us to help connect them to the body!

New Dresses

This is one of those things that didn't make the sermon, but it grabbed my heart! In the midst of thinking about how God makes us new in the resurrection, this video of first-time incarcerated Moms being reunited with their children while wearing new dresses had me swimming in tears this week. It's a beautiful picture of the gospel! Despite our guilt as sinners, Jesus clothes us in his righteousness and restores us with the family we were always made to be a part of: the family of God.

Watch with tissues. And then worship the God who makes us new!

Devotionals for Daily Dependence

I always struggle with a general call/challenge to people to spend time with God in His Word daily. Not because I don't think it's good or important, but because I often want to say so much more about it!

If you've not developed a daily routine with the Lord, I understand that it can be really hard and intimdating to know how or where to jump in. And while I'll always push you to "just start," I thought it might be helpful to include some devotionals that have been an encouragement to my family and I throughout the years. These can be helpful to get routines started, get back into it after a season of being away from time with the Lord, or to simply help get you through a "dry" season where you're struggling to connect with God. Let me recommend 3 + 1 we used together as a family that we loved. Each is linked to Amazon. These aren't affiliate links.. just an easy way to share. Most of these are available in other places as well!

New Morning Mercies (Paul David Tripp)

My Utmost for His Highest (Oswald Chambers)

Experiencing the Trinity (Joe Thorn)

How Great is Our God: 100 Indescribable devotions for kids about God and Science (Louie Giglio)

Desperation

Lastly, I've been thinking about desperation a lot lately. As a follower of Jesus, what is it that I'm really desperate for? I'm coming to realize that it's desperation that leads to dependence on God - both in prayer and in action. When I wrongly believe I can provide something for myself, I often miss out on what God has for me.

As I think about that in my own life, it also brings it to the forefront in my leading at CCC. What are we desperate for CCC? What is it that we really want to see God do in Shelbyville and to the ends of the earth? What is it that we are desperate for Jesus to do in us?

We are His champions, but oh, how we need you Jesus. You give us the victory.