If you’ve been a Christian any length of time, you know that God has plenty to teach His kids. We always have more maturity to pursue, deeper understanding to obtain, and greater faithfulness to exercise regardless of how young or old we are. Over the last few months, God has taught us great things and has given us numerous opportunities to apply what we know. Here’s a glimpse into our current classroom.
BACK TO SCHOOL
The start of September means college students are back in town. In Superior, we have a space across from the university where we host a free dinner and Bible study on Monday nights. This semester has focused on stories with significance–Jesus’ parables. We examined texts such as the Prodigal Son and the Parable of the Sower, and learned not only the cultural context but how it applies to our lives, too.
In addition to our efforts in Superior, we’ve had a few tabling events at UMD. Our favorite annual event is giving away plant clippings in recycled jars. This year, we brought hundreds of plants and gave them all out before noon. On a separate occasion, we set up a temporary tattoo parlor for the first time. We were surprised by its popularity, and students were excited to show off their new (fake) ink. Although both of these were a ton of fun, what mattered was the opportunity to meet students and tell people about God. Whether we see immediate results or not, we trust that the Lord is at work on campus.
SPIRITUAL SUBJECTS
Pastor Justin is working his way through the book of Ephesians on Sunday mornings. The Apostle Paul began by writing about foundational truths (like what it means to be in Christ) and is now giving very practical exhortations like “walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.” We’ve learned about walking in love, walking in light, and walking in wisdom especially as it pertains to our roles as husbands, wives, and children.
On Wednesdays, we rotate different events such as small-group rewind discussions, men’s and women’s book studies, and teaching from the Old Testament. We started the book of Daniel a little over one year ago, and recently studied the final chapter. The book, including its narrative and prophecy, has been so rich it was somewhat sad to leave it–like saying goodbye to a friend. Thanks, Daniel, for your faithfulness that we are still learning from to this day.
In addition to being in the Word, we’ve also gotten out in the community. Chester Park Fall Fest is an annual event with tons of local food trucks and craft vendors. We have been fortunate to have our coffee trailer there the last number of years. This is a huge opportunity for us because we learn how to serve, we meet folks in the community, and we raise money for missions all at the same time. We’re not professionals–and some of us don’t even drink coffee–but we are available, and that’s what God can use.
In November, our Community Group (those over 35 or folks with kids) was given the opportunity to help a neighbor with projects around her home. We cleaned out the basement, filled a trailer with items headed to the dump, cleared out a cellar full of firewood, and removed an old deck. Though the homeowner was very appreciative of our help, we were the ones who were blessed because all of this work was fueled by being thankful for what Christ has done for us.
FIELD TRIPS
Our Young Adult Ministry (those 18-35) canoed the Brule River in September. It was one of those days with perfect weather and great friends that makes you wonder in awe, “What did I do to get here?” Then, you remember it wasn’t you, it was God working all along and you get back to paddling.
In addition to canoeing, our Young Adult group biked to Ely’s Peak, hiked with a table and tons of snacks, and set up a charcuterie board when we reached the top. Flannel and fall colors were out in full force. This was another one of those events where it appears like it was just for the fun of it. However, fellowship is more than just hanging out. It’s spending our lives with each other in a way that makes us comrades in battle.
After Ely’s Peak, the next event held by the Young Adults was a classic “Friends-giving”. There were multiple turkeys, many pies, lots of side dishes, and very little leftovers. There was even a turkey made out of fruit who didn’t look very turkey-like by the end of the night. After the meal, we all went for a hike along the St. Louis River to walk off all the carbs.
EXTRACURRICULARS
An interesting fact about our church is that we like spending time with each other even when it’s not required. This year, we’ve taken many walks via the Munger Trail to Burnett Dairy for ice cream. On one such occasion, we took a detour to play kickball.
In October, we got together for board games and junk food on Halloween. You can really tell a lot about a person based on what costume they choose and how competitive they are.
How many people does it take to cut down a Christmas tree? The answer is 30. Granted, getting a tree doesn’t take much, so this was an excuse to walk through some snowy woods, eat sugar cookies, and prepare for the upcoming holiday season. After we finished decorating the tree, we took a short walk around our neighborhood singing Jingle Bells. Neighborhood caroling really needs to make a comeback.
Day-to-day, the lessons we learn don’t feel like much. Growth is downright imperceptible. However, when we look back (six months, a year, two years or more) we are encouraged seeing the height marks moving up the wall. As a church, the majority of what we’ve put our hand to this Fall is nothing new. We’ve canoed the Brule River, played kickball, and served coffee at Chester Park countless times. What’s different, though, is us. We’re a little bit more mature than we were this time last year. And if we’re faithful, that’s how the story goes until we reach the end.
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” 2 Corinthians 3:18