Summer is a natural time of the year to pull back and get in some "me time". We are so busy with life that scheduling some down time to recharge our batteries becomes a necessary part of our summer routine. I do hope you have been able to do that or will do it soon. As you get back into your routine, mid August, use that recharged energy to give back to others. Make it a "Christmas in August" Bible ...
Use balloons to distribute questions about the upcoming year to your group members.
Tami Rudkin
Write the following incomplete sentences on small slips of paper and place them in balloons. (Duplicate as needed to make sure there is one per person.) Put the inflated balloons in the middle of your circle. On the count of three have your group jump up and pop a balloon. They are to complete the sentences in their balloon.
Participate in an activity that encourages thankfulness instead of materialism.
Tami Rudkin
Things you will need:
5-7 pieces of play money for each person (paper money or coins)
Fine-tipped markers
Small chest or basket
As people are getting seated, hand out 5-7 pieces of play money to each person. Explain to them that we are going to be thinking of our treasures, and the play money is symbolic of those riches. Ask them to take a few minutes to ponder their riches and to write a different ...
Group members list five things that give meaning to their lives.
Tami Rudkin
Give each person an index card and have them write 5 words that would complete this statement: ____________ give meaning to my life. For example: "My children give meaning to my life". Or, "My job gives meaning to my life".
Then have everyone share their words with the group.
Smores are those yummy campfire snacks that are made of 3 simple ingredients: graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. What are the 3 ingredients that make your life so yummy (good)? For some fun, bring the ingredients and use the stove top to "toast" your smores.
Learn why it's so important to record God's blessings in a tangible way.
Sue Skalicky
My oldest daughter recently returned from a mission trip to Brazil. For five days, she and 30 other volunteers, both American and Brazilian, offered free medical care and shared the unconditional love of God with natives in each village. She met new friends and discovered a new part of her heart. The days flew by quickly, each day filled with new experiences and heart-wrenching reality. As she gently ...
Lead your group in worship through the story behind a beloved hymn.
Tami Rudkin
Leader:
Read the following and then if possible play the song Tis So Sweet and sing along (be sure everyone has the lyrics). If you can't sing along, read the lyrics.
After singing or reading ask your group to share ways that they are choosing to trust Jesus for something specifically or ways that they have had to choose to trust Him in the past.
After you sense everyone has shared take a minute to give praise to God by praying together. Have people, popcorn style, thank God for taking care of their specific and general needs.
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