We are currently in the middle of a fall sermon series titled, “THRIVE: Being the Church Where We Live, Work, and Play.” Missed the service? You can view a recording HERE.
Over the course of this sermon series, we’ll post Thrive Practices with each Sunday Recap. Our desire is that the message you hear on Sunday morning would serve as a launching pad. We don’t want you to forget the sermon after walking out of our doors. Our hope is to see transformation – that as a body we would take what we hear God saying and begin to live it. As you reflect on Pastor Brian’s message, ask yourself: what specific actions can I take to live into what I’m hearing?
Thrive Practices: Week 3
- Read Genesis 1-3 and Psalm 24 this week. Consider memorizing a few verses that stand out for you. Prayerfully reflect on what it means that the earth belongs to the Lord and your calling to be a faithful steward each day.
- Go for a long walk or spend time out in creation. Reflect on how “the heavens are telling the glory of God” (Ps. 19:1). What do you notice? How is creation praising God? Simply be present and let your soul be moved to awe and gratitude.
- Have a conversation with your spouse, family, or friends about one way you will commit to being a responsible steward of God’s world (e.g., recycle, use less waste, pick up trash in your neighborhood, take shorter showers, turn off lights, walk more, etc.).
- Practice your creativity this week. Write a poem, paint a picture, enjoy music, do woodwork, quilt or knit, cook or bake, build something. As you do, reflect on how God is the Creator and your own creative impulse as one made in God’s image.
- Be intentional about receiving something from someone this week. Ask for help. Get honest about your own needs without shame. Receive the gift with gratitude, knowing that to do so is an act of love towards the giver.
- Be intentional about giving this week (without expectation of reward or being paid back). Give a compliment. Give of your time, talent or resources. Be generous. Find joy in the act of giving.
As you engage in these practices, we want to hear from you. If you have a story to share, email us at trinityoc@gmail.com or post a story to our Facebook page. We want to share in the work that God is doing in your life and the lives of those around you.
We are also excited to offer visual sermon notes each week, courtesy of Elizabeth Heeg. Each Sunday, you can view her work in person outside of the sanctuary.
Announcements & Upcoming Events
Church-Wide Fall Festival: Mark your calendars for Sunday, Sept. 30 from 4-8pm and join us for a church-wide fall festival! Inflatables and yard games begin at 4, food starts at 5, and the firepit opens at 7. We encourage you to invite neighbors, coworkers, or friends to come with you. Trinity will provide meat, drinks, and s’mores supplies, but we ask that you bring a side dish to share and chairs or a blanket to sit on.
Wednesday Night Meal: Our first Wednesday night meal of the fall is on October 3 from 5:45 to 6:30. Join us in the fellowship hall for smoked pork, baked mac ‘n cheese, baked beans, applesauce, and cookies. Wednesday night meals will take place on the first Wednesday of the month this school year.
CenterPoint Worship: Join us at First Reformed Church in Sioux Center on Oct. 3 at 8pm for a time of prayer and worship with people across the Northwest Iowa region.