Acts 16:6-10
(CEB)
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the regions of Phrygia and Galatia because the Holy Spirit kept them from speaking the word in the province of Asia. When they approached the province of Mysia, they tried to enter the province of Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus wouldn’t let them. Passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas instead. A vision of a man from Macedonia came to Paul during the night. He stood urging Paul, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” Immediately after he saw the vision, we prepared to leave for the province of Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.
SERVE:
As we can see from this week’s scripture, God can lead us all over the world to serve. In 1999, God led Crossroads to Uganda Africa to help provide education to our brothers and sisters there. Crossroads has provided many Ugandans with the opportunity to make life altering changes for a better future. This week we will be donating funds for a self-sustaining poultry project. These chickens will provide much needed protein in the form of eggs and meat for families supported by Crossroads.
Reflection:
Many times, when windows of opportunities close on us, we get frustrated. We have all experienced a situation when our plans were altered because of circumstance. We see this in the mission of the early church in this passage. They wanted to go to different places, but God kept them from going there because God had greater plans for the church.
General Reflection Questions:
- Since we will not be traveling to Uganda this year, some will be serving by supporting the poultry project. Plans have changed. How would we react differently if we saw changed plans as a new opportunity?
- With all of the uncertainty in the world right now, how are you using your time to serve those around you?
Reflection Questions for Families with Students:
- Doing a small chore around the house to earn money to contribute to the Poultry Project will go a long way to helping a community have fresh eggs. Have you ever considered that serving one person can actually serve many others?
- Even in Uganda, the COVID Crisis is affecting families and students. What might be some similar ways we are all affected?
Reflections for Families with Children:
- Change can be hard for us all to adapt, but especially for young children. Ask your kids about how their summer plans have changed and how that makes them feel.
- As a family, create a summer bucket list. Compare the activities to ways you would have enjoyed the summer prior to Covid. Even if they are more simplified, doesn't mean they are less fun for your family.
- Ask your kids if they would like to help raise money for the children in Uganda, by doing chores around the house, and serving in your home.
Prayer: God, often times when our plans get changed, we react with frustration and anger. Help us today to look at changes as an opportunity to share Your love with those around us. Give us eyes to see and hearts to understand Your plan for our lives. Help us to know that You won’t lead us anywhere You don’t want us. Amen.