Idea #2 - Group Resource: Greg Finke's "Joining Jesus on His Mission"

So you have a group that wants to meet OUT and IN the community? Now what? What material do you choose to lead your discussions? Try Greg Finke's Joining Jesus on His Mission. 

I'm currently leading 4 groups through this book (1 at our home, 1 at McDonald's, 1 at Starbucks, and 1 at Panera Bread). We are also working through a 50-day devotional that corresponds with the book and involves reading through the Book of Matthew (you can jump into this devotional, starting with Day One, anytime. The blog will remain active even after my groups have completed the 50 days). 

I've been doing small groups for over 20 years, and this book would go on my list of favorites discussed and, more importantly, lessons practically applied to our lives as disciples of Jesus. 

The weekly discussions have been amazing and mutually encouraging! Seeing how God is at work within the hearts and minds of my small group members has been a joy to witness! I'm seeing new and renewed excitement for bringing the love of Jesus and His good news to our communities. 

And if you are not in a group meeting OUT and IN the community...well...Greg even offers insight on how to get such a group launched. CHECK IT OUT! 



You can learn about Greg's ministry - Dwelling 1:14 - at http://www.dwelling114.org/. 

Story #3 - God Showing Up Week In, Week Out

I've got to say that I'm enjoying others contributing to this blog...the more the merrier! 

PLEASE SHARE YOUR GROUPS OUT STORIES WITH ME. You can share these through a comment below or email me. 

Below is a recent email sent from a fellow men's group member to our whole group. The writer and the group gave me permission to share. I've changes some names and details for anonymity's sake. I wonderful testimony for what can happen...how God makes things happen...when you do groups out. 

Enjoy!

Howdy Men of Coffee!

A number of unlikely events have surrounded our cord group lately, and I thought it worth taking a moment to acknowledge them. First off, I want to ensure that those who may have missed out on some of these are kept in the loop. But also, I'm a bit giddy thinking that God is starting to use us in unforeseen ways, so I'm embracing the mystery and trying to keep my eyes peeled for His purpose through our group.

Three Weeks Ago: Frank is another Starbucks regular you've probably seen reading his Bible during our group time. He's going through some health issues and asked us to pray for him. Three weeks ago, he was going to check in with us during our regular Friday morning group to let us know the latest doctor's evaluation and whether he would be returning to work – but he never showed up. I was concerned for him but didn't have an easy way to contact him. The following Monday, however, I randomly ran into him at Culver's (15 minutes away from our regular Starbucks). He was able to give me his status and close the loop. He also thanked our group for caring for him.

Two Weeks Ago: Two weeks ago, meeting at our Starbucks, 3 of us were discussing family drama. One of you mentioned a strained relationship with a relative. Minutes later, this relative showed up! I believe it was mentioned that you didn't even realize this this relative had moved into the area and that this was the first time you had spoken to him in a long time.

One Week Ago: Last Friday, I shared with the group that I wanted to start sharing my faith more in the workplace. I mentioned in particular that I wanted to reach out to my boss. That very day, I went with Craig to get bbq for lunch. The restaurant is 20 minutes away from my work, and who should show up but my boss! I didn't exactly profess my faith then and there, but I introduced my "church friend" Craig to him. I'm hoping that even just the mention of having a church life outside of work is the opening I need to share more with him.

So be encouraged this morning! I don't know what God has in store for us, but it seems to me that He has been present in our meetings and is trying to catch our attention for some purpose. It just sort of struck me this morning that it's been 3 weeks running now. Can't wait to see what He does at this week's meeting! :-)

See y'all soon!