“From the Hart” Devotional for August 22, 2024

“From Fun Facts to Faith Forming”
by Julie Hart, Director of Connectional Ministries

“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Philippians 2:1-2 (NIV)

On Sunday, we held our first newcomer orientation since Pastor Sharon arrived at Desert Spring. The room was a mix of familiar faces and new ones, all gathered to connect and learn more about the church and each other. We started with an icebreaker where everyone shared a fun fact about themselves, and we tried to match each fact with the person. In just a few minutes, we discovered fascinating tidbits: an 86-year-old kickboxer, a tornado chaser, and a dog shower, among others. These unique facts helped us to see beyond the surface and appreciate each person’s individuality.

This experience made me reflect on how each person has a story waiting to be shared. It’s easy to start with surface-level questions about work, birthplace, or residence. While these questions offer insights, asking deeper questions can reveal more about a person’s passions, culture, and experiences.

A powerful way to connect on a deeper level is by exploring faith stories. At Desert Spring, we often ask, “Where do you see God at work?” This question helps us discover how God is moving in our lives and in the world around us. It invites us to share and listen to the ways God influences our daily experiences, our joys, and our struggles.

Here are five questions to help deepen connections and explore faith stories:

1. Where do you see God at work in your life right now?
This question encourages sharing personal experiences of faith.

2. Can you tell me about a time when you felt especially close to God?
This invites reflection on moments of spiritual connection and significance.

3. How has your faith helped you through a challenging situation?
This question explores the role of faith in overcoming difficulties and finding strength.

4. What are some ways you experience God’s presence in your daily life?
This encourages discussion about everyday spiritual practices and experiences.

5. How do you see God working in the lives of those around you?
This broadens the conversation to include the impact of faith on the wider community and relationships.

Philippians 2:1-2 speaks to the unity and shared experiences that come from being one in Christ, which can inspire us to seek deeper connections with others based on our shared faith. This is a big part of our how our faith is formed. By asking questions, we open doors to meaningful conversations and discover the common threads that connect us through our shared faith. Let’s embrace the opportunity to learn from each other’s stories and see how God is at work in our lives.

Prayer:
God of love and divine connections. Thank You for the gift of connection and the opportunity to share our stories with one another. Help us to listen with open hearts and find the common threads of Your presence in our lives. Guide our conversations so that we may encourage and support each other in our faith journeys. Amen.