As groups begin to meet, even on a limited basis, folks will be hungry for the fellowship of small groups. Here are two resources I would suggest that would help folks through these uncertain times. Multiple copies of each are available.
Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times, by Adam Hamilton.
Jesus said, “Do not be afraid.”
For anyone struggling with fear, worry, or anxiety, or who wonders how families and communities can live as peacemakers in troubled times, Unafraid offers an informed and inspiring message full of practical solutions.
In this five-week study based on his book, Adam Hamilton explores the worries and fears that all of us experience. Your small group can learn to identify fears and discover practical steps for overcoming them, all in the light of Scripture.
This DVD contains five videos featuring Adam Hamilton, based on the book’s five parts. Each video begins with Hamilton presenting and discussing his ideas in a round-table format, then closes with him interviewing a subject-area expert. All video sessions are closed captioned.
Session titles are:
1. Understanding and Countering Fear (16:47)
2. Crime, Race, Terrorism, and Politics (16:06)
3. Failure, Disappointing Others, Insignificance, and Loneliness (17:59)
4. Apocalypse, Change, Missing Out, and Finances (15:09)
5. Aging, Illness, Dying, and Fear of the Lord (15:22)
Includes DVD, leader guide, and hardcover book.
Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World, by Max Lucado
Do you feel weighed down with worry? Does the uncertainty and chaos of life keep you up at night? Are irrational fears your constant companion? Could you use some calm?
In this five-session video Bible study, Max Lucado explores God’s promises in Philippians 4:4-8 and shows that while anxiety is part of life, it doesn’t have to dominate life. As you follow God’s prescription for worry -- celebrate his goodness, ask for help, leave your concerns with him, meditate on good things -- you will experience his peace. You can stop letting anxiety rule your day and find true calm and contentment in Christ.
Sessions include:
1. Rejoice in the Lord Always (21:00)
2. Let Your Gentleness Be Evident to All (20:00)
3. Present Your Requests to God (21:00)
4. The Peace of God Will Guard Your Heart (21:30)
5. Meditate on These Things (21:30)
Includes DVD, study guide (with additional resources for group leaders in the back), and hardcover book.
God and the Pandemic: A Christian Reflection on the Coronavirus and its Aftermath, by N. T. Wright. This 76-page book looks at our current situation through the lens of the Old Testament, Jesus and the Gospels, and the New Testament.
There are also many other resources in Discovery Place on a variety of topics. Consult our on-line catalog at www.discovery-place.org to search by author or title, or do an advanced search by subject using the drop-down box.
Discovery Place is open on a limited basis, with no set office hours. However, until further notice we remain closed to walk-in visitors. You may place an order through the on-line catalog on our website, www.discovery-place.org, by calling 717-766-7968 (voicemails will send me an email), or by emailing me directly at discovery@susumc.org. I will respond to your request as soon as I’m able.
I hope to hear from you soon! Stay safe and healthy!
Serving Christ with you,
Joni Robison
