Connecting to Jesus, People and Purpose.
Pastor and author Rick Warren once commented, “To accomplish anything you must first have a mission.” Since the formation of The Ridge more than 25 years ago, we’ve been driven by a sense of mission. A mission that reflects the universal purpose of God for His church but also the unique local purpose He has for us here in central Iowa. Recently we introduced the updated mission statement of our church. It’s simple, (hopefully easy to remember!) yet comprehensive in its scope;
Connecting to Jesus, people, and purpose.
Over the next few weeks, we’re going to take some time to reflect and discuss the different aspects of this updated mission statement. While Pastor Mike will walk us through each part in a mini-sermon series, this devotional and our weekly Beyond the Sermon podcasts will serve to help us dig deeper into the identity and mission of The Ridge. Each week a new devotional will appear on this page corresponding to the sermon from the previous Sunday.
In it you’ll find a short scripture, a devotional reflection, and then some discussion questions for personal or group reflection.
I hope you find this short series encouraging and revitalizing as we look to take this next step into God’s purposes for us at The Ridge.
- Will Herron, Director of Discipleship
Connecting to Jesus, people, and purpose.
Over the next few weeks, we’re going to take some time to reflect and discuss the different aspects of this updated mission statement. While Pastor Mike will walk us through each part in a mini-sermon series, this devotional and our weekly Beyond the Sermon podcasts will serve to help us dig deeper into the identity and mission of The Ridge. Each week a new devotional will appear on this page corresponding to the sermon from the previous Sunday.
In it you’ll find a short scripture, a devotional reflection, and then some discussion questions for personal or group reflection.
I hope you find this short series encouraging and revitalizing as we look to take this next step into God’s purposes for us at The Ridge.
- Will Herron, Director of Discipleship
WEEK ONE: AUGUST 18TH | Connecting to Jesus
Devotional # 1 - Connecting to Jesus
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For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.
(Colossians 1:16)
Recently, I came across a Time magazine article that ranked 100 of the most influential figures in history. The list includes individuals such as Albert Einstein, Adolf Hitler and Abraham Lincoln. Each has impacted the world in very different ways. Yet there is one person who clearly stands above the rest. One person whose sphere of influence transcends century and culture and extends to all levels of human experience: Jesus of Nazareth.
Jesus’ validation of all people, His unparalleled character and His ongoing impact in the world justify not only His reputation but also the profession of billions who have followed Him. And yet, while we can’t deny the pivotal role Jesus has played in shifting the moral and humanitarian landscape of history, what truly sets Him apart lies in the primary purpose for which He came. Paul puts it succinctly in 1 Timothy 1:15
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
Many throughout history have contributed to the human race whether through the arts, humanitarian efforts or medical advances and yet what Jesus came to do, no other human could do. Humanity needed rescue from the outside. Someone to overcome our inherent sin problem and pave a way to forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Jesus did just that but at great cost. The Light of the World bore the darkness of our sin. He experienced the separation from the Father that we deserved. A moment unfathomable in its pain but ultimately liberating for those who accept His saving work on their behalf.
As we begin this short devotional series, take a few moments to exalt the Lord. Give thanks to your Creator, your example, your Savior, and consider how the Spirit might use you to draw others to Him today.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - Who was instrumental in your coming to[1] Jesus? What was it about them[2] that proved impactful in your faith journey?
Q - What are some ways people try to make their own way to God? Why do these ultimately fall short?
Q - What impact has Jesus had personally in your life? What kind of influence does Jesus hold in your life now?
Q - What do you think are some of the best ways to help guide others to Jesus in the modern day?
Download PDF
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.
(Colossians 1:16)
Recently, I came across a Time magazine article that ranked 100 of the most influential figures in history. The list includes individuals such as Albert Einstein, Adolf Hitler and Abraham Lincoln. Each has impacted the world in very different ways. Yet there is one person who clearly stands above the rest. One person whose sphere of influence transcends century and culture and extends to all levels of human experience: Jesus of Nazareth.
Jesus’ validation of all people, His unparalleled character and His ongoing impact in the world justify not only His reputation but also the profession of billions who have followed Him. And yet, while we can’t deny the pivotal role Jesus has played in shifting the moral and humanitarian landscape of history, what truly sets Him apart lies in the primary purpose for which He came. Paul puts it succinctly in 1 Timothy 1:15
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
Many throughout history have contributed to the human race whether through the arts, humanitarian efforts or medical advances and yet what Jesus came to do, no other human could do. Humanity needed rescue from the outside. Someone to overcome our inherent sin problem and pave a way to forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Jesus did just that but at great cost. The Light of the World bore the darkness of our sin. He experienced the separation from the Father that we deserved. A moment unfathomable in its pain but ultimately liberating for those who accept His saving work on their behalf.
As we begin this short devotional series, take a few moments to exalt the Lord. Give thanks to your Creator, your example, your Savior, and consider how the Spirit might use you to draw others to Him today.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - Who was instrumental in your coming to[1] Jesus? What was it about them[2] that proved impactful in your faith journey?
Q - What are some ways people try to make their own way to God? Why do these ultimately fall short?
Q - What impact has Jesus had personally in your life? What kind of influence does Jesus hold in your life now?
Q - What do you think are some of the best ways to help guide others to Jesus in the modern day?
WEEK TWO: AUGUST 25TH | Connecting to People
Devotional # 2 - Connecting to People
Download PDF
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing."
(Hebrews 10:24-25)
Between 2004 and 2011, the world witnessed a whirlwind of digital ingenuity. Social media giants including Facebook, Twitter (now X), Instagram and messaging apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat launched. The potential for instant connection with others was now literally within the hands of millions across the planet. No one need ever feel alone ever again. But fast forward to present day, and the data suggests our expectations may have been much too optimistic.
A recent survey discovered that 61% of Americans consider themselves lonely, with 40% acknowledging frequent feelings of intense loneliness. What does this tell us? For all the means of digital connection we have access to, online “connection” ultimately falls short. Don’t get me wrong, as someone who lives far from friends and family I’m grateful for the ability to connect digitally from the other side of the globe. But even I can’t deny that, particularly when it comes to Christian community, God has designed us for something different — something more. His desire is for us to engage in face-to-face, in-person relationships with others. And for good reason.
First, God can use relationship with others to highlight the true condition of our hearts. We are imperfect beings made in the image of a holy God. In practice this means the closer we draw together in community the more clearly we will experience one another’s Christ likeness and our brokenness. Christian community can be a context for mutual encouragement as we serve one another. But it can also become a space of learning and growing in light of our failures. Community can pose its challenges, but it can also be a crucible for change.
Second, God works through us as we pour into the lives of others. Like when someone receives a devastating health diagnosis and their community group rallies around him providing practical and spiritual support. Or when someone experiences loss of a loved one and God ministers comfort and peace to her through the gentle presence of others. Sharing life and faithfully showing up in ways like these gradually forges deep, ongoing connection.
And finally, the collective of Christ followers (the church) is God’s plan to revitalize the world. Jesus may not be present with us physically, but He continues to minister through us as His followers. As we each submit our whole lives to Him, we can collectively make a seismic impact on the condition of our workplaces, our schools and our neighborhoods.
At The Ridge we have and will continue to make connecting people a priority. When we share life together and minister to one another, God challenges us, changes us, and uses us for His purpose and His glory.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - What are some ways we can help others take the step into community with other followers of Jesus? Who might God be using you to invite in this way?
Q - What are some obstacles you’ve faced in forming authentic relationships with other followers of Jesus? What are some ways we can get past those challenges?
Q - Can you name a time where you have experienced deep community with other followers of Jesus? Share with your group/write it down and describe why it was/is such a meaningful space for you.
Q - What are some ways you can serve together as a group or with other friends? Brainstorm some ideas and make a plan to serve together in the coming weeks.
Download PDF
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing."
(Hebrews 10:24-25)
Between 2004 and 2011, the world witnessed a whirlwind of digital ingenuity. Social media giants including Facebook, Twitter (now X), Instagram and messaging apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat launched. The potential for instant connection with others was now literally within the hands of millions across the planet. No one need ever feel alone ever again. But fast forward to present day, and the data suggests our expectations may have been much too optimistic.
A recent survey discovered that 61% of Americans consider themselves lonely, with 40% acknowledging frequent feelings of intense loneliness. What does this tell us? For all the means of digital connection we have access to, online “connection” ultimately falls short. Don’t get me wrong, as someone who lives far from friends and family I’m grateful for the ability to connect digitally from the other side of the globe. But even I can’t deny that, particularly when it comes to Christian community, God has designed us for something different — something more. His desire is for us to engage in face-to-face, in-person relationships with others. And for good reason.
First, God can use relationship with others to highlight the true condition of our hearts. We are imperfect beings made in the image of a holy God. In practice this means the closer we draw together in community the more clearly we will experience one another’s Christ likeness and our brokenness. Christian community can be a context for mutual encouragement as we serve one another. But it can also become a space of learning and growing in light of our failures. Community can pose its challenges, but it can also be a crucible for change.
Second, God works through us as we pour into the lives of others. Like when someone receives a devastating health diagnosis and their community group rallies around him providing practical and spiritual support. Or when someone experiences loss of a loved one and God ministers comfort and peace to her through the gentle presence of others. Sharing life and faithfully showing up in ways like these gradually forges deep, ongoing connection.
And finally, the collective of Christ followers (the church) is God’s plan to revitalize the world. Jesus may not be present with us physically, but He continues to minister through us as His followers. As we each submit our whole lives to Him, we can collectively make a seismic impact on the condition of our workplaces, our schools and our neighborhoods.
At The Ridge we have and will continue to make connecting people a priority. When we share life together and minister to one another, God challenges us, changes us, and uses us for His purpose and His glory.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - What are some ways we can help others take the step into community with other followers of Jesus? Who might God be using you to invite in this way?
Q - What are some obstacles you’ve faced in forming authentic relationships with other followers of Jesus? What are some ways we can get past those challenges?
Q - Can you name a time where you have experienced deep community with other followers of Jesus? Share with your group/write it down and describe why it was/is such a meaningful space for you.
Q - What are some ways you can serve together as a group or with other friends? Brainstorm some ideas and make a plan to serve together in the coming weeks.
WEEK THREE: SEPTEMBER 8TH | Connecting to Purpose
Devotional # 3 - Connecting to Purpose
Download PDF
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
(Ephesians 2:10)
In the summer of 1896, a young man named Henry Ford changed the automobile industry forever with the successful trial run of his “quadricycle.” This small dual-geared vehicle would become a fore father to the modern-day vehicle. Yet, I can’t help but wonder what Henry’s friends made of his cutting-edge invention. Did they wonder: How does it function? Did they ask: What is its purpose? Truth is, the inventor, Henry himself, was the only one who could answer these questions. Why? Because the quadricycle was made by him.
We, too, have a creator. One who not only created us but created us with purpose. The apostle Paul tells us as much in Colossians 1:16.
“We are made by God and for God.”
The Bible teaches us that we are not left to our own instincts when it comes to discerning our purpose in life. God has given us both a general purpose (Ecclesiastes 12:13) and unique purposes (Ephesians 2:10) as individuals and as the church. As Pastor Mike said:
“God did not put you on this earth to just consume, He created you and put you on this earth to make a contribution.”
God has made each of us and gifted us with purpose. As a church we are committed to helping people find that purpose by identifying gifts, encouraging engagement, and cultivating a culture of service both in and outside the walls of The Ridge.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - Pastor Mike said, “If we don’t know our purpose, life is reduced to one big experiment, searching for something that will give us fulfillment.” Do you agree? What are some ways people tend to try and find their purpose outside of God?
Q - What would you say is your purpose in life? How did you discover it and what drives you to pursue it?
Q - Think about your place of work, study, your neighborhood, etc. What purpose might God have for you where He has placed you — influencing the lives of your coworkers, fellow students, neighbors? How might you play a role in fulfilling that purpose?
Q - Jesus used his authority and influence to benefit others. What authority /influence do you carry in your life? What would it look like if Jesus were in your position (e.g. authority or influence at work, at home, in social circles)?
Download PDF
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
(Ephesians 2:10)
In the summer of 1896, a young man named Henry Ford changed the automobile industry forever with the successful trial run of his “quadricycle.” This small dual-geared vehicle would become a fore father to the modern-day vehicle. Yet, I can’t help but wonder what Henry’s friends made of his cutting-edge invention. Did they wonder: How does it function? Did they ask: What is its purpose? Truth is, the inventor, Henry himself, was the only one who could answer these questions. Why? Because the quadricycle was made by him.
We, too, have a creator. One who not only created us but created us with purpose. The apostle Paul tells us as much in Colossians 1:16.
“We are made by God and for God.”
The Bible teaches us that we are not left to our own instincts when it comes to discerning our purpose in life. God has given us both a general purpose (Ecclesiastes 12:13) and unique purposes (Ephesians 2:10) as individuals and as the church. As Pastor Mike said:
“God did not put you on this earth to just consume, He created you and put you on this earth to make a contribution.”
God has made each of us and gifted us with purpose. As a church we are committed to helping people find that purpose by identifying gifts, encouraging engagement, and cultivating a culture of service both in and outside the walls of The Ridge.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Group Discussion:
Q - Pastor Mike said, “If we don’t know our purpose, life is reduced to one big experiment, searching for something that will give us fulfillment.” Do you agree? What are some ways people tend to try and find their purpose outside of God?
Q - What would you say is your purpose in life? How did you discover it and what drives you to pursue it?
Q - Think about your place of work, study, your neighborhood, etc. What purpose might God have for you where He has placed you — influencing the lives of your coworkers, fellow students, neighbors? How might you play a role in fulfilling that purpose?
Q - Jesus used his authority and influence to benefit others. What authority /influence do you carry in your life? What would it look like if Jesus were in your position (e.g. authority or influence at work, at home, in social circles)?