Community is the way of the people of God. Through Raising Micah Family Groups, we hope to build community. The average family may be a community in and of itself, but all too often families don't eat together or reflect on their days together or play together or talk about Jesus together. In addition, families seem to struggle coming together with other families. This is especially true in regards to families gathering with other families to talk about the real struggles and joys of raising our kids... and coming together to support one another in the endeavor not just to raise "good kids" or "successful kids" or even "well-adjusted kids," but to raise "God's kids." Our hope is to raise children who will do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.
Family Groups are a way of doing this. Each individual family is invited to come together around a monthly essay that is rooted in scripture and grounded in daily living. Families are asked to "try it on" for a month. In addition, individual families are invited to gather with other families once a month to talk about the essay, to listen and learn from one another, and to pray for each other. Then families can do a service or experiential project together... we believe that families need more opportunities to grow and serve together instead of separately.
What have Raising Micah Family Groups done? Well, they have talked about Jesus as living water and discussed that so many people are without water... and so families have carried buckets, done water walks, and raised money to support wells around the world. Families have expressed their frustration in sibling bickering and whining and have looked at the Jesus who showed us how to live simply and kindly... and so families have cleaned out their closets and garages and simplified through passing possessions to others. Families have addressed their comfort zones and their lack of getting to know people "outside of their zone" and have thought about how Jesus said we are one... and so families have chosen to worship and dine in settings different than their "norms." Families have talked about the healing of Jesus and how so many people are without access to doctors who help bring healing... and so families have volunteered at free health clinics. Families have read about the Creator God and how so many children suffer from "nature-deficit-disorder..." and so families have created gardens at schools. Families, together - moms, dads, preschoolers, elementary students, teens, aunts, uncles, grandparents - have gathered to learn and grow and love and serve.
If you would like help in starting a Raising Micah Family Group in your church or your neighborhood, please contact us at raisingmicah@mac.com or by calling 805-300-3456. We will be happy to talk to you, to support and encourage you, and to send you a packet of resources! Also we can help you find a Raising Micah Group in your area.
|
|
