GET YOU THINKING… 

The theme for our mission trip this summer is “Influencer.” When you hear the word “influencer,” what comes to mind? How would you define the word “influence?”

Take a few moments to reflect on the following questions:

1. What or who influenced your decision to sign up for Week of Hope? Friends? Parents? Something you learned about? Something you heard at church? You went last year and had an amazing time? Something else? Take a moment to think about and write down your reasons.

2. What are you hoping will happen while you’re at Week of Hope? Make new friends? Develop new skills? Have fun? Grow spiritually? Become closer to Jesus? Have a great adventure? Something else? Reflect on your hopes and expectations.

Read the passage from Philippians 4:8-9:

REFLECTION

In this passage, Paul encourages us to take ownership of the things that influence our thoughts. He wants us to filter the “input” – wherever it originates – so that we hold onto things that are good and healthy and Christlike.

It is not an easy task today to filter our inputs. We are constantly bombarded with words and images that aren’t always positive and beneficial for our spiritual health.

Consider the following sources of “input” in your life on a regular basis: Video games, Music, Social media, Gossip/talk about other people, Parental feedback, Books, Movies etc.

These are all sources of both good and bad influence. The challenge is to use your filter. Choose wisely and be mindful of what you allow to influence you.

Read Proverbs 4:23: "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

As you reflect, think about the following:

1. The input in your life. Where are you taking in words and images every day?

2. How do you feel after spending time playing video games, listening to music, scrolling through social media?

3. Which outside influences are positive in your life? Which are negative?

Take a few minutes to write down your thoughts and feelings about the influences in your life. Consider how you can guard your heart and choose positive influences that help you grow spiritually and emotionally.

PRAYER

Conclude your reflection with a personal prayer.

Loving God, thank you for the world that you created. Sometimes, we get lost in it and forget to guard our hearts. Help us to use our filters and make choices about what kinds of words and images influence our thoughts and actions. We know that you want what is best for us. Thank you for loving us. Amen.

Made with ❤️ by Cross Roads Student Ministries
Adapted from Group Mission Trips

GET YOU THINKING… 

When you think about Week of Hope, how do you feel? Are you excited about the fun? Or are you stressed about it? Reflect on your feelings and concerns as you anticipate the trip.

Take a few moments to ponder the following questions:

1. Which of the following things are you worried about when you think about our mission trip this summer? Meeting new people, Having the energy and skills to do the work, Missing home, Being in a spiritual setting for a whole week – so much Jesus! Traveling with the groupSomething else?

2. How do you usually cope with worries about new experiences? What strategies help you feel more prepared and at ease?

Read Matthew 6:33-34

REFLECTION

In this passage, Jesus encourages us not to worry about the future. Instead, we should focus on seeking God's kingdom and righteousness, trusting that God will take care of our needs.

Consider how this message applies to your feelings about Week of Hope. It's normal to feel anxious about new experiences, but worrying doesn't change the future. Trust that God will be with you through it all, and remember that your leaders and friends will support you as well.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Reflect on the following:

1. Worry is normal. We are human, after all. We don’t know what the future holds.

2. A great way to help you through your worries is by talking. Talk to people who have gone on mission trips before. Find out what you can so that you feel more informed.

3. Ask questions – chances are your leaders and friends can answer whatever it is that you’re curious about. What are the sleeping rooms like? What about showers? Is the food OK?

4. Pray about your trip. Ask God to bring peace into your heart as you look forward to your departure. Turn your concerns over to God and lean into that little feeling of excitement that is living just beneath your worry.

Take a few minutes to write down your thoughts and feelings about the influences in your life. Consider how you can guard your heart and choose positive influences that help you grow spiritually and emotionally.

PRAYER

God, we are feeling so many things about our trip to New York. You know what’s in our hearts. Sometimes we worry so much it just makes us more anxious. Help us to find comfort knowing that you’re with us. Give us the courage to face the unknown. Hold us tight as we grow closer to you through every challenge. It’s going to be OK. Thanks for that, God. Amen

Made with ❤️ by Cross Roads Student Ministries
Adapted from Group Mission Trips

GET YOU THINKING… 

Light is good. It helps us see and find our way. In the same way, we are called to be lights in the world, helping others find their way and bringing goodness into their lives.

Take a few moments to ponder the following questions:

1. What is good about light?

2. How do you feel about being called the "light of the world" by Jesus? 

3. How can you let your light shine in your daily life and during Week of Hope?

Read Matthew 5:14-16

REFLECTION

In this passage, Jesus tells us that we are the light of the world. He wants us to let our light shine so that others can see our good deeds and glorify God. This means that each of us has the power to bring goodness into the world and make a positive impact on others.

Consider how you can let your light shine during Week of Hope. Remember that even small actions can have a big impact when they come from a place of love and kindness.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

1. God created you and placed a light within you that is good.

2. Sometimes, you may feel moody and not interested in shining your light – that’s normal, and that’s okay.

3. But don’t lose sight of your special light.

4. Don’t hide your light; sharing it with people is part of the power of God in the world.

5. One day this week, wake up early enough to watch the sunrise. Appreciate how the world slowly comes into view and thank God for everything.

Take a few minutes to write down your thoughts and feelings about being the light of the world. Consider how you can let your light shine and bring goodness into the lives of others

PRAYER

God of light, thank you for putting goodness in our hearts. When we find ourselves in darkness – when we’re confused, or lost, or angry, or hurt – show us the way back to your light and your love. Remind us that our light has power through you. Energize us to shine so that we can be part of something great and know that we are part of your amazing plan in the world. Amen

Made with ❤️ by Cross Roads Student Ministries

Adapted from Group Mission Trips

GET YOU THINKING… 

In life, we often encounter situations where people have different views and ways of doing things. This can create conflict but can also lead to positive change and new perspectives.

1. Do you consider yourself to be open-minded, or are you unlikely to change how you see the world?

2. Is there anything you do “upside down” when compared to most other people? (for example, you might start reading a magazine from the back, eat dessert before your main course, or complete a test from the last question to the first).

Read John 13:34-35

REFLECTION

Jesus challenged people to see and love others in a new way. This was revolutionary at the time. His teaching turned people’s perspectives upside down, encouraging them to love all people, including their enemies.

Consider how you can embody this teaching in your daily life and during Week of Hope. Remember that loving others is the hallmark of being a follower of Jesus.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Reflect on the following:

1. The arrival of Jesus transformed the world not only in his time but forever.

2. Jesus turned our ideas upside down – ideas about people, justice, equality, women, children, and God.

3. To a lot of people, it seems upside down to PAY MONEY to help people. We’re so used to working to MAKE MONEY. How would you explain your decision to go to Week of Hope if someone questioned it?

4. While you’re at Week of Hope, you may find yourself challenged to see things and people in a new way.

5. The people you meet will know you are a Jesus follower because of the way you love others. That’s what Week of Hope is all about.

Take a few minutes to write down your thoughts and feelings about loving others as Jesus loves us. Consider how you can show this love in your actions and interactions, especially during Week of Hope.

PRAYER

Loving God, thank you for turning our world upside down. We know we are called to love our neighbors. Open our hearts to what you have planned. Open our minds to new ideas. Open our arms so that we can embrace all people the way Jesus taught us. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve. May all we say and all we do, honor you. Amen

Made with ❤️ by Cross Roads Student Ministries

Adapted from Group Mission Trips