Dear Trinity Family and Friends:

I am thrilled to share with you the theme for our upcoming Discovery Weekend, a special event where our Middle Schoolers, guided by our High Schoolers, dive deep into the journey of faith. This weekend is a unique opportunity for our youth to explore the paths walked by different figures in the Bible, the journey of Jesus, and reflect on their own life journeys.

This Sunday, as part of our Discovery Weekend, I have the honor of preaching the sermon entitled “Created for a Purpose” during our 9 am Traditional Service. Our Director of Youth Ministry, Amber Cloud, will preach in the 10:30 am Contemporary Service. These messages are not just for our youth but for our entire congregation. It serves as a powerful reminder that each one of us is intricately designed by God for a distinct and meaningful purpose.

My primary scripture for the sermon is Joshua 1:1-9 (CEB). In this passage, we find Joshua at the threshold of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. God’s words to Joshua are filled with encouragement and assurance: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” This powerful command reminds us that God equips us with strength and courage for the journeys we undertake, affirming that we are never alone.

Additionally, we will reflect on Ephesians 2:8-10 (CEB) (this is the primary scripture for the Contemporary Service). The Apostle Paul emphasizes that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our works, so that no one can boast. This passage focuses on the fact that our purpose is rooted in God’s grace and is woven into the very fabric of our being.

Here are three questions that can help guide conversations for this Sunday:

1. How do you see God’s call to be “strong and courageous” in your own life?
2. What does it mean to you that we are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works”?
3. Reflecting on your current journey, what are some “good works” you believe God has prepared specifically for you to do?

I invite each of you to join us and be a part of this Sunday. Let us come together to support our young people, to be inspired by their leadership, and to rediscover our own purposes in God’s plan for the world.

Blessings,

Pastor Dedric