Ice breaker: Tell your favorite thing to do with free time.
Today we are going to look at the trunk of the tree.
What do you know about the trunk of a tree? (write down the
answers)
Discuss how these points about a trunk relate to us as a Christian:
1) At first trunks grow quickly, it is obvious to all. Then as they mature they always continue to grow but it is not as visible from the outside. We too often take giant steps as a new believer. We make obvious changes that others see. Then our growth seems to slow down or at times even feel like it has stopped. But, we are still growing, like the rings on a tree, it is just not always easy to see from the outside.
2) The trunk is the support for the rest of the tree. We must keep out faith strong; it is what supports the rest of our life. Faith is believing in what is unseen, being sure of what we hope for. Wavering faith is like a rotting tree trunk, slowly getting weaker.
Look up: Matt. 7: 24-25.
3) The trunk is a highway that transports what is needed to other parts of the tree—from roots to leaves and back. It is important for us to keep the highway open between our head and our heart and back again. Faith without knowledge is foolishness and faith built on emotions is dangerous. Faith stuck in our head doesn’t allow us to experience life change or to reach out to others. Without the heart involved we will hurt people with our facts.
4) Bark on a trunk is its protective layer. This layer protects the tree from pests and disease. We have a protective layer we are told to put on every day, it is the armor of God. Look up: Eph. 6:13.
5) The trunk is also the source of lumber. The variety of trees provides the beauty available when we want to build something. The differences are cherished. Often the more unique patterns
are formed out of injury or pain to the tree. Although we are all children of God, it is our differences that make us each perfect for a specific work. It is often those difficult times that teach us the greatest lessons that prepare us for helping others in their time of need. Look up: Hebrews 2:18.
6) Show a picture (you can draw one, it doesn’t have to be fancy) of a single tree standing in a field and another of a tree in the midst of a woods. Ask, which tree is in a better environment and why. The single tree is more vulnerable to lightening, wind, erosion and tipping over. Surrounded by other trees the tree is protected and helped by all the other trees. We too do best in community, with others to support us, help protect us and sharing solid ground together.
7) Read The Three Trees by Angela Elwell Hunt. Talk about the story, namely God’s plans for us are bigger than we can imagine. It is fine to dream, yet we must always trust God is moving and in control of our lives.
In alone time today read: Romans 12: 3-5 (papers with The Message version handed out too)
After 10-15 mins come back together and discuss how Romans 12
spoke to each individual and how it relates to the trunk.
Take prayer requests and pray for the person to the
left.