It’s all about love.
Caring matters. Jesus cared deeply for others. And he took time to rest too. That’s a good pattern for us. We’re called to look out for the people around us and to care for ourselves as well. This week, we’ll think about what it means to live with kindness and balance. Maybe that means helping someone, listening well, or slowing down when you’re tired. Loving others starts with knowing that we are loved too.
Mini-adventures
Pick one of these challenges to try out this week. As you do it, pay attention to the ways in which God might show up.
- Do something to care for someone else this week - maybe a small act of kindness, a message, or helping in a practical way.
- Do something to care for yourself - take a rest, go for a walk, or do something that brings you joy.
Get talking
Care begins with knowing that we are loved. The Bible reminds us that God’s love comes first - before anything we do. When we receive that love, it overflows into how we care for ourselves and for others.
1 John 4:7-19 - We love because God first loved us.
- Why do you think it’s important to remember that “we love because God first loved us”?
- How does knowing we are loved help us to love and care for others?
- What might love look like in practice - in your family, friendships, or community?
- How might God be inviting you to respond to this passage?
Get Inspired
- What do you notice in this artwork?
- How does it make you feel?
Church song
The Lord’s my shepherd (StF 481)
Secular song
Get deeper
There’s something special about showing love and care for others. It creates a connection that’s hard to put into words. We’re all unique individuals, yet we’re deeply connected to the people around us. You probably know what it feels like to be cared for, and to belong to a bigger community—at least sometimes. This week, we’re thinking about how this kind of love and care exists within God. God is not distant or solitary; God is deeply relational, existing in the loving relationship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And even more amazingly, God invites us to join in that relationship, to share in this love and to be part of God’s life. Welcome to the mysterious, amazing idea of the Holy Trinity.
- There are three persons of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Which one is hardest for you to connect with, and what could help make it more real or tangible?
- The Holy Spirit brings God’s presence and love into our lives. How do you notice that presence in your daily choices, and what might be getting in the way of experiencing it more fully?
- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in perfect relationship. What small step could you take this week to improve communication, unity, or support in your relationships?
Prayer
Loving God,
You are the Father who runs to meet us,
the Mother who embraces us with open arms.
Thank you for your boundless love and forgiveness,
even when we wander far from you.
Holy Spirit, guide us home.
Help us to return to you with open hearts,
and to celebrate when others do the same.
Teach us to love without judgment,
to forgive as we have been forgiven,
and to welcome all into your grace.
May we reflect your mercy in our lives,
and share the joy of your reign with everyone we meet.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.