5/10: Harvest, Hope & Creation
1. Worship
Icebreaker
Harvest reminds us that we’re connected — to the land, to food, and to each other. What’s one food you couldn’t live without — and what do you know (or not know!) about where it comes from?
Sung Worship Suggestions
All Creatures of Our God and King
God of Wonders
How Great Thou Art
Other Ways to Worship
Thanksgiving Exercise: Each person names one part of creation they’re especially grateful for (a place, a season, an animal, even a favourite meal). After sharing, hold a moment of silence together, offering those things back to God as worship.
2. Scripture
Read Together
Romans 8:18–25
Discussion Questions
Groaning & Glory
Paul talks about creation “groaning” like in childbirth. What images or feelings does that stir for you?
How do you see creation “groaning” today — in small, everyday ways as well as in global issues?
How might the promise of “future glory” shape the way we live now?
Interconnectedness
What does this passage teach us about how our discipleship is tied up with creation itself?
How does caring for creation become part of caring for each other?
Have you ever noticed how simple, faithful choices (gardening, recycling, walking instead of driving, eating locally, resting well) can connect you with God and others?
Hope & Patience
Paul speaks of “hope” and “waiting patiently.” What kind of patience does this involve?
How do we hold hope without giving in to despair when we see the brokenness of the world?
Where do you need God’s Spirit to strengthen your patience right now?
Application
What’s one small, practical step you could take this week that expresses care for creation as part of your discipleship?
Where are you tempted to feel demoralised about “big issues,” and how can you refocus on God’s sovereignty?
How can your Life Group encourage one another to live hopefully, not fearfully, in light of this passage?
3. Prayer
Give thanks for the goodness and abundance of creation.
Pray for God’s Spirit to renew both creation and our hearts.
Pray for each other to live with patience and hope, trusting in God’s sovereign care.
End with a shared prayer of commitment, e.g., “Lord, help us to live as people of hope, joining in your care for creation with trust and joy.”