What’s a Playlist?
A Playlist is a set of activities exploring a topic. The activities might include reading an article or scripture, listening to a podcast or sermon, watching a video or movie clip. Each month we’ll post three Playlists designed for Children, Youth, and Adults. All of us will explore the same topic, but the Playlists will be designed for each age group. You can work your way through the Playlists at your own pace throughout the month.
Remember you can always share your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of this page.
Epiphany Playlist
Invite
Katelyn Williamson, Director of Youth and Family Ministry
1/1/24
Introduction
As a young person, you might have heard someone say that God invites everyone to the table. But what does this actually mean? Well, if we use the metaphor of a table, we can think of it as a place where people come together to share food, stories, and laughter. In the same way, God invites us to come together and share in the love and grace that he offers us.
When we accept God’s invitation, we become part of his family – a family that is made up of people from all walks of life, races, and backgrounds. This means that we have a responsibility to extend God’s invitation to others. How can we do this? One way is by inviting our friends to church and youth group.
When we invite others to join us, we are helping them to experience the love and grace of God. It can be scary to invite someone to church or youth group, but it’s important to remember that we are not doing it alone. God is with us, and he wants us to share his love with others.
There are many ways that we can invite others to learn about the Lord. For example, we can invite our friends to watch past DCLC sermons with us, share Bible verses on social media, or even just talk to them about our own experiences with God. The important thing is that we are actively seeking to share God’s love with those around us.
Another great way to invite others to learn about the Lord is through acts of kindness. When we show love and compassion to those in need, we are demonstrating the heart of Jesus. This can be as simple as helping a neighbor with groceries, volunteering at a local charity, or offering a listening ear to someone who is going through a hard time. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact on someone’s life and can open doors to conversations about faith. Ultimately, our goal should be to reflect Christ’s love in all that we do and to share the good news of the gospel with those around us.
It’s important to remember that not everyone will accept our invitation, and that’s okay. We should never force someone to come to church or youth group if they don’t want to. Instead, we should continue to pray for them and show them God’s love in other ways.
In conclusion, God invites everyone to the table, and it’s our responsibility to extend that invitation to others. By inviting our friends to church and youth group, sharing our experiences with God, and showing others his love, we can help others to experience the joy and grace that comes from being part of God’s family. Let’s continue to invite others and share the love of Christ with those around us.
Listen
Pray
Lord, draw me close. Your Word promises when I draw close to You, You are there. I want my “drawing close” to be a permanent dwelling place. I am not alone because You are with me. I am not weak because Your strength is infused in me. I am not empty because I’m drinking daily from Your fullness. You are my dwelling place. And in You, I have shelter from every stormy circumstance and harsh reality. I’m not pretending the hard things don’t exist, but I am rejoicing in the fact that Your covering protects me and prevents those hard things from affecting me like they used to. You, the Most High, have the final say over me. You know me and love me intimately. And today I declare I will trust You in the midst of my pain. You are my everyday dwelling place, my saving grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
© 2023 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.
December Playlist
Rejoice
Katelyn Williamson, Director of Youth and Family Ministry
12/1/23
Introduction
The holiday season is upon us, and many people are busy shopping, wrapping gifts, and preparing for family gatherings. However, amidst all the hustle and bustle, it is important to remember the true meaning of the season and to take time to rejoice. Rejoicing is an important part of the Christian faith and is something that should be practiced, not only during the holidays but throughout the year.
Rejoicing can take many forms, from singing joyful hymns to spending time with loved ones. It is a way to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives and to find hope and peace in difficult times. During the holiday season, we can rejoice by reflecting on the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of love and compassion that he brought to the world. This can be done through attending church services, participating in charitable acts, or simply spending time with family and friends.
However, it is important to remember that rejoicing should not be limited to just one season. It is something that can be practiced every day, through acts of kindness, gratitude, and love towards ourselves and others. By cultivating a spirit of joy and gratitude, we can create a positive impact not only in our own lives, but in the lives of those around us. So this holiday season, let us take time to rejoice and let that spirit of joy and love carry us throughout the year ahead.
Rejoicing is a way of expressing joy and gratitude for all that God has done for us. It is a reminder that even in difficult times, we can find joy in the Lord and his promises. The Bible is full of verses that encourage us to rejoice, such as Philippians 4:4 which says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
When we rejoice, we are acknowledging God’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives. It is a powerful act of worship that can transform our hearts and minds. By focusing on the positive things in our lives, we can shift our perspective and find hope in the midst of trials.
Rejoicing is also contagious. When we share our joy with others, it can lift their spirits and bring hope to their lives as well. We never know who might be struggling and in need of encouragement.
So today, let us choose to rejoice in the Lord. Let us give thanks for all that he has done for us and trust in his promises for our future. And let us share our joy with those around us, spreading hope and light in a world that so often feels dark and hopeless.
During the holiday season, it can be easy to get caught up in the stress and busyness of it all and forget to take time to rejoice. However, there are many ways to incorporate rejoicing into your holiday traditions. For example, you could start each day by reading a Bible verse about rejoicing or by singing hymns of praise. You could also take time to reflect on all the blessings in your life and express gratitude for them.
Rejoicing is an important part of the Christian faith and should be practiced throughout the year, especially during the holiday season. By taking time to rejoice and express gratitude for all that God has done for us, we can find joy even in difficult times. So, as we celebrate this holiday season, let us remember to rejoice in the Lord and all his goodness.
Watch
Pray
Dear Lord, help me remember what a difference it makes when I make time with You a priority in my morning. Awaken me in body and spirit each day with a desire to meet with You and to hear You speak words of affirmation, assurance and wisdom over my heart as I prepare to go into my day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
November Playlist
Community
Katelyn Williamson, Director of Youth and Family Ministry
11/1/23
Introduction
Community is an essential component of our lives. It gives us a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity. In this playlist, we will explore the importance of community from a biblical perspective.
Created for Community
From the beginning, God created us to be in community. In Genesis 2:18, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” God recognized that Adam needed someone to share his life with. After creating Eve, God said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This shows that humans were created for community.
Encouragement and Support
Community provides encouragement and support. In Romans 12:15, we are told to “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” This passage reminds us that we need to be there for each other during both good times and bad. When we are struggling, we need people to come alongside us and lift us up.
Accountability
Community also provides accountability. In Proverbs 27:17, we are told, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” When we are part of a community, we have people who can hold us accountable and help us grow. They can challenge us and help us become better people.
Shared Experiences
Community allows us to share our experiences with others. In Acts 2:42-47, we see the early Christians sharing everything they had with each other. They ate together, worshiped together, and shared their possessions. This passage shows us that community is not just about being there for each other during difficult times, but it is also about sharing our lives with each other.
Diversity
Community brings together people from different backgrounds and experiences. In Galatians 3:28, we are told that in Christ, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This passage reminds us that we are all equal in the eyes of God. When we come together as a community, we can learn from each other and grow in our understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
Service
Community provides opportunities for service. In 1 Peter 4:10, we are told, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” When we are part of a community, we can use our gifts and talents to serve others. This can be a powerful way to make a difference in the world.
Unity
Community brings us together in unity. In Ephesians 4:3, we are told to “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” When we come together as a community, we can work towards common goals and make a difference in the world. We can be a force for good, bringing love, peace, and joy to those around us.
The Body of Christ
Finally, community is essential because we are the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, we are told that we are all part of the body of Christ, and each part is essential. We need each other to function properly. When we come together as a community, we can work together to fulfill God’s purposes for our lives.
Community is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. It provides encouragement, support, accountability, shared experiences, diversity, service, unity, and reminds us that we are all part of the body of Christ. Let us all strive to be part of a community that honors God and helps us become better people.
Listen
“Together”–Chris Tomlin featuring Russell Dickerson
“Build Your Church”–Elevation Worship & Maverick City
Thoughts
For many youth in the church, the church community plays a vital role in their lives. The church provides a sense of belonging, support, and guidance that is often difficult to find elsewhere. Being part of a church community can help young people develop a strong sense of identity and purpose, as well as foster meaningful relationships with others who share their values and beliefs.
One of the most important aspects of the church community for youth is the opportunity to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Through youth groups, retreats, and other activities, young people can build lasting relationships with others who understand their struggles and share their joys. These relationships can be a source of encouragement and support, helping young people navigate the challenges of adolescence and develop into confident, compassionate adults.
Additionally, the church community offers a wealth of resources and support for young people as they grow in their faith. From Bible studies to mentorship programs, there are many opportunities for youth to deepen their understanding of God’s love and develop their spiritual gifts. By participating in these programs and activities, young people can build a strong foundation of faith that will serve them throughout their lives.
In short, the church community plays a vital role in the lives of many young people. By providing a sense of belonging, support, and guidance, the church helps young people develop into confident, compassionate adults who are grounded in their faith.
Pray
We come before you today to lift up our church community and the youth who are a vital part of it. We thank you for the blessings that you have bestowed upon us and for the privilege of being a part of this community.
We pray that you will continue to guide our church leaders and give them wisdom as they lead and care for the youth. May they be encouraged and strengthened in their efforts to mentor and disciple the younger generation.
Lord, we also pray for the youth in our church. May they grow in their faith and relationship with you. Help them to find their place in this community and to use their talents and gifts to serve you and others.
We pray for unity within our church community, that we may be one in spirit and purpose. May we support and encourage one another as we seek to follow you.
Above all, we pray that your love will be evident in our church community and that we will be a shining light in our world. May we be known for our love, grace, and compassion.
We ask all these things in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
October Playlist
Blessings
Katelyn Williamson, Director of Youth and Family Ministry
10/1/23
Thoughts
When I think of Blessings, I think of my partner, my friends, and Desert Cross Youth. I had the blessing and privilege of serving alongside them this summer in Alamosa, CO. I also get to hang out and go through life with them every week. Blessings come from God. He is the source of all blessings, and He delights in blessing His children. In Deuteronomy 28, God promises to bless His people if they obey His commands and walk in His ways. In Psalm 84:11, we read that God “does not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly.” We can have confidence that God desires to bless us and that His blessings are for our good. Blessings are not always material possessions or financial gain. God certainly can and does bless us in those ways, but blessings can also come in the form of peace, joy, and contentment. In Philippians 4:7, the apostle Paul writes that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This peace is a tremendous blessing that can sustain us in difficult times. We can position ourselves to receive blessings through obedience and faithfulness. In Deuteronomy 28, God promises to bless His people if they obey His commands. Blessings remind us of God’s love and faithfulness. When we experience God’s blessings in our lives, we are reminded of His goodness and provision. We are reminded that He is a loving Father who desires to bless His children. God’s blessings, our hearts are filled with gratitude and praise, and we are drawn closer to Him.
Listen
Activity
Try this with a friend or parent:
1. Set a timer, for two minutes (or less) and tell them to begin.
2. Write down everything they are thankful for that can be described in two words or less.
3. When the timer goes off, count how many items they have.
4. Use your list to pray and thank God for the many blessings in your life
5. Keep your list somewhere you can see it everyday so you can add to it whenever you find another one of God’s blessings.
Discussion with a friend or parent:
1. What was the most surprising thing that someone was thankful for?
2. How did creating your list affect you?
3. Did you have more or less items than you thought you would have?
4. How did it make you feel when you discovered that others felt blessed for the same things as you?
5. Of all the things on your list, which is most significant for you?
Evening Prayer
You may make the sign of the cross.
I am a beloved child of God, marked with the cross of Christ forever. Come to me, all you that are weary . . . and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
Thank you, gracious God, for the gift of this coming night. Restore me with your right spirit.
Calm my mind. Quiet my heart.
Enfold me with your bountiful mercy.
Protect me from all harm,
that I sleep assured of the peace found in you alone.
I ask this in the name of Jesus, who gives us rest. Amen.
Source:
Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Copyright © 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Published by Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
September Playlist
Gather
Katelyn Williamson, Director of Youth and Family Ministry
9/1/23
Introduction
As a teenager, you might find yourself wondering why church gatherings are so important. Attending church might feel like a chore or just another obligation, but it’s so much more than that. As a Lutheran, gathering together with fellow believers is an integral part of our faith, and it can bring so much value to your spiritual journey.
One of the biggest benefits of gathering with other Lutherans is the sense of community it brings. Being surrounded by others who share your faith can help you feel less alone and more supported. You can share your struggles and your joys with others who understand where you’re coming from, and they can help you navigate the challenges of life with a strong foundation in God’s word.
Another important reason to gather is for the opportunity to learn and grow. By attending church services, Bible studies, and other gatherings, you can deepen your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God. You can ask questions, seek guidance, and learn from the experiences of others who have gone before you.
Finally, gathering with others can help you put your faith into action. Through service projects, mission trips, and other outreach opportunities, you can live out your faith by serving others and making a difference in the world. When you work together with other believers, you can accomplish so much more than you could on your own.
So, if you’re feeling hesitant about attending church gatherings, remember the value they can bring to your life. By joining together with others you can find community, deepen your faith, and make a positive impact on the world around you.
Read
Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Listen
Prayer
A prayer of Martin Luther
Behold, Lord, an empty vessel that needs to be filled.
My Lord, fill it. I am weak in the faith; strengthen me.
I am cold in love; warm me and make me fervent,
that my love may go out to my neighbor.
I do not have a strong and firm faith;
at times I doubt and am unable to trust you altogether.
O Lord, help me. Strengthen my faith and trust in you.
In you I have sealed the treasure of all I have.
I am poor; you are rich and came to be merciful to the poor.
I am a sinner; you are upright.
With me, there is an abundance of sin;
in you is the fullness of righteousness.
Therefore I will remain with you, of whom I can receive,
but to whom I may not give.
Amen.
Source:
Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Copyright © 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Published by Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
Desert Cross Faith Formation 