Focus 2 (of 4)-Carousel of Enjoyment

Trends and fads and that whole phenomenon where people run after the next thing/activity/celebrity/distraction that promises to satisfy them are the inevitable result of our misunderstanding recreation. It’s telling, though, that every new trend only lasts for a little while - and that’s all they can do. Despite their prevalence, these distractions are short lived both now and in the long run.

Chat about this ice breaker question to get started.
Is there a fad or trend that you’ve been sucked into at some point that you’re (maybe a little) embarrassed about now that time has passed?

See what this Spotlight—and series—is focused on.
Tap on the words "Focus 2" in the image below to read this Spotlight's summary.

Let's talk about fads.

Push play when you’re ready to begin today's Spotlight. (And welcome, by the way! It’s great that you’re here!)

Let's say a prayer together as we dive into this Spotlight.
Lord,
You invented enjoyable things. Help us to receive them with gratitude while remembering that there is nothing about them that can satisfy us in a truly lasting way. As you’ve given us things for short term enjoyment, draw us also toward your everlasting love.
Amen.

Welcome Perspective
We can't accept that nothing satisfies-so we chase everything.

Find a way off the carousel by watching this video.
Also, there’s bees.

Worship Perspective
When you're exhausted by seeking the next best thing, God hides in stillness.

Talk through this to see how God helps you off the carousel.
Navigate through the presentation by using the buttons and arrows in the frame below.

Learn Perspective
God has given you the ultimate anti-trend: He calls it Sabbath.

Let’s talk about talking about Illume.

How do you explain what Illume is and does to someone who is learning about it for the first time - through a conversation with you?
 
To start exploring this, think about the various things Illume will be offering specifically to the Ravenna/Bryant neighborhoods: 

• Illume Church
• Illume Venue
• Illume Office
• Illume Coffee (kind of) 

Articulate a definition for each of these using this formula:
Illume ___________ (insert church/venue/office/coffee)
helps people who want to __________ 
by offering __________. 

Once you’ve done that, discuss this: 

• What is the mission behind these versions of Illume? That is, can you speak to ways that they come out of the same goal, spirit, or desire? 

Feel free to submit a prayer request by filling out the below form.
(If you choose to make your request public, you'll see it display in the Current at the end of the Spotlight along with anyone else who did the same.)

Pray through your requests—together—as a group.
After submitting your requests in the above form, take some time to share with your group whatever requests the group might have for this week.

Serve Perspective
Whatever you do, when it delights God it will also delight you.

Let's recap what we have learned in this Spotlight—and series.
Discuss: Having walked through this Spotlight, how does the way you talk to others about the benefits of a spiritual life change?

Sing along with (or listen to) this song to close out this Spotlight.'

Feel free to sing along or simply listen. Do what makes you comfortable—but do whatever helps you focus on the song's meaning best.

Farewell Perspective
Recreation is designed to be part of your maturation.

Let's wrap things up by taking a look at what's Current at Illume.

Tap on the buttons in the frame below to see what’s currently happening at Illume—information on everything from current and upcoming online content to live events and opportunities to serve in the community can all be found here.