Crossing Over

DOWNLOAD the 'Crossing Over' small groups resource (PDF)

Fellowship – Snacks or a Meal (10 minutes with snacks; longer, obviously, if there is a meal).

Gathering Time (5-10 minutes). In pairs or groups of three, have participants discuss, “What's a significant moment in your life where you felt you were ‘crossing over’ into a new chapter?” (i.e., graduating from high school, getting married, having first child/grandkid, changing jobs, getting sick/recovering from being sick, losing loved ones)

Group Dialogue (Approximately 30 minutes). Read 2 Kings 2:1-12 and Mark 9:2-9.

• In 2 Kings 2:1-12, how many times did Elisha deny Elijah’s request to stay where they were? [three times (2 Kings 2:2, 2:4 & 2:6)] What do you think is the reason for Elisha’s not wanting to stay? [Perhaps Elisha knew that change was coming, yet he was afraid of the change.]

• In the Gospel reading today, who appeared with Jesus on the mountain in front of Peter, James, and John? [Elijah with Moses (Mark 9:4)] The Preaching Notes say, “The Transfiguration of Jesus also brings him together in the cloud with the only Hebrew prophets who ever had the luxury of appointing their successors: Moses chose Joshua, and Elijah chose Elisha.” What is the importance of passing on leadership roles within a faith community?

• Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah" (Mark 9:5). Why do you think he said that? [Perhaps his suggestion to build shelters reflects his desire to cling to the familiar.] Humans tend to resist change and hold on to what they know, even when God is leading them into new and transformative experiences. Have you resisted change although you felt God was leading you?

• God said, "This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!" (Mark 9:7b) How might this declaration guide us in our journey of faith?
  • In what ways do you feel God is calling you to "cross over" in your spiritual journey or service within the church community?
  • Are there obstacles or challenges that you feel are preventing you from embracing the call to "cross over"? How might you overcome them?

Prayer (10 minutes). Share prayer requests and respond appropriately.

Sending Forth (2 minutes). End with the following prayer, a similar prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer:

Gracious and Loving God, as we gather in Your presence, we seek the wisdom to embrace the theme of "crossing over." Just as Elijah passed his mantle and the Transfiguration revealed Your divine glory, may we recognize the moments of transformation in our lives. Grant us courage for transitions and openness to Your guidance. As a faith community, may we support one another, finding strength in our spiritual journeys. Amen.

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Rev. Motoe Yamada Foor, Director of Adult Discipleship, served in local churches for twenty years. She has a wealth of experience at a variety of organizational levels of The United Methodist Church as well as in ecumenical organizations such as the World Council of Churches (WCC). She also enjoys serving as a coach to help people and churches grow.