“He is risen,” Christians say to one another this season. Yet, living in the way of His resurrection means dying to bear resurrection fruit. “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit,” Jesus said in John 12:24.
Take a few moments with our NOW District Resurrection Mission Minutes video to find out what this meant for Redeemer Lutheran Church and XrossWay Ministries in the Magic Valley in Kimberly, Idaho, and explore what it means for you. When we bear fruit by serving in the way of a grain of wheat, we are truly ready to respond: “He is risen indeed.” That’s worth an “Alleluia, Amen!”
—————————————EPISODE NOTES AND QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER—————————————
Talk About It:
Understanding the Message
1. What does Jesus mean when He compares His death to a grain of wheat?
2. How did the closure of Redeemer Lutheran resemble the “death” described in the video?
Reflection
1. What emotions might people experience when a congregation closes?
2. What part of this story gave you hope or encouragement?
3. How does the promise of resurrection change how we view endings or loss?
Application
1. What does faithful stewardship sometimes require us to release or surrender?
2. How can congregations recognize when God may be leading them into a new season of ministry?
3. In what ways can new ministry grow from past sacrifices?
4. How does this story strengthen your confidence in God’s ability to bring life from loss?
Personal Reflection Prompts
1. Where have you seen God bring life out of something that first felt like loss?
2. What might God be calling you to trust Him with right now?
3. How does Jesus’ resurrection shape how you face uncertainty?
Put It Into Action:
1. Pray for congregations facing difficult transitions.
2. Encourage leaders who are guiding ministries through change.
3. Share this story with someone who may need hope during a season of loss.