Cross Borders
In this unit, crossing borders is about actions we take to reach out to others who are different from us in order to love them and build bridges of understanding and justice. Jesus encountered many borders in his ministry. People suffering from illnesses like leprosy were considered unclean and to be separated from others. Women, even from his own Jewish religion, were legally the property of men and treated as second- or third-class citizens. People from other religions or countries were suspect and to be avoided. Over and again, we find Jesus crossing those human-erected borders and walls, challenging them in the name of love and justice. He even called out his own political and religious leaders for enforcing unjust borders, which, in part, led to his crucifixion.
This practice shows how we, as followers of Jesus, are pushed, pulled, invited, and commanded by God to embrace the fullness of humanity. This unit focuses on four aspects of crossing borders: leave your comfort zone, embrace relationships, challenge exclusion, and speak God’s language of love.
Congregational Guide
The Congregational Guide provides materials for the pastor, educator, and church leaders to connect the practice with congregational worship and life.
Included in this guide:
Foundational Essay—written by a biblical scholar, these essays explore what each practice means and where it is found in the Bible.
Worship Helps—ways of incorporating this practice in worship through liturgy, song, and other suggestions.
Café Discussion Guide—self-guided, brief study for each practice.
Intergenerational Session—option for your church to have an event or explore the practice as a whole congregation together.
Curriculum Connections—information about what each age level is doing weekly.
Practicing the Practice at Home—a two-sided page for families about how to practice the practice at home.
Children’s Worship Leaflets—weekly two-sided page with practice ideas, games, an adapted Bible story, and a coloring picture.
