Raising Resilient Kids

Wednesday, November 3 @ 7:00 pm

In our first Growing Deeper event of the year, Kevin Broene, owner and operator of Grit Leadership, LLC and our Grand Rapids Christian Middle School Athletic Director and Grand Rapids Christian High School Assistant Athletic Director, shares valuable insights and research on grit, growth mindset, and how we can communally raise resilient kids. Viewers will leave this presentation with actionable skills to develop growth mindsets from the athletic field to the classroom or even conversations at the dinner table.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10: 24-25

Lisa Sharon Harper Discussion References:

A Conversation about Racial Justice

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

As a cultural intelligence strategist, author, filmmaker, artist, and motivational speaker, Julian Newman has spoken to more than 100,000 people and groups nationally and internationally during the past 20 years. In his work with GRCS, he helps lead diversity and inclusion efforts with faculty, staff, and students. 

Julian Newman joined us to address the pressing question: How do we live as Christ-centered disciples in a time of racial and cultural polarization?

He did this by clearly grounding the conversation and the work of racial justice and reconciliation in Scripture, looking to Jesus as our guide. Julian's presentation takes us on a biblical journey to help live into God’s call to be a community of justice-seekers in a  world. Along the way, he gives pastoral advice and practical guidance for individuals and families taking up this important work.

“The institution of race broke America at its foundations. It will not be enough to tinker here and there. We need to envision a new way of being together… It will mean imagining a world where everyone - especially the least of these - has enough to thrive.” Very Good Gospel, 157.

What Now? 7 Steps Toward Racial Justice as a Family

By Julian Newman
 

1. Recognize & Celebrate Differences

If your younger child asks about someone's skin color, use it as an opportunity to celebrate with a statement like, "Isn't that cool? God made all of us, and we are all unique and awesome!" If you have older children, talk about digital images in media that stereotype, communicate bias, or give a more balanced perspective. 
 

2. Speak Openly and Honestly About Race

Talking clearly about race, racism, diversity, and equity builds powerful pathways of communication and trust. Making this a part of the regular family rhythm allows everyone to navigate the nuances surrounding the race conversation and engage more comfortably and with confidence. 
 

3. Take Responsibility for Your Own Learning

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google, Bing, and a host of streaming services are available to everyone. Don't place the burden of your educational journey on the shoulders of someone else. Watch a movie, documentary, or do a family book study and have a discussion about it. 
 

4. Enter Into the Struggle

Understand that you "don't have to be one to stand with" and "there are no others, just other people." Rather than turning away from the ugliness of racism, lean into it, and feel it. Don't deny, deflect, or diminish the effects of racism. Lament with those that are suffering and have compassion on those that are hurting. 
 

5. Encourage Action

Look for opportunities to engage in larger conversations, move into different relationship circles, and seek to promote and create racial justice and equity. Add day to day living to your learning, and over time the capacity to exercise leadership will emerge from an authentic life. Consistency in this area allows you to put some "walk" to the "talk." 
 

 6. Be Vulnerable

It is okay not to have all the answers. It takes courage to confront our own ignorance, bias, and prejudice. But we can't fix what we won't face. Being courageous informs others that we are all connected and encourages and empowers others to be brave as well. 
 

7. Take a Minute to Breathe

This is good for everyone but absolutely essential if you are in a marginalized group that is regularly the target of racism. Take a break from the news, social media, and intense racial images. Stay away from social media debates. Conserve your energy. Your experience is your experience, and you don't need to prove anything to anyone. Reach out to your circle of support and take time to unburden your soul and care for yourself. 

Faith & Politics

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Dr. Kristen Deede Johnson (from Western Seminary) led us in thinking about the question: What is our calling as Christians, as followers of the way of Jesus, in this current political moment?

She dod this by guiding us through a brief historical survey of Christian engagement in politics from the time of Jesus to the modern-day.  And then, turning to the present-day, Dr. Johnson invited us to consider how Christian beliefs, virtues, and spiritual disciplines can help shape our political engagement as a form of Christian witness.

“It is necessary for all people of faith to draw from our principles to help us engage the world in a way that moves our nation and world toward God’s very goodness.” Very Good Gospel, 175.