2025 Theme

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” – John 13:15

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We’re all following something. Maybe it’s sports teams, musicians, celebrities, influencers or even the people in our everyday lives. We’re impacted by the things and people we follow, as we give them our time and attention.

Following others is a normal part of the human experience. In Jesus’ time, there was a saying: “Be covered in the dust of your Rabbi.” Disciples were expected to follow their teacher’s footsteps so closely that they’d be covered in the dust that was kicked up.

The disciples in the Bible followed Jesus this way, so greatly impacted by his unconditional love that one of them described himself as “the one whom Jesus loved.” As they followed in Jesus’ footsteps, doing everything they could to know him and live out his kingdom, the dust built up on them and became noticeable. As they practiced their faith over time, they began to look like Jesus, loving and serving those around them.

This summer, we’ll explore what it can look like to respond to God’s love and follow Jesus closely, just like his disciples. We’ll spend time with Jesus and his teachings, knowing it’s hard to follow someone you don’t know very well! And as we learn to follow closely, we will start to look like Jesus in the ways we love and serve others.

We’re all following something. May we follow Jesus so closely that we are covered in his dust.