HILLSONG - Let Hope RiseSample

Downward Focused

“The way of God is actually downward focused. We just need to serve people. We need to love people.” –Dylan Thomas

When Hillsong United begins work on a new project, they usually start with an abstract concept. Empires, for example, was inspired by the ironic nature of the kingdom of God. While the world operates on the notion that personal importance is dictated by social status, Jesus taught that true greatness is achieved only by selfless service. Moviegoers will see the intimate and exhaustive process band members go through in creating their worship songs in the new film HILLSONG - LET HOPE RISE.

We’re taught from a young age that we should aspire for more—to work for a bigger paycheck or the corner office. Likewise, we begin to allow these accomplishments to become our source of validation. As believers, though, we know that our value is found in Jesus alone.

Realizing who we are in him, our view of the world starts to shift. Instead of wealth or fame, our focus begins to shift towards those we encounter on a daily basis. When we allow God to continue renewing our hearts and minds, we focus less on gaining a platform and more on loving and serving people where they are.

Questions

1. How does God’s way of living differ from the world’s way?
2. What does “success” look like for a Christian?
3. What difference does it make in our lives when we serve others selflessly?

Prayer
Father, I realize that your ways are higher than my ways, and your thoughts are higher than my own. Give me wisdom and strength to resist the values of the world and to pursue the kind of life Jesus modelled for us. Amen.