Jesus regularly changed lives, not in crowds but in proximity—one person at a time. In this first week of our One at a Time series, we explore how following Jesus means noticing who is already right in front of us.

For the One vision:
Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will walk with each one in our communities so that together we experience life as Jesus meant it to be.
If we want to live out this vision it has to start small. It starts near. It starts now. It starts with one person.

Opener:
1. If you could instantly master one “people skill” (remembering names, listening well, small talk, etc.), what would it be and why?
2. Think of a time you were around someone—maybe a coworker, neighbor, or even someone in your family—and later realized you barely connected with them. What are your feelings around that experience? 

Discussion Questions:

1. Read Luke 8:40–42, 49–56. What stands out to you about Jesus being interrupted on the way to Jairus’ house? What might your reactions be in this situation?
2. Read Mark 5:25–34. Why does Jesus allow himself to be interrupted by the bleeding woman when He is already on an urgent mission? How might God be working in what feels like interruptions in your life right now?In the sermon, we talked about the great power of availability.
3. Do you agree with this notion? How could this challenge the way our culture defines importance or significance?
4. Share about a time when someone made themselves available to you in a meaningful way. What lessons can you take from that experience?
5. The sermon emphasized “proximity” as a key part of following Jesus. Who are 1–2 people that God has already placed in your “proximity” this season?

Go Deeper:
1. If “loving your neighbor” is less about finding the right person and more about responding to your current proximity, how does that change how you view your everyday schedule?
2. What might be keeping you from fully engaging with the people God has already placed near you (distraction, busyness, discomfort, assumptions, etc.)? When do you find it hardest to engage with people in your daily life? 

Live It Out:

1.Spiritual Practice:
Set a daily silent alarm. When it goes off, pause and pray for whoever is closest to you at that moment.
2. Practicing Presence Tip:
When you feel rushed or distracted, slow down and notice who’s in front of you.
3. Holy Inconvenience:
Skip the drive-thru or self-checkout once this week. Take time to go inside and have a real interaction with someone.

Reflection: 

Take this short survey to help you reflect on your relationship with the Holy Spirit and help us better support and equip you. Thank you!
Note: This may look familiar from last fall. If so, take this survey again to reflect on your growth and understanding of the Holy Spirit as we progress through our For the One vision. Your email will only be used to send you a copy of your response.

Prayer Prompt:

Invite each person in the group to quietly identify one person by first name. Pray this prayer together: Lord, open my eyes to see (this person) the way You see them. Give me awareness of their needs, courage to move toward them, and love that reflects Jesus in my proximity. Amen.