The OneLife at Three Springs community had the incredible privilege of learning from Bethann Miller, who joined us to teach on Spiritual Formation and Disciple Making. From her first evening with us — complete with homemade chocolate chip banana bread from our Hospitality Committee — Bethann’s presence brought depth, wisdom, and warmth that made a lasting impact on our group.
A Week of Learning and Growth
Throughout the week, students engaged in teaching sessions, discussions, triads, and discipleship groups. Bethann centered her time with us on what she calls “the process of becoming.” As Luke 2:52 describes, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Even Jesus, our perfect Savior, experienced a process of growth and formation — reminding us that our own journey with Him is one of continual becoming.
Through honest conversation and practical application, Bethann helped students see that formation isn’t something God forces on us, but something we enter into willingly.
Core Takeaways from Bethann’s Teaching:
- Be gentle with yourself and give time to this season of becoming.
- When someone shows you who they are—good or bad—believe them.
- If you’re not whole single, you won’t be whole married.
- The Lord will not force formation on you.
During one discussion, Bethann asked students what they wished older generations understood about them. Their responses were thoughtful and deeply insightful:
“Acknowledge that we are a different generation—please don’t compare us or try to make sense of us through your experiences.”
“We really want adults who are willing to mentor, coach, and invest in sharing wisdom with us.”
“Please know that our identities are attacked far more than previous generations may realize.”
These reflections reminded us that discipleship is not just about personal growth but about understanding and connection across generations.
Community and Celebration
After our final session with Bethann, the Events Committee hosted a costume dance party to celebrate the week! With decorations, snacks, karaoke, and plenty of dancing, it was a joyful evening that perfectly captured the spirit of OneLife—learning deeply, living fully, and laughing often.
Friday brought time for rest, reflection, and service. Students participated in Stew Crews, took part in a “mandatory nap and schoolwork” block, and finished the week with FitCo’s adventurous polar plunge in a nearby swimming hole!
Looking Ahead
Next week, students will take what they’ve learned and put it into practice during the Spiritual Formation and Disciple Making Teach Backs. In small groups, they’ll present content from their assigned chapters of The Good and Beautiful Life by James Bryan Smith.
This book walks readers through Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and explores topics like anger, lust, lying, blessing those who curse you, judging others, and more. As our students continue their journey of formation, Smith’s writing provides both timeless wisdom and tangible practices that help guide them toward Christlikeness. It promises to be a meaningful week of reflection, discussion, and growth as students share and teach what they’ve learned so far.
Final Reflections
The fall season has offered a beautiful backdrop for all this growth—sunshine, rain, frosty mornings, and the changing colors of the leaves. As students continue to learn and serve, they are reminded that formation is a lifelong journey, marked by both quiet reflection and joyful community.
We are grateful for another rich and meaningful week together.
Until next time, grace and peace from all of us at OneLife.