Movies at The Cove Week 3
Movie – McFarland, USA
Quick Movie Summary
McFarland, USA tells the true story of Coach Jim White, who reluctantly takes a coaching job in a struggling farming community after losing his previous position. Determined to leave as soon as a better opportunity comes along, Jim initially sees McFarland as something to escape. But as he invests in his runners and their families, his perspective begins to change. He discovers that life isn't about constantly chasing something better. It's about faithfully loving and serving the people God has already placed around us.
Opening Scene
Have you ever found yourself saying, “Life will be better when...”? How would you finish that sentence? Share if there was a time you said that and if it turned out to be true or not.
Roll the Tape
• Why was Coach White so unhappy in McFarland at the beginning?
• In what ways was he viewing everything through the lens of "me"?
• How can focusing on our own plans keep us from seeing God's purpose?
Leader Note: Selfishness isn't always obvious. Sometimes it simply looks like being so consumed with our own plans, problems, or preferences that we miss the people and opportunities God has placed around us. Coach White didn't need a different town—he needed a different perspective.
God's Story: Part 1
Read Philippians 2:3–8.
• According to verses 3–4, what attitudes or actions does Paul tell believers to avoid, and what does he encourage them to do instead?
• In verses 5–8, what do you learn about Jesus' attitude and actions toward others?
• How does or should Jesus' example challenge the way you approach your relationships, priorities, or the things you're tempted to pursue?
Leader Note: Paul contrasts two ways of living: one centered on ourselves and one modeled after Christ. Selfish ambition and pride keep our focus on our own plans and desires, while Jesus willingly humbled Himself and took the position of a servant. Following Christ begins with adopting His mindset, a heart that values others above self.
God's Story: Part 2
Read Matthew 9:35–38.
• What did Jesus see when He looked at the crowds, and how did He respond?
• What reason does Jesus give for telling His disciples to pray for more workers?
• What might it look like for you to be one of the "laborers" Jesus describes in your everyday life?
Leader Note: Matthew tells us that when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion because they were "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus didn't simply notice people. He truly saw them. The more we become like Christ, the less consumed we are with ourselves and the more aware we become of the people God has placed around us. When Jesus changes our vision, He changes our mission.
After the Credits
This week, pay attention to what has your attention.
Ask yourself:
• Am I chasing something that has become more important than my relationship with God or the people He's placed around me?
• Where have I become so focused on my own plans or priorities that I've overlooked someone who needs encouragement or compassion?
• Who is one person God may be inviting me to invest in this week intentionally?
Challenge: Before you begin each day, pray: "Lord, help me take my eyes off myself and see the people You've placed in front of me. Show me how to love and serve them the way Jesus does.