Jesus, the forgiving teacher
Children's Activity
Object:
Today we celebrate Christ the King. At first it may seem odd to talk about Christ's crucifixion, resurrection and enthronement in November. We normally talk about the death of Christ during Lent and the other topics on Easter. But we return to the subjects now too, because this is the last Sunday before we begin our Advent preparations. We are getting ready to welcome the King as a baby during Christmas. Talking about his victory today gives us one last look at where his earthly story ends before we begin it again with Christmas.
A couple of weeks ago we had a "patience scorecard" as our activity. We studied the example of Jesus as a patient teacher and we practiced trying to become more patient ourselves. Today's lesson follows that same kind of theme. Jesus' example of forgiveness is utterly amazing. Even under the most extreme circumstances Jesus was able to forgive those who hurt him. If anyone had the right to want vengeance it would be him. He didn't seek it, though. He chose forgiveness instead.
To practice forgiveness this week, say together the Lord's Prayer. Consider carefully the part that says, "Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us." Have some real conversations about forgiveness -- what it means, why it's important and how hard it can be. Remind your children that God wants us to pray and ask for his help. We are not always capable of forgiveness all by ourselves, but we can do it with God's help.
Say the Lord's Prayer each night before you go to sleep. Make an effort to clean out your heart and go to sleep without the burden of anger or frustration resting on you.
A couple of weeks ago we had a "patience scorecard" as our activity. We studied the example of Jesus as a patient teacher and we practiced trying to become more patient ourselves. Today's lesson follows that same kind of theme. Jesus' example of forgiveness is utterly amazing. Even under the most extreme circumstances Jesus was able to forgive those who hurt him. If anyone had the right to want vengeance it would be him. He didn't seek it, though. He chose forgiveness instead.
To practice forgiveness this week, say together the Lord's Prayer. Consider carefully the part that says, "Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us." Have some real conversations about forgiveness -- what it means, why it's important and how hard it can be. Remind your children that God wants us to pray and ask for his help. We are not always capable of forgiveness all by ourselves, but we can do it with God's help.
Say the Lord's Prayer each night before you go to sleep. Make an effort to clean out your heart and go to sleep without the burden of anger or frustration resting on you.
