September 24th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Let Them Come to Me
Then little children were being brought to him in order that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples spoke sternly to those who brought them; but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” And he laid his hands on them and went on his way
[Reading above - Matthew 19:13-15]
Considering that we are just two chapters away from Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem for his final week, an argument could be made that these words of Jesus so near the end of his ministry invite special atention. Repetition is another way to emphasize an important lesson; note the similar teaching in Mathew 18:3-5. For both of these reasons, today’s teaching is noteworthy regarding the place of children in Jesus’ life and in the rule of God. Children were important to Jesus. Children should be important to us as Jesus’ followers.
Questions for Reflection:
Why do you think Jesus’ disciples tried to prevent children from seeing Jesus? Are there barriers we place in the way of children at Friedens that prevent their connection with Jesus?
In Mathew 18:3-5, the characteristic of being humble is associated with being child-like. This characteristic is also emphasized in the first Beatitude (Mathew 5:3). What is it about humility supports discipleship and readies us to live under the rule of God?
Mathew reports that Jesus “laid his hands on the children”. The laying on of hands in the Old and New Testaments was a ritual act of blessing, healing, and commissioning (see Deuteronomy 34:9, Genesis 48:14-16, Acts 6:5-6, Acts 9:17, and Acts 13:1-3). In what ways do we bring blessing, healing, and commissioning to children’s lives at Friedens?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Acts of kindness and generosity are spiritual disciplines. Renew your commitment of kindness for children by contributing to Weekenders, providing period products for students at a local school, volunteering with Treasure Seekers, or making a donation to Little Timmy, Indiana Youth Group, or the mission of your choice. Honor Jesus by honoring children.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice. Use the journal as a way to:
jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures, respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes, make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons, create a to-do list of discipleship actions, list questions you want to explore, write prayers, stories, poems, or letters, be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com