Psalm 77.1-3,7-12,15
We are allowed to ask these kind of questions in our suffering “Has God forgotten to be gracious?” It seems at times like he has. We should follow the direction of these psalms and remember the mighty acts of redemption for his people, especially the great act of redemption on the cross.
Job 3.11-26
For younger children this section might be difficult to hear though they likely could understand it better than we can. If you read it to them be ready to answer “I don’t really know” to many of their good questions that will follow. In addition to “I don’t really know” you can say “When we are troubled and maybe don’t even know why we feel sad, we can remember this – Jesus loves you.” Then read Psalm 77.11 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart.
For older children you could read and discuss this – “Even the most optimistic people will reach despair when overwhelmed by pain and suffering, as the examples of prisoners of war demonstrate. The mind snaps just as bones do. Scripture does not teach that death is a friend to those who suffer – death is always an enemy, but one overcome by the Lord. Commend those who despair to Jesus, who likewise cried, “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?” and rose from the dead to say, “Peace be with you.” The Lutheran Study Bible
John 1.35-51
For younger children read at least John 1.51 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also share this wonder that Jesus is the stairway to heaven (Gen 28).
For older children you could discuss this – “When Jesus calls the first disciples, He reveals Himself to be the Messiah – the Son of God and Son of Man – the way to heaven. Today, people may still question Jesus’ invitation to follow Him. Yet, Jesus overcomes unbelief through the Gospel testimony and graciously opens the way to heaven through His Word.” The Lutheran Study Bible
Write it on the heart verses – Psalm 77. and John 1.51
Small Catechism for the week: Table of Duties – To Widows – The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help. But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives. – 1 Timothy 5.5-6
Small Catechism question for the day: What should be a difference between you and a ‘Gentile’? Matthew 6.31-33 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.