Psalm 37.25-29
“He will not forsake his saints.” What a comforting word when we know that we are saints. You are a saint, not because you have done what is so great but because you have been made holy by grace and through faith in Jesus.
Job 13.1-12
For younger children read at least Psalm 37.25 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also walk through the Small Catechism’s answer to the question “What is meant by daily bread?” The list is long! Can you add anything to it?
For older children you could discuss this note on verse 11 – “majesty terrify. As the Israelites experienced at Mount Sinai, no one can stand in God’s glorious presence without being terrified. Toward the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, Peter experienced the same terror when he saw Christ’s supernatural power in the miraculous catch of fish. Peter exclaimed, ‘Depart from me, for I am a sinful man’ (Lk 5.8). It is our own sin and accusing conscience that make us tremble when confronted with the glory of the almighty and holy God.” The Lutheran Study Bible How then can we be right with God?
John 6.1-21
For younger children read at least John 6.20 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also ask, “When were some other times that Jesus said, ‘Do not be afraid’?” A great one was on Easter Sunday (Matthew 28.10).
For older children you could discuss this note – “Jesus’ feeding of 5,000, the next sign recorded in John, reveals Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God (Jn 20.30-31). Like those who had eaten their full, we also are tempted to seek the Lord only for the earthly things He can give us. Fortunately for us, Jesus reigns as our heavenly King, who calls us to repentance, fills us with needed spiritual blessings, and gives us everlasting life.” The Lutheran Study Bible
Write it on the heart verses – Psalm 36.25 and John 6.20
Small Catechism for the week: What is the benefit of this eating and drinking? These words, “Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins,” show us that in the Sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
Small Catechism question for the day: How do we know that Jesus is not using a picture in the Sacrament? 1 Corinthians 10.16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? the bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? A participation requires presence.