Psalm 16.1,4-6,9-11
David sings, ‘my whole being rejoices’! How can we have that joy? David tells us that it is because the Lord is his chosen portion that he has such joy. Peter echoes the same sentiment (which is also our path to joyful contentment) ‘Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.’
Job 15.1-23,30-35
For younger children read at least Psalm 16.10 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also talk about how this verse is about Jesus. Jesus was not left in the tomb forever. How long did he stay there? Until the third day. Will he ever be back there? No! Will we be in the grave, or Sheol, forever? No. We will live forever with Jesus!
For older children you could discuss this note – “Eliphaz admonishes Job to receive his inspired counsel, since he feels that Job thinks too highly of himself and his own wisdom. Today, we must not assume that someone’s mental, emotional, and/or spiritual agony is the result of unrepentant rebellion; it could very well be that God is refining that person’s faith. Just as the afflictions of Christ overflow into our lives, so also our comfort in Christ overflows; we are being made like our Savior (1 Co 1.5; Php 3.10). When perplexed in our affliction, may we – through the eyes of faith – see Christ, whose affliction saved us from sin and death!” The Lutheran Study Bible
John 6.60-71
For younger children read at least John 6.68 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also ask, “Have you ever had a day that was so good that you hoped it would never end?” You might even remind them of a time when your child expressed that. “Everlasting life will be even better than that because we will be with Jesus and it really will never end.
For older children you could discuss this – “Faced with Jesus’ true identity and the necessity of faith in Him, many stop following Jesus. Nevertheless, Jesus’ words bring life; they are the means the Father uses to draw people to Himself.” The Lutheran Study Bible
Write it on the heart verses – Psalm 16.10 and John 6.68
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 prepare ourselves for the Sacrament? 1 Timothy 4.8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.