Psalm 73.25-28
“It is good to be near God.” Be near God in Scripture, in prayer from those words, in baptismal remembrance, in forgiving grace, in bread and wine that are his body and blood. It is good to be dear God!
Genesis 13.1-18
For younger children read at least Genesis 13.16 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You may also talk about how God has fulfilled that promise in the Church that is filled with people from all over the earth.
For older children you could discuss this prayer – “Conflict arises between Abram’s and Lot’s herdsmen. Abram – for the sake of peace within the clan – decides they need to part and relinquishes to Lot the right of first choice. What an example Abram sets for true, godly living, an example Christ Himself shows. Though Christ was God, He counted humanity better than Himself, taking the form of a servant that we might be treated like kings and queens! By His self-sacrificing humble service in our place, we are reconciled with God.” The Lutheran Study Bible
Mark 5.1-20
For younger children read at least Mark 5.19 and repeat it so that it might be written on the heart. You might also share some the great things God has done for you, setting an example of praise for your kids to grow into.
For older children you could discuss this – “Despite Jesus’ magnificent work of deliverance, the reaction to Him is mixed. The man eagerly wishes to follow Jesus and then enthusiastically furthers His cause, while the townspeople ask Jesus to go away. The Lord still receives the same kind of mixed reaction today, even among those who follow Him, especially when doing so requires a change from established ways. But hat remarkable kindness Jesus shows! He rescues people from the devil’s power and even the grave itself, and then allows them to be witnesses to the wonders of His grace.” The Lutheran Study Bible
Write it on the heart verses – Genesis 13.16 and Mark 5.19
Small Catechism for the week: The Sixth Petition Lead us not into temptation. What does this mean? God surely tempts no one to sin, but we pray in this petition that God would guard and keep us, so that the devil, the world, and our flesh may not deceive us or lead us into false belief, despair, and other great and shameful sins; and though we are tempted by them, we pray that we may overcome and win the victory.
Small Catechism question for the day: All of us have it difficult. All of us are tempted. What are we not? 2 Corinthians 4.8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;