Read: Daniel 7:9-10

As I looked,
“thrones were set in place,
and the Ancient of Days took his seat.
His clothing was as white as snow;
the hair of his head was white like wool.
His throne was flaming with fire,
and its wheels were all ablaze.
A river of fire was flowing,
coming out from before him.
Thousands upon thousands attended him;
ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him.
The court was seated,
and the books were opened.”

Daniel 7:9-10

Jesus Is Our Great Judge

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

In a scene from one of the most famous movies of all time, a girl named Dorothy and her three friends enter the throne room of a great and powerful wizard. They shake in fear as flames explode and a great voice booms: “I am OZ, the great and powerful! Who are you?” But anyone who has seen this movie knows the truth. The so-called “wizard” has no real power, just some clever tricks. The flames and fireworks are made by a machine. The booming voice comes from a hidden microphone. He looks mighty and powerful, but Dorothy and her friends have no reason to be afraid.

The story of Jesus we heard today is very different. Jesus is great and powerful! When he sits on his throne with flames of fire, there are no tricks involved. When he calls himself “the Ancient of Days,” he reminds us that he has eternal authority to judge the world. If he were to make a list of all our sins, we would have no way to defend ourselves. If he were to judge the world with fire or send his voice booming over the whole earth, there would be no stopping his incredible power! Our God, the Ancient of Days, is truly a great and powerful judge!

But we do not need to tremble or shake when we stand in God’s presence. We do not need to be afraid of God’s judgment. When he looks at our lives and considers the list of everything we have ever done, he sees his loving mercy stamped on every page of the book. It means that because of Jesus, we are forgiven and the record of our sins wiped clean! If God were to look at us and thunder the question, “Who are you?” he would already know the answer: This is someone I love, someone for whom I died, someone I want with me forever in heaven!

God, the Ancient of Days, allows us to see him as he actually is—mighty and powerful on his throne! But because we know that Jesus our judge rules in mercy and truth, we are not afraid. May we be amazed by his power! May we trust in his love.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you are so great and powerful that no one can stand up to you.
Lord Jesus, you are so true and right that there is nothing false in you.
Lord Jesus, you are so gracious and merciful that no one could ever fully thank you.
Lord Jesus, Ancient of Days, look on me in love, now and always. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What kind of people sit on thrones? What does it mean that God sits on a throne, too?
• How does God use his almighty power to take care of you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is the job of a judge? When God judges you for your sins, will he find you guilty or innocent? Why?
• Jesus shows himself to us in many ways in the Bible. What do each of these pictures of Jesus teach us about him?
  ○ Baby Jesus in a manger
  ○ Jesus on the cross
  ○ Jesus the judge sitting on a throne of flames

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Re-read the detailed description of God and his throne in today’s Bible verses. What do we learn about God’s power and nature through this vivid portrayal of him as the “Ancient of Days”?
• Even when our lives and our world seem to be in chaos, God is all-powerful and reigning on this throne. How does remembering that bring you comfort?

Hymn: CW 243:1 – Oh, Worship the King

Oh, worship the King, all-glorious above;
Oh, gratefully sing his pow’r and his love,
Our shield and defender, the Ancient of Days,
Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise.

 

Read: Galatians 5:1-6

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery…The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
Galatians 5:1,6

Stand Firm in the Freedom Jesus Gives

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Every November our country celebrates Veteran’s Day. On this day, we honor the brave men and women of America’s armed forces who have fought to preserve our nation’s freedom. But what do we mean when we say that America is a free country? When we are free, we are not trapped or controlled by anyone else. We can worship, speak, and act the way we think is best. We thank God for the brave people who fought for this freedom!

In God’s Word for today, Paul reminds us that we need a different kind of freedom, too. We are all trapped in sin. We all do things that are wrong. Maybe you can think of some mistakes you’ve made already today. Maybe you got impatient with your brother or sister as your family rushed out the door this morning. Maybe you had a hard time sharing or you argued with a classmate. No matter how hard we try to be perfect, we all make mistakes that disappoint God every day. These sins tie us up, like we are trapped in chains. We are all tangled up in our mistakes, and we could never break free on our own. God knew that we could not save ourselves, so in love he sent Jesus into the world to rescue us. When Jesus died on the cross, he took away all of our sin and took the punishment we deserved. Our chains are gone! The guilt of sin is gone! Jesus has set us free!

Free from our sin, what should we do? We are so happy and thankful that we want to serve God with our lives. We praise God! We worship God! We love others! We can’t wait to show God how much we love him by living the way he wants us to live and by making choices that bring him glory. We don’t have to feel trapped by our mistakes or guilt anymore. We have peace. We don’t have to try to earn God’s love or fix our sin on our own. We have grace.

We enjoy many wonderful freedoms in our country, and many brave people have fought for us. But only Jesus could set us free from the biggest problem of our sin. Whenever we start to feel trapped by our sins, we turn to God’s Word and remember that Christ has set us free! We stand firm in the freedom Christ won for us on the cross, and we live joyful lives of love and thankfulness to God.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for dying on the cross set us free from our sin. Through your Word, remind us that we have your full and free forgiveness. Fill our hearts with joy as we live lives of love and thankfulness to you. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is sin? What are some ways that you sin?
• Why did Jesus die on the cross?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why can’t we solve the problem of our sin without Jesus?
• What are some things we can do to thank God for saving us?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree or disagree: Christian freedom means that I can do whatever I want, whenever I want.
• What might you say to encourage a friend who is afraid they’ve sinned so big that they can’t be forgiven?

Hymn: CW 390:1,5 – Salvation Unto Us Has Come

Salvation unto us has come By God’s free grace and favor.
Good works cannot avert our doom; They help and save us never.
Faith looks to Jesus Christ alone, Who did for all the world atone;
He is the one Redeemer.

Since Christ has full atonement made And brought to us salvation,
Each Christian therefore may be glad And build on this foundation.
Your grace alone, dear Lord, I plead; Your death is now my life indeed,
For you have paid my ransom.

 

Read: Matthew 10:16-23

On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Matthew 10:18-20

Preach God’s Word With Courage

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“Here’s the phone number,” Mom said to Emma as she handed her the cell phone. Tell them we want a large pizza with pepperoni and an order of garlic bread. Emma was terrified! She had to call to order the pizza. She had never done that before! What if she said something wrong? What if she didn’t know how to answer their questions? This was so embarrassing! Have you ever been scared to talk to someone? Young children will often hide behind a parent’s leg when a stranger speaks to them. Maybe you’ve felt terrified to stand in front of your class at school. No matter how old we get, it can still feel scary to talk sometimes!

In today’s Bible lesson, Jesus tells his disciples and us that we have the important job of telling people about him. Jesus wants us to tell everyone the good news that he died on the cross to take away their sins. But he warns us that it might feel scary. He warned his disciples they could get arrested or put in jail because of their preaching. Jesus tells us, “You will be hated by everyone because of me.” He says that even families will fight when they talk about him. Talking about Jesus will be hard. People will get angry with us or make fun of us. So, should we stop talking? Should we stop proclaiming the good news of Jesus?

No! Even when it feels scary, God is there to help us. Jesus promised, “Do not worry about what to say or how to say it…. for it will not be you speaking but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” When we tell people about the Savior, the Holy Spirit gives us the right words to say. Even when the conversations get hard, we are not alone. God is there with us.

If you have to call for pizza for the first time, your mom might sneak over and whisper the order into your ear. What a relief! If you have to present in front of your class, your teacher might walk over and point to the right answer on your paper. Phew! You’re not up there alone! God does the same thing for us when we tell people about Jesus. He is right there beside us giving us the words to say. This gives us the courage to keep speaking, no matter how hard the conversation gets and no matter what the consequences might be. Even when it feels scary to talk about Jesus, we can feel confident. God is with us and we will never stop sharing the amazing story of our Savior!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being with us and giving us the words to say when we tell people about you. Give us courage whenever we are scared to share your story, so that everyone we know can hear the good news that their sins are forgiven. In your name we pray, Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Who is Jesus and what did he do for you that makes you happy?
• Who are some people you can tell about this happy news?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why might talking about Jesus with an unbelieving friend or family member feel scary?
• If someone asks you a question about Jesus, what could you pray about quickly to build up your courage to have that conversation?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The Bible tells us to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15) We never know when a conversation about our faith might come up. How do we stay prepared to have these conversations?
• Is it worth it to talk to an unbelieving friend about Jesus if you know you might lose that friend? Why or why not?

Hymn: CW 200:4 – A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

The Word they still shall let remain, Nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain With his good gifts and Spirit.
And do what they will—Hate, steal, hurt, or kill—
Though all may be gone, Our victory is won;
The kingdom’s ours forever!

 

Read: Isaiah 26:6-9

He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth. The LORD has spoken.
Isaiah 26:8

God Will Save Us

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Crying is a natural part of life. When you’re a baby, it seems like you cry all the time! When you’re a little older and in elementary school, you don’t cry as much. You still cry, though, especially when something bad happens like getting hurt or having a friend move away.

When you get older you’ll probably cry even less. But there will still be times when you need to have a good hard cry. And at those times, there’s nothing better than someone who loves you handing you a Kleenex, giving you a hug, and telling you everything is going to be okay.

One event where it is difficult not to cry is a funeral. There’s something terribly sad about someone you love suddenly being gone and knowing you won’t see them at your next family gathering or hear their voice the next time the phone rings. There are Kleenexes handed out and hugs given at funerals, but there’s no bringing that person back from the dead. Sometimes it’s hard to believe that everything is going to be okay.

And then someday, it will be our turn to die too. Someday we will be the one who is lying in that casket and having people cry at our funeral. That’s a sad thought—a thought that seems strange and unnatural—because we are so full of life right now. It is strange and unnatural, because death wasn’t part of God’s original plan. Death came into the world when Adam and Eve sinned, and death has been a part of our lives ever since.

But here is some good news! Isaiah tells us that God is going to swallow up death forever and wipe away the tears from all faces. When Jesus rose from the grave on Easter morning, he declared victory over death. He came back to life and took away death’s power. We don’t have to be scared of dying anymore, because Jesus already died in our place. On the Last Day, we will rise just like he did and will live forever with him in heaven.

Yes, all of us are going to die someday (unless Jesus comes back first). Yes, this is a sad thought, because there will be people left behind who will miss us very much. But it doesn’t have to be a scary thought, because we know that death is not the end. Heaven comes after death—so there’s no reason to be afraid. We have something much better to look forward to, and death is just the way of getting there.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for dying in my place and rising again from the dead. Even when death seems scary, help me remember that for me, it is actually the door to heaven. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Why don’t you have to be scared of dying?
• When one of your friends is sad because someone they love dies, what can you say to them to help them feel better?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Although we will have to wait until heaven for God to perfectly wipe away all of our tears, what are some ways he comforts you in your life right now?
• Isaiah says, “Let us rejoice and be glad in [the LORD’s] salvation” (verse 9). Why can we rejoice even when someone we love dies?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The reading for today is sometimes heard at Easter. Even though this reading doesn’t specifically mention Jesus, why is it so appropriate?
• In verse 6, Isaiah talks about a feast that God will prepare for all people. What feast is he talking about? When and where will this feast be celebrated (cf. Revelation 19:9)?

Hymn: CW 213:1,5 – Forever With the Lord

Forever with the Lord!
Amen! So let it be.
Life from the dead is in that word,
My immortality.

So when my dying breath
Shall rend the veil in two,
By death I shall escape from death
To endless life with you.

 

Read: Philippians 3:12-21

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14

Believers Have the Goal of Heaven

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Alyssa had run cross country for a while, but this season was different. Before this year, she usually finished somewhere in the middle of the pack. But all her hard work and practice was finally starting to pay off, and she kept moving up. 13th place, 8th place, 5th place—she was so close to a medal.

There was only one race left in the season, and it was the toughest race on the schedule. Alyssa knew that it would take more hard work to earn a medal. It would have been easy for her to just give up and quit. Instead, she spent even more time practicing and training. She dreamed of crossing the finish line first and could almost feel that medal hanging around her neck.

The apostle Paul uses the picture of a race to describe his life as a Christian. Paul had a very hard life. It would have been easy for him to just give up. He had been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, left for dead, and spent a lot of time in prison—all because he told people about Jesus. Nobody would have blamed Paul if he had said, “I quit. Christianity is just too hard.”

But Paul refused to give up. Instead, he did the very opposite. He didn’t focus on all the bad things that happened to him in the past. He kept looking ahead and dreaming of crossing the finish line. And his prize for crossing the finish line was something much better than a cross country medal that wouldn’t last. His prize was being with God forever in heaven.

Paul worked hard at spreading the gospel. He traveled far and wide and shared the good news of Jesus with many people. But all of Paul’s hard work didn’t get him any closer to winning the prize. God called Paul to be a Christian and gave him faith in Jesus—a faith that led Paul to travel the world and be a missionary for the gospel. And when Paul’s life ended, God gave him the prize of heaven that Jesus had won for him on the cross.

You might not travel the world and be a missionary like the apostle Paul, but you do have something in common with him. God has also called you to be a Christian and given you faith in Jesus. And when your life ends, God will also give you the prize of heaven that Jesus won for you. That’s the best prize that you could ever receive!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, help me to be strong in my faith while I am running the race of life. Remind me always of the prize of heaven that is waiting for me—a prize of being with you forever. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Sometimes heaven seems so far away. What can you do to keep thinking about heaven and looking forward to going there someday?
• While he was “running his race,” the apostle Paul told lots of people about Jesus. Do you know someone that needs Jesus? What’s their name?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think the apostle Paul compared the life of a Christian to a race?
• What would you say to someone who claimed that all their hard work and good deeds should earn them a spot in heaven?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Later in this section, Paul says that we should “live up to what we have already attained” (verse 16) and that “our citizenship is in heaven” (verse 19). How do these phrases influence the way you run the race of your life?
• Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and 2 Timothy 4:7-8. What other athletic word pictures does Paul use to describe the life of a Christian? What additional advice does he give for living our lives as Christians?

Hymn: CW 431:1,6 – I Walk in Danger All the Way

I walk in danger all the way;
The thought shall never leave me
That Satan, who has marked his prey,
Is plotting to deceive me.
This foe with hidden snares
May seize me unawares
If e’er I fail to watch and pray;
I walk in danger all the way.

My walk is heav’nward all the way;
Await, my soul, the morrow,
When you farewell can gladly say
To all your sin and sorrow.
All worldly pomp, begone!
To heav’n I now press on.
For all the world I would not stay;
My walk is heav’nward all the way.

 

Read: Matthew 21:33-43

Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.
Matthew 21:43

A Warning for Those Who Don’t Believe

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

What is your favorite thing to do? Color and draw? Read a book? Play video games? When you’re coloring, reading, or playing at the computer and your parents want you to do something, do you listen right away? Or do they have to call you lots of times—and even then you don’t always do what they’re asking? Your parents are patient with you, but their patience eventually runs out. Then there might be consequences for not listening to them.

The same thing happened in today’s story from Jesus. The people who were supposed to work the land ignored all the servants the owner sent. They did worse things than that: they treated the servants badly and even killed some of them. When the owner sent his own son, they killed him too. That’s when the owner’s patience ran out, and he punished the people.

It’s easy to read this story and think, “I would never do that! I would always listen to Jesus and never cause God’s patience to run out!” But is that really true? Do you always listen to your parents during devotion time? To your pastor in church on Sunday morning? No. None of us listens to Jesus all the time, because none of us is perfect.

So what’s the difference between us and the people in Jesus’ story? We sin every day; we test God’s patience, just like the people in Jesus’ story. Should we be worried that God’s patience with us will run out? God punished those people! How do we know that he isn’t going to punish us too?

We know because God gave us faith. God’s Word assures us that instead of punishing us for our sins, God punished Jesus instead—even for the sins that we have done over and over again. So we trust in Jesus as our Savior. With his forgiveness in our hearts and heads, we stop worrying that God is going to lose patience with us. Because the Holy Spirit created faith in our hearts, God loves and sees us as his children. He will always forgive us and is always patient with us for Jesus’ sake.

Yes, we are to listen to God and do what he says. But even when we don’t, his Word tells us that we can be sure that he still loves us and won’t take his kingdom away from us like he did with the people in Jesus’ story. What an amazing gift!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the gift of faith. Remind us that because of this gift, we can be sure that you will never lose patience with us. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What might make God lose patience with you?
• When you are afraid that God will punish you, of what does God’s Word assure you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Jesus told this story to the chief priests and Pharisees who deeply disliked him and wanted to arrest him. How do you think they felt when they heard this story? How should we feel?
• Before our verse Jesus says, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” Some people reject Jesus, but we know he is the cornerstone of our faith. Why is this important?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Read the assigned text and then look at the three actions of the tenants in verse 35. What do you notice about the intensity of their actions? Why do their actions make the owner’s actions in verse 37 even more extraordinary?
• Recount with your parents the last time their patience ran out with you. Discuss how together you can better display godly obedience and God’s patience.

Hymn: CW 431:1,2 – I Walk in Danger All the Way

I walk in danger all the way;
The thought shall never leave me
That Satan, who has marked his prey,
Is plotting to deceive me.
This foe with hidden snares
May seize me unawares
If e’er I fail to watch and pray;
I walk in danger all the way.

I pass through trials all the way,
With sin and ills contending;
In patience I must bear each day
The cross of God’s own sending.
Oft in adversity
I know not where to flee
When storms of woe my soul dismay;
I pass through trials all the way.

 

Read: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32

Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!
Ezekiel 18:30b-32

Sinners Need to Repent

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The vase lies broken in pieces on the floor. Olivia and Michael stared at the mess with eyes that reflect how upset they are. Mom approached them to get the details of the story. Olivia was unhappy that her brother was in her way. Michael knew he was in the way but refused to move. Instead of politely asking him to move, Olivia pushed him. He fell onto the table where the vase had been, and down it came. As Mom slowly uncovered the details of the incident, she considered what should be done. Both Michael and Olivia would need to find a way to replace the vase. “That’s not fair,” Olivia cried. “It’s not my fault! It’s Michael’s fault!”

We can all be tempted to try to blame someone else when we sin. In the reading for today, you heard how some other people said the same thing. They felt that God was unfairly punishing them and that they were not as guilty as their fathers had been. God responded quite clearly. He was the one who created each one of them. He was the one with authority over them. He would decide what was best for them. He expected each of them to obey him perfectly. Each person was responsible for the way they lived and were answerable to God.

Why would he speak so strongly to them? Well, why do your parents sometimes speak strongly to you? Why do they expect you to behave in a way that is kind and loving to each other? Why do they warn that there are consequences for our actions?

It’s really quite simple. God loved those people dearly. God loves you dearly. He loves all people dearly. God doesn’t want anyone separated from him. He wants everyone to believe in him and be in heaven with him forever and ever. God said to the people in Jerusalem and to you and me, “Repent and live!” The word “repent” means “to turn away from sin.” God wants us to repent. He wants us to turn to him in faith. He wants us to turn to each other in love.

After a fight, it’s hard to admit when we’ve made a mistake. But denying our mistakes, our sins, doesn’t fix anything. Admitting our sin and repenting does. God’s forgiveness heals our relationship with him and leads to a healed relationship with each other.

The vase Olivia and Michael broke eventually was replaced. A lesson was learned about patience, repentance, and forgiveness. Above all, it taught them about God’s love for each of us.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, it’s sometimes hard to understand how you can forgive us over and over and yet, because of what Jesus did on the cross, you do. Help us to always treasure the peace we have with you because of your forgiveness and grace. Help us to show that to others. In your name we pray. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Why is it so hard to say, “I’m wrong”?
• When you and I do something wrong, we can feel badly about it inside. But when we admit that we’ve done something wrong, what do God promise to do?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• In the story today, Olivia blames Michael and Michael blames Olivia. If Mom or Dad were to believe one of them and not the other, will the situation be fixed? Why or why not?
• Even if we don’t get caught when we’ve done something wrong, we can worry about it, and the guilty feeling doesn’t go away. What is the only way to make it better?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What did God say in the final two sentences of the key verse that can be an encouragement when you are feeling guilty?
• Your mom and dad, your teachers, and especially God, want you to be at peace with them. How can daily prayer to God help you?

Hymn: CW 593:1,2,4 – Now the Light Has Gone Away

Now the light has gone away;
Father, listen while I pray,
Asking you to watch and keep
And to send me quiet sleep.

Jesus, Savior, wash away
All that I’ve done wrong today.
Make me ever more like you,
Good and gentle, kind and true.

Now my evening praise I give;
You once died that I might live.
All your precious gifts are free—
Oh, how good you are to me!

 

Read: Philippians 1:18b-27

Because of this I rejoice. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:18b,21

God is Gracious to Us in Life or Death

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

It’s Saturday morning. Your family is trying to decide if they will spend the day at the park or playing your favorite games together. Both are great choices. You’d love to do either. That’s what they call a win-win situation!

Paul was one of the greatest missionaries of all time. He spent all his time going from place to place starting churches and then encouraging people in those churches. He started churches in places named Corinth and Philippi. He would visit them, and when he couldn’t be with them, he’d write letters to them.

God’s Word for today comes from one of Paul’s letters. He wrote it from a prison cell. You see, Paul was in jail for telling people about Jesus. He didn’t know if he would go free or be put to death. How frightening!

However, when you read Paul’s letter, you can hear in his words that he was not afraid. Just the opposite, Paul used words like rejoice and joy, hope and courage! Whether he lived or died, Paul saw this as a win-win situation. If he was set free, he was excited to continue his work of sharing the gospel with the people of Philippi and many others. He was especially eager to reflect his joy in Jesus so that others could see it. His courage came from knowing that Christ would always be with him and that Paul’s work would bring Christ praise and glory.

But what if he was not set free? What if they put him to death? Paul still expressed joy. While he was eager to continue his work for Jesus, he knew that when he died, he would be with Jesus—the one he served and told others about. When he went to heaven, there would be no more pain or suffering, only the joy of being with Jesus forever!

The choice of living or dying was not up to Paul, and it’s not up to us either. But, like Paul, we can live each day rejoicing because of what Jesus has done for us in forgiving our sins and preparing a place with him in heaven. Some days are hard. Some days are really hard. Even on the hard days, we can have hope and joy knowing that Jesus can bless all that we do. It’s all for his glory!

Life is a win-win. We get to live each day knowing Jesus is with us, forgives us, and loves us dearly. Someday, when it is God’s will, he will take us to be with him in heaven. For now, do what Paul did and share this amazing message of God’s grace with everyone around us. “I will continue to rejoice!”

Closing Prayer:

Gracious Savior, because of your love, we can face the challenges and hard times of this world. Calm our fears and give us joy in knowing that you are with us in all things. It’s in your name we pray. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Describe the two things that Paul knew might happen to him. How did Paul feel about both possibilities?
• What promise did Jesus make to Paul that he has also made to you to help when you are facing a hard thing?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Paul was in prison and yet he said, “I will continue to rejoice!” How could he be so happy in that very difficult situation?
• Paul did not say that we will never have hard days. When you are having a bad day, how can Paul’s words be a reminder to you and help calm any your fears?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Paul said, “For me to live is Christ.” What does this mean for you? What might that look like in your life?
• Describe a difficult situation you faced recently or are now facing. How can knowing that Christ is with you in all things help you to face a challenge with courage and with joy?

Hymn: CW 391:1,6 – God Loved the World So that He Gave

God loved the world so that he gave
His only Son the lost to save
That all who would in him believe
Should ever lasting life receive.

Glory to God the Father, Son,
And Holy Spirit, Three in One!
To you, O blessed Trinity,
Be praise now and eternally!

 

Read: Matthew 20:1-16

“But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Matthew 20:13-16

God Doesn’t Give as We Deserve

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“That’s not fair!” Have you ever said those words? Maybe you were on a team and the referee made a call that you didn’t agree with. Maybe Mom or Dad asked you to help with a task while your brother or sister got to go out and play.

We might think fair means that everyone gets the same. If someone in the family gets ice cream for dessert, you will likely get ice cream as well. If the rules in a game apply to one team, they should apply to both teams. That’s fair.

When we think about fair in that way, it can make Jesus’ story of the workers in the vineyard seem a bit confusing. A landowner hired a number of people to work for him. As he hired each one, he agreed to pay them a denarius (a Roman coin) for a full day’s work. Did you see what happened at the end of the day? Whether someone worked all day, a half-day, or just the last hour or so, they all got paid the same—one denarius. If you were one of the workers hired first that worked the entire day, your first reaction would likely be the same—“That’s not fair!” But is that really true? When the landowner hired the first workers, he agreed to pay them a denarius, and he kept his promise. That’s fair. It was up to the landowner what he would pay each person hired later. He was generous to every person who worked for him, no matter when they started.

Jesus is teaching us something about God’s grace and love for all people. His grace is not decided by how much we’ve done to earn it. To earn his grace, we would need to be perfect! If God was being fair by those standards, we wouldn’t deserve any of his grace, his forgiveness, his love. God gives us his grace and forgiveness as a gift. Why? He does it because he loves us so much. He is an amazingly generous God. He sent Jesus to take all the consequences we deserved. While it doesn’t seem fair that Jesus would take our punishment, it was God’s loving plan for you and for all people.

Rules in a game should be fair. God punishing us for all that we do wrong would be fair. Thank God he treats us according to his grace! God generously loves you and me so dearly that Jesus took care of all of our sins. Live each day knowing we are loved and forgiven by him.

Closing Prayer:

Merciful Father, thank you for not treating us in a way that we deserve but always treating us with your love and forgiveness. Help us to show that same love and forgiveness to our friends and family. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What does it mean to be fair?
• It seems fair that if you did something wrong, you should take the consequence. Why would Jesus pay for all your sins and for the sins of the whole world when he never did anything wrong?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain how the owner of the vineyard paid each worker fairly even though they worked different amounts of time.
• How does this explain what God does for each of us?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Today’s message is about fairness. If you reflect on all the things you do and know God expects us to be perfect, what would be fair?
• How does knowing that God doesn’t treat us in a way that’s fair, but rather in a way that’s grounded in his love, change how you think about how you treat others?

Hymn: CW 391:1,3 – God Loved the World So that He Gave

God loved the world so that he gave
His only Son the lost to save
That all who would in him believe
Should ever lasting life receive.

God would not have the sinner die—
His Son with saving grace is nigh.
His Spirit in the Word does teach
How we the blessed goal may reach.

 

Read: Genesis 50:15-21

When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “It may be that Joseph will hate us and will pay us back in full for all of the evil that we did to him.” … Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring this to pass and to keep many people alive, as it is this day. Now therefore, do not be afraid. I will nourish you and your little ones.”
Genesis 50:15,19-21

Joseph Forgave as God Does

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“I forgive you.” Those three words are some of the most powerful words you can say to someone. Those three words can also be some of the most unexpected words, especially if someone expects you to be angry with them.

Centuries ago, there was a family with twelve brothers. One brother named Joseph was his father’s favorite. His father showered him with extra gifts and extra attention. The young man daily reminded his brothers that he was the favorite. Soon the brothers were jealous, so jealous that some even considered ending their brother’s life. Instead, they did something just as awful. They sold him into slavery. He would be taken far away, owned by someone else, and forced to do their will. The brothers thought they would never see Joseph again, but God had other plans.

Years later, a terrible famine struck the land where that family lived. They did not have enough food for their families or their animals. The only place where food was available was the kingdom of Egypt. While there to purchase food, the brothers met a harsh ruler. Little did they realize that ruler was their younger brother Joseph. He was testing them to see if their hearts had changed. They had. With hugs and tears, Joseph revealed his true identity to his brothers. He provided a new home for his family. Even his elderly father came to Egypt. After his father died, the brothers started to worry. “Now that Dad is dead, will Joseph punish us for how we wronged him years ago?”

The brothers came to Joseph and even offered to be his slaves, but Joseph did something unexpected. He told them, “I forgive you.” He reminded them that they had no need to fear because God had other plans. God had taken their harmful acts and turned them into good. Many lives were saved, including their own, because the Lord brought Joseph to Egypt.

Do we forgive others like Joseph forgave his brothers? When someone says something unkind or does something mean to you, you might want to see them suffer at that moment. They deserve it, right? But God does not punish you as you deserve for your sins. God punished Jesus instead. Jesus suffered the consequences in your place so God would tell you, “I forgive you.” So, do not hold a grudge against a person who has wronged you. Instead, forgive them as God has forgiven you.

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, you are merciful and gracious. You forgive our sins though we do not deserve it. Help us to forgive those who sin against us as you have forgiven us. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What did Joseph’s brothers do to him that was so horrible?
• Instead of being angry, how did Joseph show love for his brothers?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain what it means to hold a grudge.
• How did God change the brothers’ sins against Joseph into a blessing?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How do you respond to someone who says, “Everyone should get what they deserve”?
• Pray out loud with your parents the Lord’s Prayer. Which words remind us forgive someone?

Hymn: CW 384:3,4 – By Grace I’m Saved

By grace! Oh, mark this word of promise when you are by your sins oppressed,
When Satan plagues your troubled conscience, and when your heart is seeking rest.
What reason cannot comprehend God by his grace to you did send.

By grace to timid hearts that tremble, in tribulation’s furnace tried—
By grace, despite all fear and trouble, the Father’s heart is open wide.
Where could I help and strength secure if grace were not my anchor sure?

 

Read: Romans 13:1-10

Do not owe anyone anything except to love one another, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments—do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not covet (and if there is any other commandment)—are summed up in this statement: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor, so love is the fulfillment of the law.
Romans 13:8-10

Love Guides Our Life

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Google the question “What is love?” and you will get 11,240,000,000 results! You will find countless explanations in poems and music, in long descriptions and single-word answers.

Some people will tell you that love is a romantic feeling—all hearts, flowers, and valentines. Others will tell you love is the close connection between husband and wife or parent and child. They all describe love in some way, but are any of those really what love is?

God’s Word is the only place that tells of a different kind of love—a love that cares more about someone else than about yourself; a love that will sacrifice everything for the sake of someone else even if they do not deserve it; a love that guides our lives. Only one person has ever shown that kind of love. His name is Jesus.

Jesus alone has shown us such undeserving love. Too often, we disobey him and the people he places over us to care for us. We are more interested in what we want than what God wants. Too often, we fail to show love towards our family, friends, or classmates. We run away from God and his will so we can do what we want to do, even if it might harm us or others.

Still, Jesus loves us! Jesus loves us with a love like no other. It’s why he became a human being like us and obeyed God’s holy will for us. It’s why he suffered and died on a cross to forgive all our sins and give us life. In powerful love, he rose from the dead! Why? Not because we deserve his love, but because we need his love.

Love is not what is owed to you by others, but a daily debt owed by you to everyone: like our neighbors, our families, our classmates and teachers at school, our fellow believers at church, and all the people in our communities. Guided by that love, we encourage. We serve. We support. We follow Jesus. We love.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you have loved me even though I never deserved it. Thank you for loving me first. Guide my life with your love so I reflect your love to others. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• How would you describe love?
• Ask a parent if they love you only when you are loveable or even when you are not so lovable? How does that reflect Jesus’ love?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain this sentence: Love your neighbor as yourself.
• How is the love of Jesus different from other kinds of love?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• In verse 10, we read, “Love does no harm to a neighbor.” Explain that phrase and why it is so important for us to remember that phrase right now.
• How does the self-sacrificing love of Jesus impact how you serve others at home? At school? At church? In our community?

Hymn: CW 304:3,7 – Jesus Sinners Does Receive

Sheep that from the fold did stray are not by the Lord forsaken;
Weary souls who lost their way are by Christ, the shepherd, taken
In his arms that they may live—Jesus sinners does receive.

Jesus sinners does receive. Even I have been forgiven.
And when I this earth must leave, I shall find an open heaven.
Dying, still to him I cleave—Jesus sinners does receive.

 

Read: Matthew 18:15-20

If your brother sins against you, go and show him his sin, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have regained your brother.
Matthew 18:15 (EHV)

Talk to Each Other in Love

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“Mah-ahm!!!” Mom knew that voice. Something had happened down the hall. Ruth’s brother said something mean. Ruth’s sister responded with something unkind. There was no way Ruth was going to let that mean word or unkind act go unnoticed. So she cried out, “Mah-ahm!!!”

Soon the kids would be standing in front of mom. Each child would present their side. Each child would try to avoid getting in trouble for what they actually did or said. Each child would argue louder and louder over the top of the other . . . until finally, Mom hands out consequences. Now, both children go away angry at each other and Mom.

What mom would want to be in that situation? Yet how often do we shout for “Mah-ahm!!!” when someone sins against us? We do not react calmly. We do not try to talk to the person who has wronged us. Instead, we get angry. We yell. We respond strongly and try to find someone who will hand out consequences on the sinner, all while conveniently forgetting that we are sinners too. If someone is not available to hand out consequences, we go and tell everyone how bad, rude, or unkind that person is without talking to them about how they have sinned against us.

Is that how God wants you to treat someone who has wronged you? No! Jesus encourages you, “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his sin, just between the two of you.” Jesus says nothing about going off, yelling, or telling on everyone else. Instead, he wants you to show love by calmly helping someone to see their sin.

Why does Jesus want you to do that? He wants you to regain them—to bring them back by helping them turn back from their sin back and follow Jesus. You see, Jesus loves them and cares for their soul as much as he loves and cares for yours. In love, Jesus came to forgive the sins of even the worst person you can think of, which means he came to forgive your sins, my sins, and the sins of those who wrong you.

The next time someone sins against you, what will you do? You could yell, “Mah-ahm!!!” Or you can remember how Jesus loves you and has forgiven you. Then, talk to that person out of love for their soul that they might enjoy Christ’s forgiveness too.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, in love you have forgiven my sins though I do not deserve it. Help me to forgive the person who sins against me. Help me to love them as you love me that I may bring them back to you. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• How do you sometimes react when someone is mean to you?
• Who should you talk to first if someone is mean to you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain what it means to repent.
• What does it mean to regain your brother or sister?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is it important to first talk to the person who sinned against you rather than talking to your friends or family members?
• Demonstrate how Jesus’s love and forgiveness for you can motivate you to speak with love and forgiveness to someone who has wronged you.

Hymn: CW 304:1,2 – Jesus Sinners Does Receive

Jesus sinners does receive; oh, may all this saying ponder
Who in sin’s delusions live and from God and heaven wander.
Here is hope for all who grieve—Jesus sinners does receive.

We deserve but grief and shame, yet his words, rich grace revealing,
Pardon, peace, and life proclaim; here their ills have perfect healing
Who with humble hearts believe—Jesus sinners does receive.

 

Read: Jeremiah 15:15-21

“I will make you a wall to this people,
a fortified wall of bronze;
they will fight against you
but will not overcome you,
for I am with you
to rescue and save you,”
declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 15:20

God Will Give You Strength

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Have you ever been to a castle before? There aren’t too many around the United States, but there are lots of castles in other parts of the world. If you ever have the chance, make sure you visit one. They are amazing! There are huge rooms, fancy furniture, beautiful artwork, and so much more. But maybe one of the coolest parts of a castle is the simplest part—the walls.

Castle walls are huge. They are big, solid, and very strong. They had to be though. The walls needed to protect everyone on the inside and keep all the enemies out. The stronger the walls were, the safer everyone would be. Some castles even had an extra wall around the entire property for extra strength and safety.

The prophet Jeremiah was a person who felt very unsafe. Sadly, his own people that he preached to also became his enemies. They didn’t like Jeremiah, and they definitely didn’t like his message from the Lord. This made Jeremiah feel sad, lonely, unsafe, and completely defeated.

God had another message to give though. This time it was for Jeremiah himself. God told Jeremiah to trust in him. God said, “I will make you a wall to this people.” God was going to give strength to Jeremiah to be like a castle wall. He would be strong and courageous and keep on preaching to them. The people would attack against him but wouldn’t defeat him. How could this be with so many enemies? “For I am with you to rescue and save you,” God said.

There are so many things that make us feel unsafe in life. There are many mean, wicked, and evil people in the world. Some people commit awful crimes. Some don’t like Christians and want to stop us from telling others about Jesus. Then, there are all the temptations and sins that we battle as we fight off the devil.

But don’t worry, Christian friends! Jesus has already defeated all of our enemies. The God who created this world also came to save this world. At the cross, Christ crushed Satan and saved us from sin and death. We are safe with him! Just as God told Jeremiah, so he tells you, “I am with you to rescue you and save you!” That’s right, with God on your side, you are a strong and mighty wall that will stand up against every enemy until you are safe forever in heaven!

Closing Prayer:

God, give me strength to stand firm in my faith and to be bold in sharing the good news of Jesus. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• How did Jesus show to us that he is stronger than any of our enemies?
• How does God protect us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How does God make us stronger as Christians?
• When are times today that people might feel defeated and lonely as Christians, kind of like the prophet Jeremiah felt?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain why remembering your baptism can be a source of strength every day.
• Explain why the Lord’s Supper can be a regular source of strength for those who commune.

Hymn: CW 465:1,2 – Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken

Jesus, I my cross have taken, All to leave and follow you.
Destitute, despised, forsaken, You on earth once suffered, too.
Perish ev’ry fond ambition, All I’ve ever hoped or known;
Yet how rich is my condition! God and heav’n are still my own.

Let the world despise and leave me; They have left my Savior, too.
Human hearts and looks deceive me; You are not, like them, untrue.
And since you have smiled upon me, God of wisdom, love, and might,
Foes may hate and friends may shun me—Show your face, and all is bright.

 

Read: Romans 11:33-36

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
“Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?”
“Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay them?”
For from him and through him and for him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Romans 11:33-36

God’s Mercy is for All People

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“I don’t get it!” Have you ever said that before? “I don’t get it, dad! I don’t know how to tie my shoes!” “I don’t get it! I don’t know how to play the game.” “I don’t get this math problem.”

There are so many things that we don’t get in life. Even as we grow older and learn from our parents or at school, we still struggle to understand different things.

You want to know what’s even harder to understand? God! But you probably already knew that. I bet you have had lots of tough “God questions” before. Why did God create the world in the first place? Why did he make Adam out of dust? Why did God make the sky blue and the grass green? Why did God make koala bears so cute? And why can’t God make my parents give me a new phone?

Maybe this one is the toughest: Why does God love us? Why would God love us when we sin and disobey him so much? How could he be so loving that he would send his Son Jesus to die for sinners? Why would God forgive me and welcome me to heaven one day? I don’t get it!

God’s Word for today reminds us that God’s love and wisdom are so great that we could never ever understand him. God is so great and so awesome that we humans won’t “get it” all the time. But do you know what we can do? We can praise and thank him every day! We may not understand how wonderful God is, but we definitely can say every day, “To God be the glory forever! Amen.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, I don’t always understand you. You are so big, great, powerful, and loving that I don’t get how amazing and awesome you are. But I do know that you love me. For that I will thank and praise you always. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is one big question you have always wondered about God?
• Name at least one awesome thing God has done that we can praise him for.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think there are so many things that we don’t know about God?
• Even though we don’t understand much about God, identify some things that God has made very clear to us.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain this statement: If God fit the thinking in your brain so you could understand him, he wouldn’t be much of a God.
• Explain how God showed his greatest wisdom in something so “foolish” as a person on a cross.

Hymn: CW 538:1,5 – The Church’s One Foundation

The Church’s one foundation Is Jesus Christ, her Lord;
She is his new creation By water and the Word.
From heav’n he came and sought her To be his holy bride;
With his own blood he bought her, And for her life he died.

Mid toil and tribulation And tumult of her war
She waits the consummation Of peace forevermore
Till with the vision glorious Her longing eyes are blest
And the great Church victorious Shall be the Church at rest.

 

Read: Matthew 16:13-20

Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

Matthew 16:16-18

Built on the Rock

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Brady couldn’t believe it! It was still there! A whole year later, and it was still standing!

Last summer, Brady and his sister had a little friendly competition. Their family was on vacation and stayed in a cabin near a lake. One afternoon the two decided to have their own lake cabin building competition. Over by the edge of the woods along the shore of the water, the two went to work with their creations. Brady’s sister grabbed everything she could for her mini-cabin—branches, leaves, mud. She wanted to use the branches and mud to shape the best-looking cabin ever. Brady, however, grabbed a bunch of stones. He found a big, huge, flat, and solid stone that was the foundation. Then he carefully chose and stacked up other stones on top of it as he made his “toughest” cabin ever.

A day later, the mud cabin was gone. It rained and the lake water rose up onto the shore, completely washing the cabin away. But Brady’s stone cabin still stood there. In fact, one year later when they returned, there it was! The cabin of stones was still standing, strong as ever! Brady wisely chose to build his cabin on a solid foundation.

We have a solid foundation, too! Jesus makes that very clear to us today. Jesus asked his disciples who other people thought he was. There were all kinds of interesting but wrong answers. Peter had the right one: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Peter believed in Jesus as the promised Savior who came to take away all our sins.

Jesus was happy with Peter’s answer because it was built on the rock-solid foundation that Jesus is the Messiah, the promised Savior. That is the solid foundation of his Church.

But watch out for mud and sand! Some people want to build faith on something besides Jesus. Some people believe if they are a good person, they can get into heaven. Some think Jesus was just a nice guy and a good teacher. Watch out! Those foundations will wash away! Build your trust on the rock-solid truth that Jesus is God’s own Son and your own Savior. That is a foundation that will never ever wash away!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help me to build my life on the rock-solid truth that you are my Savior from sin. Keep me firm in this faith. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Why would you want to build something on rock instead of sand?
• What makes Jesus strong like a rock?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is it dangerous to think that Jesus is just a good person, a good example, or a good teacher?
• Jesus said today that the gates of Hades (hell) are not strong enough to overpower his Church (us believers). Why is that so encouraging for your life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What are some of the other sandy, shaky foundations that people try to build their lives on in this world instead of Jesus?
• Explain this statement: The empty tomb proves to us that Jesus is a rock-solid foundation to trust in and build on.

Hymn: CW 538:1 – The Church’s One Foundation

The Church’s one foundation Is Jesus Christ, her Lord;
She is his new creation By water and the Word.
From heav’n he came and sought her To be his holy bride;
With his own blood he bought her, And for her life he died.