The Parent Weekly for March 10th, God Knows Everything
What we learned today
Big Idea: God Knows Everything.
Woman at the Well. John 1v1–42. Jesus spoke with a Samaritan woman.
Where we’re headed next time
Big Idea: Jesus Seeks and Saves.
Zacchaeus. Luke 19v1–10. Jesus went to Zaccheaus’ house.
Did you know?
Share these facts to get the conversation started:
Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector, which meant he was most likely a very wealthy man. Tax collectors were known for their shady dealings.
The Mosaic law was clear about what was required of men like Zacchaeus. Leviticus 6v2–5 says that if someone cheats a neighbor out of something, he must return it and add one-fifth of the value as a trespass offering. But Exodus 22v1 states that if a man steals something and is unable to return what he stole, he must pay back four times what he stole.
Because Zacchaeus’ heart had been changed by his encounter with Jesus, Zacchaeus declared he would do all that the law required—and more!
After making this declaration, Zacchaeus repented and turned from his sinful life.
Connect as a family
Have your children choose their two favorite toys. They can hold onto their toys while you read Luke 19v1–10. Explain to your children that after Zacchaeus met Jesus, he gave half of everything he owned to the poor. Next, ask your kids how they would feel if you asked them to give away one of their two toys. Discuss together how it might feel to give away things you love. Remind them that Jesus didn’t ask Zacchaeus to do this; Zacchaeus did it on his own because he was so grateful that Jesus saved him.
After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together:
What part of this encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus surprised you?
Who are the lost? Why did Jesus come to seek and save them?
How does it make you feel to know Jesus came to save you?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God seeks and saves into your everyday life as a family.
Blessing
Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide.
A blessing to pray over your child: (Child’s name), may you know the God who seeks after you. May you sense His closeness. May you be found in the One who provides the way back to your Heavenly Father.
