The Parent Weekly for May 5th, Jesus is Freedom
The Parent Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You’ll find out what they learned today at church and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Big Idea) and spending time together in God’s Word.
What we learned today
Big Idea: Jesus is Freedom
Rich Fool. Luke 12v13–21. Jesus told a parable about a rich fool.
Where we’re headed next time
Big Idea: The Father is Love
Prodigal Son. Luke 15v11–32. Jesus told a parable about a father who celebrated his prodigal son’s return.
Did you know?
Share these facts to get the conversation started:
In the beginning of Luke 15, we see tax gatherers and sinners coming to Jesus—something that bothered the Pharisees and scribes. In response to their unloving attitude, Jesus tells a series of three parables, all of which together point to one clear message: God rejoices when the lost are found. He is love.
In the first two stories, we read about a man who lost a sheep and a woman who lost a coin. Both stories end with rejoicing over the lost object being found. The third climactic parable also tells the story of something lost—this time, a wayward son.
The main point Jesus was making is that God rejoices when the lost are found and wants us to do the same. God loves it when His children come home, because God is love.
Connect as a family
One night this week, plan a special celebration. After dinner, have your children hide somewhere in the house. While they’re gone, set the table with a fun dessert. Let a little suspense build before you call them back. As they join you, celebrate by clapping and cheering; then enjoy dessert as you read Luke 15v11–32. Talk with your children about the father’s response to his son. Share that this is how God, our heavenly Father, feels about us. He loves us so much! The Father is love
After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together:
How do you think the father felt about his son’s request?
What surprised you about the father’s response to his son’s return?
What does this show us about God’s love for us?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God is love 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 that you’re a child of God. May you experience His love when you feel sad, confused, or lost. May you remember your Father will always respond to you in love, for He is love.
