Research shows that parents are the single most influential factor in a child’s faith. 82% of kids whose parents talk about and practice faith at home go on to follow Jesus as adults, compared to 36% whose parents simply bring them to church. Alabaster Kids is one hour a week. You have the rest. We want to help you make the most of it.
Sunday’s Big Idea
Because God loves us, we offer him our lives, and he renews us to look more like Jesus instead of the world. In Romans 12:1-2, Paul says the world is always trying to press us into its shape, but God reshapes us when we entrust ourselves over to him, like Play-Doh in his hands. (This was the opening example for the elementary class). Toddlers through kindergarten heard the story of Zacchaeus, who met Jesus and was reshaped by his love from greedy to generous.
Memory Verse: Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)
Discuss
What are some things in the world that try to shape us to be selfish, angry, or proud? (Ads, shows, comparing ourselves to others, wanting our own way.)
If you wanted to become more loving, generous, or peaceful like Jesus, what habits might help? What could you pay attention to, read, or watch?
How did Jesus’s love change Zacchaeus? How do you think Zacchaeus kept being loving after Jesus left?
Practice: Prayer Practice
Start a family prayer rhythm this week by spending a few minutes with Jesus each day. Depending on your child’s age(s) this may work better together, or sending them out to try on their own.
Pick a quiet place. A cozy corner on the couch, their bedroom, the kitchen table, a spot on the porch, or maybe going for a walk.
Pick a time. Breakfast, after school, or before bedtime all work. Try to keep it the same every day.
Get quiet. Put phones and screens away and take three slow, deep breaths.
Pray a psalm. Read through a few verses of Psalm 23 or Psalm 139 out loud as your prayer to God. Don’t feel the need to rush through it, but to slow down and listen and look for how God’s Spirit might be speaking to you through the passage. The Bible is meant to be read less like a school exercise (as fast as possible, noticing the big details) and more like a great novel or a letter from a family member, slowly and attentively, paying attention to each word and phrase.