This week's theme: "Watch out that you are not deceived"

From the desk of Ms. Kathleen Cook, Director of Religious Education

Theme: Luke 21:5-19 Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and warns his followers that persecution will come before the end time.


 
In Scripture today, Jesus had some things to say about people who claimed that they could predict the future. Jesus and his disciples were in the temple and the disciples were talking about how beautiful it was with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God. Jesus said to them, "The time is coming when all these things will be completely destroyed. Not one stone will be left on top of another; every one of them will be thrown down!"

The disciples were frightened by what Jesus said. "When will these things happen?" they asked. "What signs can we look for that will let us know that these things are about to take place?"

"Don't let anyone mislead you," Jesus answered. "Many will come in my name, claiming to be the Messiah, and saying, 'The time has come!' But don't believe them." You see, Jesus knew that these people could not see into the future. Only God can do that!

Heavenly Father, we don't know what the future holds, but we know that you hold the future. We know that we will be safe when we put our faith and trust in you. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
 
Making the Connection (Grades 1, 2, and 3): Younger children may not be aware of most world events, but they understand that life brings challenges. Help children understand that God cares for us and is with us during good times and difficult times.   
 
Making the Connection (Grades 4, 5, and 6): Children, while innocently naïve about most world events, are also profoundly sensitive to the concerns of adults. We can help children interpret adult concerns by sharing information about current events in appropriate ways. We can also put these concerns in the light of God's kingdom and the assurance of God's care for us.
 
Making the Connection (Grades 7 and 8): Young people at this age are already experiencing many of life's difficulties and challenges. It is important for them to understand that God is with them at these moments. This Sunday's reading reminds us that as followers of Jesus, we face many difficulties.
 
My Promise to Jesus: Lord, you are always with us. This week, I will write a beautiful prayer for you.
 
Reflect: If a word or phrase from the Gospel captures your heart, sit quietly for several minutes, repeating it to yourself and asking God to show you how it applies to your life.  What tempts teens to give up on trying to live the Christian life?
 
Suggested book that compliments today’s Gospel:
http://scu.edu/character/build-plant-grow/
A Child’s Book of Values
Written by Esteve Pujol i Pons
ISBN: 13:978-0809167654

Pray the mantra prayer of trust. “Lord Jesus Christ, I place my trust in You.” Recall this prayer and pray it in times where you feel overwhelmed, and remember that you can always trust Jesus.

Family Discussion: Children, while innocently naïve about most world events, are also profoundly sensitive to the concerns felt by adults. We can help children interpret adult concerns by sharing information about current events in appropriate ways. We can also put these concerns in the light of God's kingdom and the assurance of God's care for us.

Discuss with your children one or more current events or a situation in your family which shows difficulties that may challenge our trust in a God who cares for us. Then read together today's Gospel, Luke 21:5-19. Notice how Jesus said that even when his disciples are persecuted, God would be with them.
Together with your children, talk about ways in which God might bring good out of the difficult events you discussed. Talk together about some actions you might take as a family to make better the situations you discussed. Conclude by praying for the needs of the people involved in the events you named. In prayer, place each of these difficult situations into God's hands.