ELEMENTARY KIDS & FAMILIES date:
This resource is designed to allow your family to have time in God’s Word BEFORE your children attend church. Because God’s plan is for parents to be the primary spiritual nurturers of their children’s faith, we want YOU to be the one to introduce this part of The Big God Story to them. For additional support in spiritual parenting and to learn more about creating transforming environments in your home, be sure to pick up HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource from your church, or download it at HomeFrontMag.com. You can also access the HomeFront app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
3.11 The Father Is Love Part of The Big God Story Luke 15:11–32 Prodigal Son
Younger Kids
Did You Know? • 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.
Remember Verse
n Just forial Fu celebration. After dinner,
One night this week, plan a spec in the house. While they’re have your children hide somewhere ert. Let a little suspense gone, set the table with a fun dess they join you, celebrate by build before you call them back. As y dessert as you read enjo then ring; clapping and chee ren about the father’s Luke 15:11–32. Talk with your child is how God, our heavenly this that re Sha son. his to onse resp so much! The Father is love. Father, feels about us. He loves us
Children this age learn best while being active, and they tend to talk as they learn. Provide opportunities for your children to actively engage in the learning process—whether they’re learning a new skill, hearing about the Bible, or conquering a new subject in school.
Older Kids At this age, your child is probably starting to hone in on his moral compass. Parents have the unique opportunity to speak into a child’s life on a daily basis and help shape his worldview. Be willing to engage in challenging conversations to help your child navigate more abstract concepts.
Teachable Moments
Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. John 17:3
After reading Luke 15:11–32, discuss the following 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?
Blessing
For more information about blessing your child see the Blessing section in HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource.
A blessing to pray over your child:
© 2015 David C Cook. TruResources are developed in partnership with ROCKHARBOR Church and a national network of family and children’s ministry leaders. All rights reserved.
(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.