Monday, February 2, 2009

Follow-up: Jesus Loves Sinners

Story: Jesus is a Friend to Zacchaeus

Fundamental Truth: God is Good

Making it Real:
When Jesus told Zacchaeus that He wanted to spend time with him, the people who heard were angry. They wondered why Jesus would want to spend time with a sinner. Why did He?
Jesus came to save sinners. He came because we need a Rescuer who will save us from the pain of sin. Zacchaeus was full of sin because he took what wasn’t his, he lied, he cheated, he made himself the most important person. Jesus came to change the hearts of people like that. Zacchaeus knew he needed help, that’s why he worked so hard to see Jesus. Zacchaeus’ heart was ready to change and ready to put Jesus first.

Making it Stick:
Cook or bake with your child. Explain beforehand that you are going to give away what you are making to a friend and tell that friend the story of Zacchaeus turning away from sin and giving what he had to people in need. While you are baking, talk about how God changed Zacchaeus’ heart from sinful and dishonest and selfish to loving Jesus and desiring to do what’s right and be generous. Talk about how when God changes our hearts, we put Jesus in the number one spot and try to live life in a way that makes Him famous. Explain that loving and trusting Jesus helps us do good things but that doing good things is not what takes away our sin – only Jesus’ death on the cross could accomplish that.

No comments: