TINY SEEDS VIRTUAL STORYTIME
Chapter by chapter, we can spot Jesus’ presence both in the Old and New Testaments.
For 2024 we will be…..
For 2024 we will be…..
“UNWRAPPING THE MANY NAMES OF JESUS”
CLING TO JESUS FROM GENESIS TO REVELATIONS
THE MANY NAMES OF JESUS SO FAR:
SEED OF EVE AND REDEEMER (GENESIS)
PASSOVER LAMB AND NEW BEGINNING (EXODUS)
OUR HIGH PRIEST (LEVITICUS)
THE ONE LIFTED UP IN THE WILDERNESS (NUMBERS)
THE PROPHET LIKE MOSES (DEUTERONOMY)
CAPTAIN OF OUR SALVATION (JOSHUA)
JUDGE AND LAWGIVER (JUDGES)
KINSMAN REDEEMER (RUTH)
REJECTED KING (1 SAMUEL)
HEIR OF DAVID'S THRONE (2 SAMUEL)
OUR REIGNING KING (1-2 CHRONICLES)
REBUILDER OF THE BROKEN DOWN WALLS OF OUR LIFE (EZRA AND NEHEMIAH)
OUR PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTOR (ESTHER)
OUR MEDIATOR (JOB)
"Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue ackowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
(Philippians 2:9-11)
SEED OF EVE AND REDEEMER (GENESIS)
PASSOVER LAMB AND NEW BEGINNING (EXODUS)
OUR HIGH PRIEST (LEVITICUS)
THE ONE LIFTED UP IN THE WILDERNESS (NUMBERS)
THE PROPHET LIKE MOSES (DEUTERONOMY)
CAPTAIN OF OUR SALVATION (JOSHUA)
JUDGE AND LAWGIVER (JUDGES)
KINSMAN REDEEMER (RUTH)
REJECTED KING (1 SAMUEL)
HEIR OF DAVID'S THRONE (2 SAMUEL)
OUR REIGNING KING (1-2 CHRONICLES)
REBUILDER OF THE BROKEN DOWN WALLS OF OUR LIFE (EZRA AND NEHEMIAH)
OUR PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTOR (ESTHER)
OUR MEDIATOR (JOB)
"Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue ackowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
(Philippians 2:9-11)
WEEK #1- JESUS AS THE SEED OF EVE AND REDEEMER (GENESIS)
OLD TESTAMENT
"And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offsprint. He will strike your head and you will strike his heel."
(Genesis 3:15)
(There is a plan for a Savior to be born from a woman to defeat evil.)
NEW TESTAMENT
"Christ is the seed ofrah Abraham, and He fell into the earth to die to produce much fruit in resurrection."
(John 12:24)
(This savior will come from the bloodline)
From the very beginning, after the fall of man, God acknowledged that evil would be destroyed and goodness would prevail. As God in Genesis 3:15 promised, the head of the serpent would one day be crushed. That symbolizes God’s promise for a Savior.
FOR THE KIDS:
They need to understand that God had a plan from the very beginning for evil to be defeated. God always wins in the end. Even though we make bad choices like Adam and Eve, we have a Redeemer who loves us.
Our book this week is “The End of the Fiery Sword” by Maura Roan McKeegan
https://youtu.be/M9-QN1YFSo8?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
"And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offsprint. He will strike your head and you will strike his heel."
(Genesis 3:15)
(There is a plan for a Savior to be born from a woman to defeat evil.)
NEW TESTAMENT
"Christ is the seed ofrah Abraham, and He fell into the earth to die to produce much fruit in resurrection."
(John 12:24)
(This savior will come from the bloodline)
From the very beginning, after the fall of man, God acknowledged that evil would be destroyed and goodness would prevail. As God in Genesis 3:15 promised, the head of the serpent would one day be crushed. That symbolizes God’s promise for a Savior.
FOR THE KIDS:
They need to understand that God had a plan from the very beginning for evil to be defeated. God always wins in the end. Even though we make bad choices like Adam and Eve, we have a Redeemer who loves us.
Our book this week is “The End of the Fiery Sword” by Maura Roan McKeegan
https://youtu.be/M9-QN1YFSo8?feature=shared
WEEK #2-JESUS AS THE LAMB OF THE PASSOVER (EXODUS)
OLD TESTAMENT
"Your lamb shall be without blemish."
(Exodus 12:5)
NEW TESTAMENT
"Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."
(John 1:29)
"I pray that you....may have power....to grasp how wide and how long and deep is the love of God."
(Ephesians 3:17-18)
God showed the people from the very beginning that sin causes separation from God. Sin and God never go together. The practice of sacrifice in the Old Testament however allowed for a “renewed relationship” with Him. It would never be like the relationship they enjoyed in the Garden of Eden but the performance of sacrifices did offer a reconnection to their God until they sinned again. We read about the first sacrifices of Cain and Abel, Noah, and Abraham in the Book of Genesis. These were constant daily practices that had to be pleasing to God in order to be acceptable. There were both fruit and vegetable as well as animal sacrifices. Now we come to the Book of Exodus. We read how God gave Moses specific instructions on how to perform the Passover sacrifices by requiring the sacrifice to be a perfect unblemished lamb, hence foreshadowing the coming of a Savior one day. God had a plan and Jesus Christ was already in the picture. He eventually became the ultimate sacrifice, once and for all time, delivering us from our sin and restoring a personal relationship with Him forever. He died on the cross as the perfect unblemished sacrifice for our sin. Our second name for Jesus is the passover lamb, .indicating a new start.)
FOR THE KIDS, they simply need to understand that Jesus lived a perfect life and died innocently on the cross for our sins because He loves us and desires to have a relationship with us. God always gives only His best to us.
Our book this week are:
I Love You This Much by John Bendall Brunello
https://youtu.be/YOm0clwFTHY?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
"Your lamb shall be without blemish."
(Exodus 12:5)
NEW TESTAMENT
"Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."
(John 1:29)
"I pray that you....may have power....to grasp how wide and how long and deep is the love of God."
(Ephesians 3:17-18)
God showed the people from the very beginning that sin causes separation from God. Sin and God never go together. The practice of sacrifice in the Old Testament however allowed for a “renewed relationship” with Him. It would never be like the relationship they enjoyed in the Garden of Eden but the performance of sacrifices did offer a reconnection to their God until they sinned again. We read about the first sacrifices of Cain and Abel, Noah, and Abraham in the Book of Genesis. These were constant daily practices that had to be pleasing to God in order to be acceptable. There were both fruit and vegetable as well as animal sacrifices. Now we come to the Book of Exodus. We read how God gave Moses specific instructions on how to perform the Passover sacrifices by requiring the sacrifice to be a perfect unblemished lamb, hence foreshadowing the coming of a Savior one day. God had a plan and Jesus Christ was already in the picture. He eventually became the ultimate sacrifice, once and for all time, delivering us from our sin and restoring a personal relationship with Him forever. He died on the cross as the perfect unblemished sacrifice for our sin. Our second name for Jesus is the passover lamb, .indicating a new start.)
FOR THE KIDS, they simply need to understand that Jesus lived a perfect life and died innocently on the cross for our sins because He loves us and desires to have a relationship with us. God always gives only His best to us.
Our book this week are:
I Love You This Much by John Bendall Brunello
https://youtu.be/YOm0clwFTHY?feature=shared
WEEK #3-JESUS AS THE ULTIMATE HIGH PRIEST (LEVITICUS)
OLD TESTAMENT
".......he has been dedicated by the anointing oil of his God."
(Leviticus 21:12)
NEW TESTAMENT
“And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was. In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, ‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father.”
(Paul explained how the high priest in Israel was only a symbol of their real high priest, Jesus Christ.)
Did you know that in the Book of Leviticus we read that the priests of Israel were the only ones who could offer sacrifices? The people had to go through these anointed priests in order to receive a restored relationship with God after committing a sin. Just like the high priest of the Old Testament, Jesus interceded on our behalf. We might add that these earthly priests in the Old Testament could not totally satisfy the wrath of God because even they were imperfect humans. Once again, we foreshadow the coming of Jesus. Our third name for Jesus is the ULTIMATE HIGH PRIEST. He stood in the gap between our sins and God and restored our relationship once and for all .
FOR THE KIDS: They need to know that Jesus is available to them 24/7. They can pray anytime, anywhere, and in many ways. They can have a personal relationship with Him.
Our book this week is
Can I Pray With My Eyes Open? by Susan Taylor Brown
https://youtu.be/eZAjHVbZnN4?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
".......he has been dedicated by the anointing oil of his God."
(Leviticus 21:12)
NEW TESTAMENT
“And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was. In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, ‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father.”
(Paul explained how the high priest in Israel was only a symbol of their real high priest, Jesus Christ.)
Did you know that in the Book of Leviticus we read that the priests of Israel were the only ones who could offer sacrifices? The people had to go through these anointed priests in order to receive a restored relationship with God after committing a sin. Just like the high priest of the Old Testament, Jesus interceded on our behalf. We might add that these earthly priests in the Old Testament could not totally satisfy the wrath of God because even they were imperfect humans. Once again, we foreshadow the coming of Jesus. Our third name for Jesus is the ULTIMATE HIGH PRIEST. He stood in the gap between our sins and God and restored our relationship once and for all .
FOR THE KIDS: They need to know that Jesus is available to them 24/7. They can pray anytime, anywhere, and in many ways. They can have a personal relationship with Him.
Our book this week is
Can I Pray With My Eyes Open? by Susan Taylor Brown
https://youtu.be/eZAjHVbZnN4?feature=shared
WEEK #4 - JESUS-THE ONE LIFTED UP IN THE WILDERNESS OF SIN (NUMBERS)
OLD TESTAMENT
“So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived.”
(Numbers 21:9)
NEW TESTAMENT
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life.”
(John 3:14-16)
(In His conversations with a man named Nicodemus, Jesus compares Himself to the bronze snake in the Old Testament)
What thoughts go through your mind when you see an image of Jesus on a cross? Some denominations have just the cross while others have Jesus on the cross and the reasoning in both cases support their choices. Both are good. It’s important to look directly into the eyes of suffering and see hope. Can you look at those images of the cross or face true suffering yourself with expectancy and hope? In the Book of Numbers, after the people turned away from God and disobeyed Him, He sent venomous snakes and many were bitten and got sick. God told Moses to put a bronze snake on a pole and tell the Israelites that those who looked at the bronze snake and believed in Him would be saved. It might seem strange that simply looking at a snake on a pole could heal someone but it was more about believing and obeying. Those who chose not to look at the snake and trust, did not get better.
Our name for Jesus this week is THE ONE LIFTED UP IN THE WILDERNESS OF SIN.
FOR THE KIDS:
It’s important for the kids to understand that God made promises and God always keeps His promises. He always provides a way to save us but we must first act upon His promises by believing and obeying Him. We must come to Jesus, look into His face and know without any doubt that He CAN and He WILL save those who believe.
Our book this week is:
Moses and the Bronze Snake by Akram Zaki
https://youtu.be/-IRiQ7jvwwE
(People disobey but God provides a way. But first, people have to choose to believe.)
OLD TESTAMENT
“So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived.”
(Numbers 21:9)
NEW TESTAMENT
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life.”
(John 3:14-16)
(In His conversations with a man named Nicodemus, Jesus compares Himself to the bronze snake in the Old Testament)
What thoughts go through your mind when you see an image of Jesus on a cross? Some denominations have just the cross while others have Jesus on the cross and the reasoning in both cases support their choices. Both are good. It’s important to look directly into the eyes of suffering and see hope. Can you look at those images of the cross or face true suffering yourself with expectancy and hope? In the Book of Numbers, after the people turned away from God and disobeyed Him, He sent venomous snakes and many were bitten and got sick. God told Moses to put a bronze snake on a pole and tell the Israelites that those who looked at the bronze snake and believed in Him would be saved. It might seem strange that simply looking at a snake on a pole could heal someone but it was more about believing and obeying. Those who chose not to look at the snake and trust, did not get better.
Our name for Jesus this week is THE ONE LIFTED UP IN THE WILDERNESS OF SIN.
FOR THE KIDS:
It’s important for the kids to understand that God made promises and God always keeps His promises. He always provides a way to save us but we must first act upon His promises by believing and obeying Him. We must come to Jesus, look into His face and know without any doubt that He CAN and He WILL save those who believe.
Our book this week is:
Moses and the Bronze Snake by Akram Zaki
https://youtu.be/-IRiQ7jvwwE
(People disobey but God provides a way. But first, people have to choose to believe.)
WEEK #5-JESUS THE PROPHET LIKE MOSES (DEUTERONOMY)
OLD TESTAMENT
“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.
(Deuteronomy 18:18)
NEW TESTAMENT
For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you
(Acts 3:22)
Most people already know that Jesus was a prophet so our unwrapped name this week doesn’t really come as a surprise. Jesus’ name this week is A PROPHET. To explain the word, prophet, to a child, we might say this is someone whom God speaks to directly and one whom delivers a message from God. Why can’t God just deliver the message Himself? We know that God and sin cannot be together “in the same room” so to speak. and so it is imperative that a third-party person deliver these messages. The first prophet in the Bible was Abraham. A second great prophet Moses delivered God’s law to the people in the Book of Leviticus. There were many more major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. The minor prophets were not minor in the importance of their messages but only minor in text size. All prophecies were important! In the New Testament, Jesus became the greatest prophet of all time. We still have prophets today but perhaps there is more diverse reasoning about identification of prophets and false teaching. Be careful!! The Bible warns us against false prophets. Hold up the messages to the truth of God’s Word.
FOR THE KIDS: They need to understand that rules are good. God’s rules are the best. God’s expectations have not changed. God provides people in our lives to guide us and explain these expectations, guidelines, and rules. Yes, we can all have a relationship but prophets were special. Do you remember those first days in a school classroom setting where the teacher always went over the rules? Don’t forget the dos and don’t of life. Just like prophets deliver God’s messages, parents and good teachers can help us understand what is expected of us.
Our book this week is:
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
https://youtu.be/ZHCKO-0aZlo?feature=shared
(Knowing and doing the right thing is best. Freedom from rules isn’t always the best choice. Listen and obey the messenger.)
OLD TESTAMENT
“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.
(Deuteronomy 18:18)
NEW TESTAMENT
For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you
(Acts 3:22)
Most people already know that Jesus was a prophet so our unwrapped name this week doesn’t really come as a surprise. Jesus’ name this week is A PROPHET. To explain the word, prophet, to a child, we might say this is someone whom God speaks to directly and one whom delivers a message from God. Why can’t God just deliver the message Himself? We know that God and sin cannot be together “in the same room” so to speak. and so it is imperative that a third-party person deliver these messages. The first prophet in the Bible was Abraham. A second great prophet Moses delivered God’s law to the people in the Book of Leviticus. There were many more major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. The minor prophets were not minor in the importance of their messages but only minor in text size. All prophecies were important! In the New Testament, Jesus became the greatest prophet of all time. We still have prophets today but perhaps there is more diverse reasoning about identification of prophets and false teaching. Be careful!! The Bible warns us against false prophets. Hold up the messages to the truth of God’s Word.
FOR THE KIDS: They need to understand that rules are good. God’s rules are the best. God’s expectations have not changed. God provides people in our lives to guide us and explain these expectations, guidelines, and rules. Yes, we can all have a relationship but prophets were special. Do you remember those first days in a school classroom setting where the teacher always went over the rules? Don’t forget the dos and don’t of life. Just like prophets deliver God’s messages, parents and good teachers can help us understand what is expected of us.
Our book this week is:
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
https://youtu.be/ZHCKO-0aZlo?feature=shared
(Knowing and doing the right thing is best. Freedom from rules isn’t always the best choice. Listen and obey the messenger.)
WEEK #6-JESUS AS THE CAPTAIN OF OUR SALVATION (JOSHUA)
OLD TESTAMENT
“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.
(Deuteronomy 18:18)
NEW TESTAMENT
For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you
(Acts 3:22)
Most people already know that Jesus was a prophet so our unwrapped name this week doesn’t really come as a surprise. Jesus’ name this week is A PROPHET. To explain the word, prophet, to a child, we might say this is someone whom God speaks to directly and one whom delivers a message from God. Why can’t God just deliver the message Himself? We know that God and sin cannot be together “in the same room” so to speak. and so it is imperative that a third-party person deliver these messages. The first prophet in the Bible was Abraham. A second great prophet Moses delivered God’s law to the people in the Book of Leviticus. There were many more major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. The minor prophets were not minor in the importance of their messages but only minor in text size. All prophecies were important! In the New Testament, Jesus became the greatest prophet of all time. We still have prophets today but perhaps there is more diverse reasoning about identification of prophets and false teaching. Be careful!! The Bible warns us against false prophets. Hold up the messages to the truth of God’s Word.
FOR THE KIDS: They need to understand that rules are good. God’s rules are the best. God’s expectations have not changed. God provides people in our lives to guide us and explain these expectations, guidelines, and rules. Yes, we can all have a relationship but prophets were special. Do you remember those first days in a school classroom setting where the teacher always went over the rules? Don’t forget the dos and don’t of life. Just like prophets deliver God’s messages, parents and good teachers can help us understand what is expected of us.
Our book this week is:
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
https://youtu.be/ZHCKO-0aZlo?feature=shared
(Knowing and doing the right thing is best. Freedom from rules isn’t always the best choice. Listen and obey the messenger.)
OLD TESTAMENT
“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.
(Deuteronomy 18:18)
NEW TESTAMENT
For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you
(Acts 3:22)
Most people already know that Jesus was a prophet so our unwrapped name this week doesn’t really come as a surprise. Jesus’ name this week is A PROPHET. To explain the word, prophet, to a child, we might say this is someone whom God speaks to directly and one whom delivers a message from God. Why can’t God just deliver the message Himself? We know that God and sin cannot be together “in the same room” so to speak. and so it is imperative that a third-party person deliver these messages. The first prophet in the Bible was Abraham. A second great prophet Moses delivered God’s law to the people in the Book of Leviticus. There were many more major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. The minor prophets were not minor in the importance of their messages but only minor in text size. All prophecies were important! In the New Testament, Jesus became the greatest prophet of all time. We still have prophets today but perhaps there is more diverse reasoning about identification of prophets and false teaching. Be careful!! The Bible warns us against false prophets. Hold up the messages to the truth of God’s Word.
FOR THE KIDS: They need to understand that rules are good. God’s rules are the best. God’s expectations have not changed. God provides people in our lives to guide us and explain these expectations, guidelines, and rules. Yes, we can all have a relationship but prophets were special. Do you remember those first days in a school classroom setting where the teacher always went over the rules? Don’t forget the dos and don’t of life. Just like prophets deliver God’s messages, parents and good teachers can help us understand what is expected of us.
Our book this week is:
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
https://youtu.be/ZHCKO-0aZlo?feature=shared
(Knowing and doing the right thing is best. Freedom from rules isn’t always the best choice. Listen and obey the messenger.)
WEEK #7-JESUS AS OUR JUDGE AND LAWKEEPER (JUDGES)
OLD TESTAMENT
“Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hand of those who plundered them.
(Judges 2:16-19)
“For the Lord is our judge; the Lord is our lawgiver; the Lord is our king; he will save.”
(Isaiah 32:22)
“For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”
(2 Corinthians 5:10
"Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
(Luke 6:31)
So often we hear the words, “That’s not fair!” There is always a wide variety of responses. The truth is life isn’t fair except at the foot of the cross. In the Old Testament, especially the Book of Judges, God provided judges/people who decided upon issues of justice. Today we also have judges in the courtrooms to decide upon these matters, but the only true judge is Jesus. We will stand before Jesus and He will plead our case, standing in the gap between us and our eternal home. Just as those Old Testament judges pleaded and made sacrifices on behalf the Israelites, so does Jesus do the same for us today.
Our name for Jesus this week is JUDGE. Only Jesus reigns over true justice.
FOR THE KIDS:
Children once again need to understand that life doesn’t always seem fair. God makes many promises in the Bible but He doesn’t promise that earthly life will be fair. However, He does promise us grace and an eternal home. No one gets the same, no one even gets what they desire or deserve, and quite frankly it’s not about us being successful in our own selves. Instead, everyone gets what they need to fulfill their God-given purpose. Still, we must be kind and loving and treat others the way we would like to be treated. (Luke 6:31)
Our book this week is:
Sister Bear and the Golden Rule by Jan and Stan Bereinstein
https://youtu.be/YuegeOfyaCg?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hand of those who plundered them.
(Judges 2:16-19)
“For the Lord is our judge; the Lord is our lawgiver; the Lord is our king; he will save.”
(Isaiah 32:22)
“For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”
(2 Corinthians 5:10
"Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
(Luke 6:31)
So often we hear the words, “That’s not fair!” There is always a wide variety of responses. The truth is life isn’t fair except at the foot of the cross. In the Old Testament, especially the Book of Judges, God provided judges/people who decided upon issues of justice. Today we also have judges in the courtrooms to decide upon these matters, but the only true judge is Jesus. We will stand before Jesus and He will plead our case, standing in the gap between us and our eternal home. Just as those Old Testament judges pleaded and made sacrifices on behalf the Israelites, so does Jesus do the same for us today.
Our name for Jesus this week is JUDGE. Only Jesus reigns over true justice.
FOR THE KIDS:
Children once again need to understand that life doesn’t always seem fair. God makes many promises in the Bible but He doesn’t promise that earthly life will be fair. However, He does promise us grace and an eternal home. No one gets the same, no one even gets what they desire or deserve, and quite frankly it’s not about us being successful in our own selves. Instead, everyone gets what they need to fulfill their God-given purpose. Still, we must be kind and loving and treat others the way we would like to be treated. (Luke 6:31)
Our book this week is:
Sister Bear and the Golden Rule by Jan and Stan Bereinstein
https://youtu.be/YuegeOfyaCg?feature=shared
WEEK #8 -JESUS AS OUR KINDSMAN REDEEMER (BOOK OF RUTH)
OLD TESTAMENT
“…..Take my right of redemption……Now this was the custom in former times in Israel concerning redeeming : to confirm a transaction, the one drew off his sandal……”
(Ruth 4:6-7)
NEW TESTAMENT
“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
(Hebrews 2:18)
Are you familiar with the term “kinsman redeemer”? In short, this is “a relative who, at his own expense, pays off the debts of another.” According to those old laws of the Old Testament, a male relative had the responsibility or privilege (whichever way they chose to view this) of “stepping up to the plate” and vindicating another relative’s debt. One example of this was when Boaz, who was a relative of Ruth, helped her to overcome her financial burdens by marrying her. He was a relative of her deceased husband and did this out of his love for her. He assumed the role as Ruth’s redeemer from Elimelech, who was next in line but gave this privilege to Boaz.
Can you imagine one of your distant relatives just stepping in and helping you get back on your feet after hardship, even when you did nothing to merit it?
We hear about “debt forgiveness” often in the world today. A debt is usually something you should take personal responsibility for; however, I do recall my parents helping out a lot when I was a student in college. I was careful to pay my parents back in other ways but their financial assistance was an act of love towards me. In much the same way that Boaz was Ruth’s kinsman redeemer, so is Jesus to us. There is a price to pay for sin and Jesus paid that debt in full when He died for our sins on the cross. He became our KINSMAN REDEEMER.
FOR THE KIDS:
For this Jesus’ name, I think it’s important for kids to simply understand that though our actions matter, we can’t buy God’s favor. It’s a gift from our Heavenly Father. It’s important to want to please God, but He simply paid the price for our sins only because He loves us that much. What a friend we have in Jesus!
Our book this week is:
If Jesus Came To Visit Me by Jill Roman Lord
https://youtu.be/tb-QisgCQ30?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“…..Take my right of redemption……Now this was the custom in former times in Israel concerning redeeming : to confirm a transaction, the one drew off his sandal……”
(Ruth 4:6-7)
NEW TESTAMENT
“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
(Hebrews 2:18)
Are you familiar with the term “kinsman redeemer”? In short, this is “a relative who, at his own expense, pays off the debts of another.” According to those old laws of the Old Testament, a male relative had the responsibility or privilege (whichever way they chose to view this) of “stepping up to the plate” and vindicating another relative’s debt. One example of this was when Boaz, who was a relative of Ruth, helped her to overcome her financial burdens by marrying her. He was a relative of her deceased husband and did this out of his love for her. He assumed the role as Ruth’s redeemer from Elimelech, who was next in line but gave this privilege to Boaz.
Can you imagine one of your distant relatives just stepping in and helping you get back on your feet after hardship, even when you did nothing to merit it?
We hear about “debt forgiveness” often in the world today. A debt is usually something you should take personal responsibility for; however, I do recall my parents helping out a lot when I was a student in college. I was careful to pay my parents back in other ways but their financial assistance was an act of love towards me. In much the same way that Boaz was Ruth’s kinsman redeemer, so is Jesus to us. There is a price to pay for sin and Jesus paid that debt in full when He died for our sins on the cross. He became our KINSMAN REDEEMER.
FOR THE KIDS:
For this Jesus’ name, I think it’s important for kids to simply understand that though our actions matter, we can’t buy God’s favor. It’s a gift from our Heavenly Father. It’s important to want to please God, but He simply paid the price for our sins only because He loves us that much. What a friend we have in Jesus!
Our book this week is:
If Jesus Came To Visit Me by Jill Roman Lord
https://youtu.be/tb-QisgCQ30?feature=shared
WEEK #9 - Jesus as the REJECTED KING (BOOK OF 1 SAMUEL)
OLD TESTAMENT
“….Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.”
(1 Samuel 15:23)
NEW TESTAMENT
"This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you the builders which has become the cornerstone."
(Acts 4:11)
To reject is to refuse to accept or believe something or someone. As Christians with free will we pick and choose what we want to believe. However, God expects total obedience through His Word so these choices should be pleasing to Him. He has given us standards and He cannot accept disobedience even though He forgives us over and over.
Often we might have to choose between our own selfish desires, the world’s way, or God’s way. In the Old Testament we read the story of how God chose Saul to be King. Unfortunately, as king, Saul became arrogant and took matters into his own hands. As a result his kingship was rejected by God. Jesus too felt rejection but unlike Saul, he was rejected by many of His peers. He was crucified and mocked as “King of the Jews”. Our name for Jesus this week is REJECTED KING.
FOR THE KIDS
Knowing expectations and being totally obedient is important. It starts at home by listening to our parents and reading our Bibles. There are many choices in life but always be obedient to parents, teachers, and Godly leaders. Don’t follow the ways of the world but rather strive to please God.
Our book this week is:
King Hugo’s Huge Ego by Chris Van Dusen
https://youtu.be/sQwDPD56fA8?feature=shared
(Never let your ego float you away from God and always do His will. It is better to be rejected by the world than to disappoint God)
OLD TESTAMENT
“….Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.”
(1 Samuel 15:23)
NEW TESTAMENT
"This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you the builders which has become the cornerstone."
(Acts 4:11)
To reject is to refuse to accept or believe something or someone. As Christians with free will we pick and choose what we want to believe. However, God expects total obedience through His Word so these choices should be pleasing to Him. He has given us standards and He cannot accept disobedience even though He forgives us over and over.
Often we might have to choose between our own selfish desires, the world’s way, or God’s way. In the Old Testament we read the story of how God chose Saul to be King. Unfortunately, as king, Saul became arrogant and took matters into his own hands. As a result his kingship was rejected by God. Jesus too felt rejection but unlike Saul, he was rejected by many of His peers. He was crucified and mocked as “King of the Jews”. Our name for Jesus this week is REJECTED KING.
FOR THE KIDS
Knowing expectations and being totally obedient is important. It starts at home by listening to our parents and reading our Bibles. There are many choices in life but always be obedient to parents, teachers, and Godly leaders. Don’t follow the ways of the world but rather strive to please God.
Our book this week is:
King Hugo’s Huge Ego by Chris Van Dusen
https://youtu.be/sQwDPD56fA8?feature=shared
(Never let your ego float you away from God and always do His will. It is better to be rejected by the world than to disappoint God)
WEEK #10 - JESUS AS THE HEIR OF DAVID'S THRONE (BOOK OF 2 SAMUEL)
OLD TESTAMENT
“When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one
who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever…”
(2 Samuel 14:12-13)
NEW TESTAMENT
“…I am the Root and the offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
(Revelation 22:16)
God promised Abraham that he would He would give him many descendants and the land of Canaan.His descendants would be as many as the stars in the sky. King David who was a descendant of Abraham was also given a promise by God. Though it is disputed by some who say it is a conditional promise and based on the people’s obedience, I believe it is a continuation of the original promise to Abraham. (“I will establish his kingdom forever if he is unswerving in carrying out my commands and laws…..”. Chronicles 28:7). We all know the people certainly did not keep their end of the deal. But, I choose to believe that the Promised Kingdom remained despite a continued line of good and bad kings and the eventual capture of the Kingdom. Jesus name this week is HEIR TO THE THRONE. He was a descendant of Abraham and David and the Savior promised.
FOR THE KIDS
Kids need to understand that God always keeps His promises. A promise to anyone should be taken seriously. We all fall short in our goodness but God is perfect in every way. He made over 8,000 promises in the Bible and He has kept every single one of them.)
Our book this week is
I Promise”by David McPhai
https://youtu.be/f7bt0PQfgkM?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one
who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever…”
(2 Samuel 14:12-13)
NEW TESTAMENT
“…I am the Root and the offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
(Revelation 22:16)
God promised Abraham that he would He would give him many descendants and the land of Canaan.His descendants would be as many as the stars in the sky. King David who was a descendant of Abraham was also given a promise by God. Though it is disputed by some who say it is a conditional promise and based on the people’s obedience, I believe it is a continuation of the original promise to Abraham. (“I will establish his kingdom forever if he is unswerving in carrying out my commands and laws…..”. Chronicles 28:7). We all know the people certainly did not keep their end of the deal. But, I choose to believe that the Promised Kingdom remained despite a continued line of good and bad kings and the eventual capture of the Kingdom. Jesus name this week is HEIR TO THE THRONE. He was a descendant of Abraham and David and the Savior promised.
FOR THE KIDS
Kids need to understand that God always keeps His promises. A promise to anyone should be taken seriously. We all fall short in our goodness but God is perfect in every way. He made over 8,000 promises in the Bible and He has kept every single one of them.)
Our book this week is
I Promise”by David McPhai
https://youtu.be/f7bt0PQfgkM?feature=shared
WEEK #11 - JESUS AS OUR REIGNING KING (BOOKS OF 1-2 CHRONICLES)
OLD TESTAMENT
"Praise be to you Lord, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord is the kingdom."
(1 Chronicles 29:10-12)
(this is one of David’s many prayers praising God.)
TESTAMENT
“The whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord.”
(Luke 19:37-38)
In Week #9 we spoke of Jesus as the rejected king. He was rejected by many people but in truth He became OUR REIGNING KING. In the Old Testament, God always gave splendor to the good kings, who recognized His greatness. On the other hand, the earthly life of Jesus was far less than splendorous. However, upon His death and resurrection, He revealed God’s great beauty and love. The resurrection became an event of admiration and a clear signal that Jesus was the powerful Son of God who conquered death and became our REIGNING KING for evermore. Through His death, we acknowledge the greatness of a God who loves us. Jesus was different from the other reigning kings of the Old Testament because He came to serve rather than be served. Also, He didn’t come to protect His life but instead gave it up as a ransom for others.
FOR THE KIDS
Kids need to be told the simple but total truth of Jesus death and resurrection. As you celebrate the upcoming Easter, remember to include the story of Easter from the Bible.
Our books this week are:
Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist
https://youtu.be/2b5A994LdfA?feature=shared
What is Easter? by Phil Visher
https://youtu.be/gCE1V7wq8NM?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
"Praise be to you Lord, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord is the kingdom."
(1 Chronicles 29:10-12)
(this is one of David’s many prayers praising God.)
TESTAMENT
“The whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord.”
(Luke 19:37-38)
In Week #9 we spoke of Jesus as the rejected king. He was rejected by many people but in truth He became OUR REIGNING KING. In the Old Testament, God always gave splendor to the good kings, who recognized His greatness. On the other hand, the earthly life of Jesus was far less than splendorous. However, upon His death and resurrection, He revealed God’s great beauty and love. The resurrection became an event of admiration and a clear signal that Jesus was the powerful Son of God who conquered death and became our REIGNING KING for evermore. Through His death, we acknowledge the greatness of a God who loves us. Jesus was different from the other reigning kings of the Old Testament because He came to serve rather than be served. Also, He didn’t come to protect His life but instead gave it up as a ransom for others.
FOR THE KIDS
Kids need to be told the simple but total truth of Jesus death and resurrection. As you celebrate the upcoming Easter, remember to include the story of Easter from the Bible.
Our books this week are:
Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist
https://youtu.be/2b5A994LdfA?feature=shared
What is Easter? by Phil Visher
https://youtu.be/gCE1V7wq8NM?feature=shared
WEEKK #12 - JESUS AS REBUILDER OF BROKEN LIVES (EZRA AND NEHEMIAH)
OLD TESTAMENT
“So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together into the half thereof; for the people had a mind to work.”
(Nehemiah 4:6)
NEW TESTAMENT
And the God of all Grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.”
1 Peter 5:20)
In the Old Testament the Israelites build walls around their cities. These provided protection and a sense of belonging. When their enemies attacked, these walls were destroyed and the cities were captured. After being held in captivity for years, the Israelites were allowed to return back to their homelands. In the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah, they were directed to rebuild the temple and walls of Jerusalem.
In much this same way, sometimes the walls of our life feel broken down. We feel our defenses have been crushed. We feel very vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy.
Our name this week for Jesus is REBUILDER OF THE WALLS OF OUR BROKEN LIVES. We are all broken from the weigh of sin and are in need of a Savior.
FOR THE KIDS:
Kids love to build blocks. They can learn very early the skills of starting with a good foundation. They need to understand that good foundations come from Bible based lives.
Our book this week is:
Nehemiah’s Greatest Day by Penny Frank
https://youtu.be/aBmoJj55Lmk?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together into the half thereof; for the people had a mind to work.”
(Nehemiah 4:6)
NEW TESTAMENT
And the God of all Grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.”
1 Peter 5:20)
In the Old Testament the Israelites build walls around their cities. These provided protection and a sense of belonging. When their enemies attacked, these walls were destroyed and the cities were captured. After being held in captivity for years, the Israelites were allowed to return back to their homelands. In the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah, they were directed to rebuild the temple and walls of Jerusalem.
In much this same way, sometimes the walls of our life feel broken down. We feel our defenses have been crushed. We feel very vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy.
Our name this week for Jesus is REBUILDER OF THE WALLS OF OUR BROKEN LIVES. We are all broken from the weigh of sin and are in need of a Savior.
FOR THE KIDS:
Kids love to build blocks. They can learn very early the skills of starting with a good foundation. They need to understand that good foundations come from Bible based lives.
Our book this week is:
Nehemiah’s Greatest Day by Penny Frank
https://youtu.be/aBmoJj55Lmk?feature=shared
WEEK #13 - JESUS AS OUR PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTOR (BOOK OF ESTHER)
OLD TESTAMENT
“If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place but you and your relatives will die.”
(Esther 4:14)
(Thanks to Mordecai the plot to execute all Jews was stopped)
NEW TESTAMENT
“We know that everyone who has been born of God…..is protected and the evil one does not touch him.”
(1 John 5:18)
Have you ever considered the symbolism of the Book of Esther? Most are familiar with the story of how Esther saved the destruction of the Jews with the help of her Uncle Mordecai. Other characters in the story include King Ahasuerus who symbolizes God, Haman who represents the devil. Mordecai symbolizes Jesus Christ. There is a ton of symbolism:
-Mordecai adopts Esther as God adopts us into His family
-Haman’s failed crafty plan to destroy the Jews reminds us of how God turns bad schemes from the devil into good.
-Lastly Mordecai can be viewed as the provincial protector of the Jewish people
(These thoughts were taken from an article “Symbolism in the Book of Esther by Jordan Alease).
Our name for Jesus this week is our PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTOR. Just like Mordecai, He stands in the gap between us and Satan. We should feel safe resting in His arms. He takes evil schemes against us and turns them into good.
FOR THE KIDS
Children need to know that God never slumbers or sleeps. He is only a prayer away from them and He will always protect them from evil
OUR BOOK THIS WEEK IS:
Esther the Morning Star by Mordecai Gerstein
https://youtu.be/v4rC0c5K3Uk?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place but you and your relatives will die.”
(Esther 4:14)
(Thanks to Mordecai the plot to execute all Jews was stopped)
NEW TESTAMENT
“We know that everyone who has been born of God…..is protected and the evil one does not touch him.”
(1 John 5:18)
Have you ever considered the symbolism of the Book of Esther? Most are familiar with the story of how Esther saved the destruction of the Jews with the help of her Uncle Mordecai. Other characters in the story include King Ahasuerus who symbolizes God, Haman who represents the devil. Mordecai symbolizes Jesus Christ. There is a ton of symbolism:
-Mordecai adopts Esther as God adopts us into His family
-Haman’s failed crafty plan to destroy the Jews reminds us of how God turns bad schemes from the devil into good.
-Lastly Mordecai can be viewed as the provincial protector of the Jewish people
(These thoughts were taken from an article “Symbolism in the Book of Esther by Jordan Alease).
Our name for Jesus this week is our PROVIDENTIAL PROTECTOR. Just like Mordecai, He stands in the gap between us and Satan. We should feel safe resting in His arms. He takes evil schemes against us and turns them into good.
FOR THE KIDS
Children need to know that God never slumbers or sleeps. He is only a prayer away from them and He will always protect them from evil
OUR BOOK THIS WEEK IS:
Esther the Morning Star by Mordecai Gerstein
https://youtu.be/v4rC0c5K3Uk?feature=shared
WEEK #14 - JESUS AS OUR MEDIATOR (BOOK OF JOB)
OLD TESTAMENT
“If only there were someone to mediate between us, someone to bring us together.
(Job 9:33)
NEW TESTAMENT
“There is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
(1 Timothy 2:5)
In the Book of Job, we read about how Job recognized his need for a Savior, a Mediator. He yearned for someone to plead his case in heaven. He maintained his innocence but he also believed that God was too mighty to listen to mortals such as he. He also understood that suffering happens regardless of whether or not a person deserves it. These are certainly thoughts to ponder. Our name for Jesus this week is MEDIATOR. Jesus was both God and man so He was uniquely qualified to mediate to God the Father. He understood the struggles and pains of man.
FOR THE KIDS:
The Trinity is tough for even adults to wrap our minds around. So, let’s keep it on a child’s level of understanding: God the Father and Jesus the Son of God. Kids can pray to either God the Father or Jesus the Son of God…it doesn’t really matter. But, kids need to understand that Jesus understands every emotion they might be experiencing because He came to earth and lived as a man.
Our book this week is:
Who is Jesus? by Kathleen Long Bostrom
https://youtu.be/w7Te4az469k?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
“If only there were someone to mediate between us, someone to bring us together.
(Job 9:33)
NEW TESTAMENT
“There is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
(1 Timothy 2:5)
In the Book of Job, we read about how Job recognized his need for a Savior, a Mediator. He yearned for someone to plead his case in heaven. He maintained his innocence but he also believed that God was too mighty to listen to mortals such as he. He also understood that suffering happens regardless of whether or not a person deserves it. These are certainly thoughts to ponder. Our name for Jesus this week is MEDIATOR. Jesus was both God and man so He was uniquely qualified to mediate to God the Father. He understood the struggles and pains of man.
FOR THE KIDS:
The Trinity is tough for even adults to wrap our minds around. So, let’s keep it on a child’s level of understanding: God the Father and Jesus the Son of God. Kids can pray to either God the Father or Jesus the Son of God…it doesn’t really matter. But, kids need to understand that Jesus understands every emotion they might be experiencing because He came to earth and lived as a man.
Our book this week is:
Who is Jesus? by Kathleen Long Bostrom
https://youtu.be/w7Te4az469k?feature=shared
WEEK #15-JESUS AS OUR SHEPHERD (BOOK OF PSALMS)
OLD TESTAMENT
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
(Psalm 23:1)
NEW TESTAMENT
“I am the good shepherd, I know my sheep as my sheep know me just as the Father knows me and I know the Father and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
(John 10:14-15)
Everyone is familiar with the 23rd Psalm and the beautiful imagery of a shepherd taking care of his sheep. David was a shepherd boy before he ever imagined being one of the greatest kings of Israel. When he wrote these words he was expressing his total trust and hope in a God who would lead, protect and provide. Jesus Christ is the GOOD SHEPHERD. He leads us by always preparing the way of righteous living.
He protected us from the wages of sin by laying down His life. He provides for us by understanding our needs rather than our wants.
FOR THE KIDS
Unless kids grew up on a farm or have experiences through 4H perhaps they don’t understand the concept of a shepherd and his sheep as well as adults do. Explain to the children how sheep (which aren’t the smartest animals in the world) are in great need to someone to lead them and care for them. it’s such a beautiful thought to grasp how Jesus cares for us just like a good shepherd cares for his sheep.
Our book this week is:
The Lord is My Shepherd by Hans Wilhelm
https://youtu.be/lF-poVw9iYg?feature=shared
OLD TESTAMENT
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
(Psalm 23:1)
NEW TESTAMENT
“I am the good shepherd, I know my sheep as my sheep know me just as the Father knows me and I know the Father and I lay down my life for the sheep.”
(John 10:14-15)
Everyone is familiar with the 23rd Psalm and the beautiful imagery of a shepherd taking care of his sheep. David was a shepherd boy before he ever imagined being one of the greatest kings of Israel. When he wrote these words he was expressing his total trust and hope in a God who would lead, protect and provide. Jesus Christ is the GOOD SHEPHERD. He leads us by always preparing the way of righteous living.
He protected us from the wages of sin by laying down His life. He provides for us by understanding our needs rather than our wants.
FOR THE KIDS
Unless kids grew up on a farm or have experiences through 4H perhaps they don’t understand the concept of a shepherd and his sheep as well as adults do. Explain to the children how sheep (which aren’t the smartest animals in the world) are in great need to someone to lead them and care for them. it’s such a beautiful thought to grasp how Jesus cares for us just like a good shepherd cares for his sheep.
Our book this week is:
The Lord is My Shepherd by Hans Wilhelm
https://youtu.be/lF-poVw9iYg?feature=shared
CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO HEAR THE STORY BEHIND THE TINY SEEDS STORYTIME
IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO READ TO A CHILD AND PLANT A SEED OF GOD’S WORD
(Enjoy these pictures from 2021-2023. More pictures below.)
(Enjoy these pictures from 2021-2023. More pictures below.)
MEMORIES FROM OUR STORYTIMES IN THE GARDEN FROM
2009-2020
I BELIEVE IN CHILDREN
....There is faith in their eyes,
Love in their touch
And hope in their attitude.
....I thrill with them at life's joy's
Run with them through tall grasses
And bow with them in worship.
....They are the fragile dream of yesterday,
Life's radiant reality of today
And the vibrant vision of tomorrow.
(taken from www.handprint.org.)
....There is faith in their eyes,
Love in their touch
And hope in their attitude.
....I thrill with them at life's joy's
Run with them through tall grasses
And bow with them in worship.
....They are the fragile dream of yesterday,
Life's radiant reality of today
And the vibrant vision of tomorrow.
(taken from www.handprint.org.)