K E YQ U O T E S
• “Repentance is not necessary for us to be loved by God.”
• “We are loved before we know it, God pursues us every day and God rejoices when we realize it.”
S C R I P T U R E
• Luke 15:1-10 (click on scripture to read online)
P O I N T ST OR E V I S I T
The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin powerfully illustrate God's unwavering love and pursuit of God’s children. Despite criticism from religious leaders about associating with sinners, Jesus demonstrated that God's love doesn't wait for people to become worthy - He loves and pursues us exactly as we are. This unconditional acceptance reveals that God's love precedes repentance and that every person has inherent value in God’s eyes. Like a shepherd leaving 99 sheep to find one or a woman searching diligently for a lost coin, God pursues us relentlessly. This divine pursuit demonstrates our immense worth to God, regardless of society's judgment. We can live joy-filled lives when we accept God’s love, align our lives with God’s teachings, share God’s love with others, and stand up for God’s values in the world.
P R A Y E R
Loving God, open my heart and mind to understand the depth of Your love for me. Help me to see myself and others through Your eyes, recognizing the value You place on each person. Guide me and help me to apply these truths to my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
• What does it mean that God's grace is given before we even know to ask for it?
• How does knowing you are valued by God impact how you view yourself?
• In what ways can you show others they have value in God's eyes?
• Why do you think Jesus used everyday examples (lost sheep, coins) to illustrate spiritual truths?
• For children and families: What's the most valuable thing you've ever lost and then found? How did you feel when you finally found it? How does it feel to know that God loves you and celebrates you even more than that?
LI F EA P P L I C A T I O N
This week, identify someone in your life who might feel undervalued. Make a specific effort to show them God's love through your actions and words, demonstrating that they have value regardless of their circumstances.
E N D I N GP R A Y E R
Lord, thank You for pursuing me relentlessly and showing me my true value in Your eyes. Help me to extend that same grace and love to others, celebrating when the lost are found. Give me courage to reach out to those who need to know that they are valuable beyond measure. In Jesus' name, Amen.
KINDNESSCHALLENGEFORKIDS
How can you show kindness this week to someone who is not always kind to you?
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