Church newsletter pastoral column for St. Peter Lutheran Church, Greene, Iowa, for August, 2020.
God’s Big Backyard
“The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.
The world and all its people belong to the Lord.”
– Psalm 24:1
Like so much else this year, the 2020 version of our Vacation Bible School program has looked different than normal. Instead of gathering in the church building, we put together bags of craft supplies for families and recorded videos so VBS could take place in homes and yards. I’ve missed the energy of being in a room with all the kids singing at the top of their lungs, but we’ve been able to do some fun new things this year, such as creative song videos, and Christin put together an at-home curriculum to reminds us that the whole world belongs to God.
For those of you who didn’t get to do VBS, I want to invite you to open up your Bible and see what God might be saying to you through these stories. These stories are for adults as well as kids! These may be familiar stories to you, but perhaps you’ll get something a little different out from them now than you did in Sunday School or VBS! So, here are five ways for you to enjoy God’s big backyard.
Climb a Tree: The Story of Zacchaeus – Luke 19:1-10
When Zacchaeus encounters Jesus, his life changes forever. Now that he knows Jesus, he can no longer live the way he used to. He repents, promising to give half of his possessions to the poor.
How has knowing Jesus changed your life? And what changes might Jesus be calling you to make?
Catch Some Fish: Jesus Calls Disciples – Matthew 4:18-22
Disciples Peter, James, and John didn’t start as great heroes of faith, but as ordinary fishermen. Jesus’ call was a surprise to them, as were his instructions to “fish for people.” Jesus is calling us also to drop our nets and follow, and to join in fishing for people.
Who can you pray for and tell about Jesus?
Have a Picnic: Jesus Feeds 5,000 – John 6:1-14
Each of the four Gospels records Jesus feeding a crowd of over 5,000 people with 5 loaves and 2 fish, but only John mentions the little boy who contributed the food. One boy’s lunch is insignificant, but in Jesus’ hands, it’s more than enough for a miracle.
What gifts or talents can you offer for Jesus to use?
Go for a Walk: Peter Walks on Water – Matthew 14:22-33
In this great miracle story, notice when Peter begins to sink; it’s when he sees the strong wind and becomes frightened. When he takes his eyes off Jesus, he gets in trouble – and immediately, Jesus reaches out to him.
What fears or worries are keeping you from trusting God right now?
Help Your Neighbor: The Parable of the Good Samaritan – Luke 10:25-37
Love your neighbor as yourself – but who is my neighbor? As an historical enemy of the Jews, the Samaritan is the least-likely person in this story to provide aid. Yet he is the one who helps, and he is the one we are called to emulate.
What obstacles have prevented you from loving your neighbors?
In the midst of all the chaos and uncertainty in the world right now, I pray that you find time to open God’s Word and read of God’s faithfulness. Remember this world belongs to God – and so do you!
In Christ,
-Pastor Daniel Flucke