encouraged

if you want to be encouraged, spend some time with the third through sixth graders at northwest bible church. these kiddos have a heart for others. i had the joy of teaching their council time tonight during awana. i focused on the parable of the good samaritan and got the kids engaged by asking them to think of someone they knew who was picked on, bullied, or didn't have many friends. i then put them in groups and had them list reasons why these individuals were victims of the bullying. they came up with some great reasons...all very true and happen on a daily basis. we reviewed the parable, and discussed how the peer they were thinking of was like the man in the story who had been robbed and beaten and passed by twice without being shown compassion. i challenged this group of kids to be the good samaritan in their school even if it means they'll become a victim themselves. Christ, told us to love our neighbor. everyone we come in contact with is our neighbor. we are to love as Christ loved. we talked about how actions speak louder than words. at the end, i asked if there were any questions. (this is where the real encouragement comes in). they were so full of questions and different situations and scenarios wanting to know how best to handle the situations they are faced with daily. i even had a couple come up and talk to me after dismissal. these kids have a heart for others and want to be a friend to the friendless. i even had one boy ask me what to do since he was friends with the bullies. my response, don't participate....i could tell he was thinking hard. i was also asked what if they're your enemy? love your enemies as yourself. i used the example of Christ on the cross. He said, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." these kids got it and wanted to be a friend.

how easy is it to get swept up in the poking fun, laughing, and passing by as adults. our excuses are endless but none of them are right. we are to have a heart like these kids and be that good samaritan.