The Series: Friending Jesus Face to Face. Week 1 January 2-7: On Earth. Week 2 January 9-14: In His Relationships

Welcome to "Friending Jesus on Earth" If I were to ask you, what is your favorite part of Jesus s life, what would you say? Is it His parabales, His teaching, His miracles, His Human side, His prophecies, His Tempations, etc.? For me, it was His teachings. We are not even wise enough, to come up with the words to speak like this. His words have always interest me. But here is what I find interesting, we all were drawn to something about Jesus life. Many of us believe because something about His life caused us to believe. But this is what makes Jesus so amazing. He loves us so much that He knows exactly what we need to believe. For some, they need a miracle, for others they need to know that He can relate to them, understand their pain, and be able to help them walk throught it. While some only need to hear Him speak, and therefore they believe because of His words alone. We all have different reasons for believing, but despite our reason for believing, one thing about His life has drawn all of us, His love for us, His death on the cross, and His ressurection from the dead. God walked on this earth, and He wants each one of us to know Him personally. We are so wrapped up in our lives, we forget that. For the next 15 weeks, we are going to take a look at Jesus life, and break it down bit by bit. We will look at His miracles, His parables, His tempations, His relationships, etc. Please join us as a church, as we learn more about Jesus s life on earth, and come to know Him better. The Series: Friending Jesus Face to Face Week 1 January 2-7: On Earth Week 2 January 9-14: In His Relationships Week 3 January 16-21: In His Temptations Week 4 January 23-28: In His Disciples Week 5 January 30-February 4: In His Teachings Week 6 February 6-11: In His Miracles Week 7 February 13-18: In His Parables

On Sunday after church review with your child what they learned. Pick a night this week for a family night. At dinner review you homefront as a family. Early in the week is best. This week s lesson. Read scriptures a couple of times this week with your child if possible. Interesting biblical facts to increase your child s knowledge about this portion of The Big God Story.

This section includes a section to read with questions and sometimes a quick activity to make the lessons point. We teach the memory verse through song and hand motions. The verse changes every 6-7 weeks. A quick prayer related to the week s lesson, to encourage your child. Can be done during reading time, on the way to school, or at bedtime.

2.5 12/18 to 1/1/17 Ponder Point JESUS CHOOSE US TO FOLLOW HIM The Big God Story Luke 5:1 11 Jesus chose 12 apostles and prepared them to go and tell othersabout Him. Today He calls each of us to follow Him as well.

Date: 12/26/16 1/1/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade WEEK 1: 12/26/16-1/1/17 HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: JESUS IS THE PROMISED SAVIOR Birth of Jesus Isaiah 9:1 2, 6 7; Luke 2 Jesus is born. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: JESUS IS KING Wise Men Matthew 2; Micah 5:2; Jeremiah 31:15; Hosea 11:1 The wise men visit Jesus. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. Though we don t know much about the Magi (wise men), it s clear that they were a group of men who put their trust in the signs and wonders of the one true God. It took the magi many months to make their journey to find Jesus. Scripture tells us the star the wise men followed moved as the men traveled. Each movement of the star brought them closer to their anticipated destination. When the wise men found Jesus, they gave Him gifts and worshipped Him.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY Bundle up your family and head outside to gaze at the stars. Simply look up at the night sky and take in the wonder of our God who created all of the stars in the universe. Ask your children to imagine following just one of these stars on a very long journey, just like the wise men did. Read Matthew 2:1 2, 9 11. Pray together as a family that God would help each of you worship Him in new ways during this Christmas season. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: Why did the wise men travel such a long way? How do you think the men felt after traveling so far? What are some ways we can recognize Jesus as King of our lives? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how Jesus Is King into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. 1 John 4:9 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may you know that Jesus is King over the world and over your life. May you praise Him and trust Him to guide you. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

2.6 1/1 to 1/8 Ponder Point JESUS CHOOSE US TO FOLLOW HIM The Big God Story Luke 5:1 11 Jesus chose 12 apostles and prepared them to go and tell others about Him. Today He calls each of us to follow Him as well.

WEEK 2: 1/2/17 1/8/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: JESUS IS KING Wise Men Matthew 2; Micah 5:2; Jeremiah 31:15; Hosea 11:1 The wise men visit Jesus. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME REMEMBER & CELEBRATE Festival of First Fruits: Celebrating God as Trustworthy DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. The Festival of First Fruits marked the beginning of the spring harvest. In the New Testament, the Festival of First Fruits was fulfilled by the resurrection of the Messiah. The Israelites celebrated seven annual feasts and festivals: Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Festival of First Fruits, Feast of Harvest, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles (or Booths). During the feasts, the Israelites ate, danced, sang, played instruments, prayed, and offered sacrifices to God.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY Sometime this week, set aside an evening to remember and celebrate as a family. Just as the Israelite celebrations revolved around a feast, create a feast for your family: eat ice cream, make milkshakes, get French fries, build a fire and roast marshmallows, etc. Then read Psalm 65. Spend some time remembering what God has done in the life of your family. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: What are some of the ways God has blessed our family? For what are you most thankful? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God is trustworthy into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. 1 John 4:9 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may our trustworthy God bring you peace, comfort, and joy this week! He loves you and can always be trusted with all of your needs. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

Week 1: On Earth Memory Verse: John 8:58 January 2 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: John 8:31:59 Going Deeper: According to verse 47, who belongs to God and who does not belong to God? Question for Journaling: In verse 58, Jesus makes a very bold statement against the Pharisees, He says before Abraham was born, I AM. In the Greek, the word I AM, is another way of saying, I have always existed, and I will always exist. Out of everything you know about Jesus, would you say you have enough evidence to prove His claim? Why or why not?

January 3 Memory Verse: John 8:58 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: John 17:1-26 Going Deeper: According to verse 3, how can any person come into eternal life? Question for Journaling: In verse 8, we see the reason why Jesus came into this world, was to give a message. The message was that He came to save you from your sins, because He loves you. Verse 8 says, the apostles believed His message. You know the Apostles saw Jesus face to face, and they saw more things in their lifetime, than we may ever experience in ours. What is it about Jesus s message that makes you believe without seeing Him face to face?

January 4 Memory Verse: John 8:58 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 8:23-27 Going Deeper: When the storm broke out over the waters, what was Jesus doing? Question for Journaling: After Jesus calmed the storm, the scripture says that the disciples were so amazed that they began to question, Who is this man? Wouldn t you ask the same question? I mean no human person has ever calmed a storm. We too come to a point in our lives when we start to question Jesus. For instance, maybe there is a person in our life who once was depressed, but now is full of joy. Or maybe someone is pulled away from addiction, and now is free from it. They both share the same testimony, Jesus. How does this story and the examples provided, encourage you to find out everything about this man, so you can be sure who He really is?

January 5 Memory Verse: John 8:58 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: John 10:1-21 Going Deeper: According to verse 10, what is Jesus purpose and what is the thief s purpose? Question for Journaling: Back in chapter 9 of John, Jesus healed a blind man. In chapter 10, verse 21, we see people make a reference to this healing. Per verse 21, some say, this man Has a demon. But others say, this man has no demon, for can a demon open the eyes of the blind? I love this ending, because it takes our focus off of Jesus to see a different perspective. Miracles!! They get our attention. They bring a different perspective to challenge what we believe. Have you encountered a miracle in your life? How has it impacted your life?

January 6 Memory Verse: John 8:58 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: John 18:28-40 Going Deeper: Per verse 33, what question did Pilate ask Jesus and what was Jesus answer, per verse 34? Question for Journaling: Per verse 37, Jesus tells Pilate the reason He was born and came into the world was to testify to the truth. But Jesus makes a very clear statement about truth, all who love the truth recognize what I say is true. In other words, what Jesus is saying, is all those who seek the truth, hear the truth, will recognize what is true. Sadly, many people will reject the truth, without hearing the truth. Is there something about Jesus, that you are unsure about, and you need to investigate a little further?

January 7 Memory Verse: John 8:58 Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM! Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 1:18-25 Going gives Deeper: Per verse 19, why did Joseph want to break the engagement with Mary? How does this encourage you to live a life of righteousness too? Question for Journaling: No matter how hard we try, we will never fully understand how God, stepped away from Heaven and was born on earth, because of His great love for us. In verse 23, we see this reality. The word Immanuel, means God is with us. God left his throne to be with us, so that He could save us from our sins. Whoever is reading this right now, listen to me. God was never against you; He has always been for you, that is why He came. I teach this to my sons often. God will never leave you or forsake you. He is with you always. How does knowing that God is with you, help you to trust Him?

2.7 1/8 to 1/15 Ponder Point JESUS IS GOD The Big God Story Matthew 8:23 27; Mark 4:35 41 Jesus calms the storm with just three words: Quiet! Be still! Jesus can control nature He can save the world.

WEEK 3: 1/9/17 1/15/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK REMEMBER & CELEBRATE Festival of First Fruits: Celebrating God as Trustworthy WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: GOD IS STRENGTH Entering the Promised Land Joshua 1; 3 4 God leads the Israelites into the Promised Land and gives them strength. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. Joshua and Caleb were the only two spies with the faith to enter the Promised Land God had given to them. When Moses was dying, he passed the mantle of leadership to Joshua. Joshua was to lead the Israelites into Canaan, where the people would settle. God gave the Israelites victory in battle after battle and allowed them to take the land piece by piece.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY Set up camp indoors by crawling under a table tent or gathering on a blanket spread on the floor. Alternatively, gather your family outside if weather permits. Let them know you re going to read a part of The Big God Story in which God does some amazing things. Read Joshua 3:1 17. Invite your family to whisper, Amazing every time they notice something in the passage that amazes them. When you hear a whispered Amazing, pause and ask, What amazing thing did God do? When you re finished reading, share with your family any aha moments you experienced. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: Why do you think God gave the Israelites a Promised Land? How did God s miracle at the Jordan River strengthen the Israelites faith? How is God the source of your courage and strength? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Is Strength into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD-- that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may you know that God alone is the source of your courage and strength. May you seek Him every day of your life.

Week 2: In His Relationships Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 January 9 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 9:9-13 Going Deeper: In verse 9, what invitation did Jesus give Matthew and what was Matthew s response or reaction? Question for Journaling: In verse 13, Jesus tells us that he does not want our sacrifices; he wants us to show mercy towards one another. Have you ever offered God a sacrifice, whether it was your money, your time, a prayer, while you were judging another person? How did this impact your relationship with God?

January 10 Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: Luke 5:1-11 Going Deeper: Per verse 1, why were the people pressing around Jesus? Question for Journaling: Every time I read this story about how Jesus filled the nets of Peter, James, and John, with fish too heavy for one person to carry, it blows me away with Peter s response. He immediately calls Him Lord, and tells Him to go away from him, because he is a sinful man, and it is after this, that Jesus, who does not condemn him, offers Him a job. In verse 10, Jesus says, do not be afraid, for now on you will be fishing for people. God wants a relationship with you too and oh by the way, He has a job and plan for your life too, but it cannot begin until you confess that you re a sinful person, then God can remove the separation of sin between you and Him. Have you started a relationship with Jesus? If so, how is your relationship growing, and if not, what may be holding you back?

January 11 Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: Luke 19:1-10 Going Deeper: Per verse 8, what was Zacchaeus s sin? Question for Journaling: It blows me away how Jesus knows everything about us. He knows what we love, what we hate, and He knows exactly what sins we hide behind, and yet He wants to be a part of our lives, despite who we are. How does this story encourage you to come to Jesus, with your stains, garbage, mud, dirt and all, knowing He loves you and can help you?

Janaury 12 Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: Luke 10:38-42 Going Deeper: What was Mary doing and what was Martha doing? Question for Journaling: This story is very encouraging. It is so easy to relate to both Mary and Martha because we do the same things. God I want to spent time listening to your teaching and hang out with you, but I got stuff I have to get done first, or God forget my chores or plans, I want to spend time with your before I get those things done. Which person is more relatable to you and why?

Janauary 13 Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: John 4:1-38 Going Deeper: Per verse 15-17, what did the woman request from Jesus and what was his response? Question for Journaling: You know every relationship that Jesus pursues always begins with the heart of the problem, sin. He goes right to our sin problem, just like He did with the Samaritan Women. He does this so that we can come to know the truth about whom we are and whom He is. If we let Him, He can help us remove sin from our lives, so that we can be free to share in relationship with Him. Given this, is there a sin that is keeping you from Him and are you allowing Him to help you remove it?

January 14 Memory Verse: Luke 14:27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Bible Reading for the Day: John 5:1-15 Going Deeper: Per verse 15, when the man discovers who it is that healed Him, what does the man go and do? Would you do the same? Question for Journaling: Per verse 6, Jesus already knew the condition of the man, and He knew how long he had been ill for. You see, Jesus knows everything about you. He knows your condition, your problems, your concerns, etc., better than any other person on this planet, and He wants so desperately to be a part of your life because He loves you. How does knowing this, encourage you to come to Him when He can sympathize with you, understand you, relate to you, etc.,?

2.8 1/15 to 1/22 Ponder Point JESUS IS GOD The Big God Story Matthew 8:23 27; Mark 4:35 41 Jesus calms the storm with just three words: Quiet! Be still! Jesus can control nature He can save the world.

WEEK 4: 1/16/17 1/22/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: GOD IS STRENGTH Entering the Promised Land Joshua 1; 3 4 God leads the Israelites into the Promised Land and gives them strength. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: GOD IS POWERFUL Taking the Promised Land Joshua 6 10 The Israelites fight the battles of Jericho and Ai and take the Promised Land. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. God told the people not to take any of the gold, silver, or other property they found in Jericho, but instead to give it to God by putting it in the treasury. A man named Achan did not heed God s warnings and, in his greed, took some of the gold and silver from Jericho. God was angered because of Achan s disobedience. Achan s sin stained the community. When the soldiers made an attempt to invade Ai, they were chased out, and several were killed in battle. This battle showed the Israelites, once again, that they were helpless without God s power. After they decided to obey and trust God, God would give them victory over Ai.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY For this week s portion of The Big God Story, read through the biblical account of Joshua, the Israelites, and Ai in Joshua 8:3 22 (Note: Some Scripture can be a bit graphic so you may want to read through these chapters first so you know which parts will be appropriate for your family.) After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: What do you think it might have been like to be in the Israelite army? How did God use His power to help the Israelites? In your own life, how have you seen God s power? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Is Powerful into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD-- that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may you know that God is powerful, and may you see His power in your life. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

Week 3: In His Temptations January 16 Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 4:1-4 Going Deeper: Per verse 3, before Satan begins tempting Jesus, he starts out by acknowledging one specific truth, what truth did Satan immediately confess to? Question for Journaling: Per verse 2, we see that Jesus has fasted for forty days and is extremely hungry. Given this Satan, goes right after Him and tempts Him to make food out of rocks. Jesus replies with, Man does not live on bread alone but every word that comes out of the mouth of God. This is an amazing truth. How would you say your life has been impacted with Gods word in comparison to without Gods word?

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 January 17 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 4:5-7, Psalms 91:1-16 Going Deeper: What is the theme of Psalms 91, and how was Satan misinterpreting Psalms 91, 11-12? Question for Journaling: After Satan tempts Jesus to jump off the temple, Jesus responds to Satan, You must not test the Lord your God. Often times we will test God, because of one reason, we doubt, and we disbelieve. But God wants us to trust Him with our lives in everything. Given this, what are some things you can do to build your trust in God?

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 January 18 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 4:8-11 Going Deeper: One thing Satan often likes to do is bring us to high places, where we can rise up and get the glory. Let us be honest, having our own kingdom would be pretty nice. We would be able to do things the way we wanted, live the way we wanted, etc. But this is Satan s plan, not God s. Unfortunately, Satan s way leads to sin and death, Gods way leads to life. Given this, what are some things you can do, to keep yourself humble? Question for Journaling: Jesus s last response to Satan says it all, You must Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only. Listen, worshiping anything but God is a sin. Wow!! We are all guilty of this. We have all worshiped something other than God in our lives, whether it was our health, our job, our possessions, etc. However, He is the only one we are to worship, why? Because He deserves it; He loves us perfectly, He is Holy, and He is good. Based on this, could you say that you love Jesus more than anything in your life, why or why not?

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 January 19 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: Luke 22:39-46 Going Deeper: Per verse 40, what are we to do so that we may not give in to temptation? Question for Journaling: We cannot imagine what Jesus was going through in that garden. But here is the thing, at any minute, at any second, He could have chosen to not go through with it, and if He did, you and I would be going to hell for our sins. Instead He prays, the scriptures says, fervently, in other words with intensity, with enthusiasm, why, because He loves you and He loves me. He knew what would happen to you and to me, if He did not go to the cross. How does Jesus example of not giving up in temptation, encourage you to fight when temptation comes your way?

Janaury 20 Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: 1 Corinthians 10:1-33 Going Deeper: What are some of the lessons we can learn from those that disobeyed God from within the Old Testament? Question for Journaling: What is the warning that is presented in verse 12? How does this encourage you to depend on Jesus and not yourself?

January 21 Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Bible Reading for the Day: James 1:2-18 Going gives Deeper: What is the difference between a trial and a test or temptation? Question for Journaling: One thing that James makes clear is that temptations come from within our own hearts. Have you ever noticed that when your mind focuses on something you want that is when temptation comes luring around? How might you protect your mind and heart from allowing temptations to enter?

2.9 1/22 to 1/29 Ponder Point JESUS CARES The Big God Story Matthew 14:13 21; Mark 6:30 44; Luke 9:10 17; John 6:1 15 Jesus cared so much for the crowd that was following Him that He taught the people, healed them, and fed them. Jesus provides abundantly for us because He cares for us.

WEEK 5: 1/23/17 1/29/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: GOD IS POWERFUL Taking the Promised Land Joshua 6 10 The Israelites fight the battles of Jericho and Ai and take the Promised Land. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: GOD IS VICTORIOUS David and Goliath 1 Samuel 16 17 God gives a David victory over Goliath. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. God had set up a system of leadership in which He led His people through the priests, prophets and judges who spoke on His behalf. The Israelites didn t want the system God had set up. They wanted the system man had created, so they asked for a king. The first king was Saul, but God would eventually reject him and put David in Saul s place. God s Spirit was with David and gave him victory as he fought Goliath.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY Gather your family around your dinner table, on your couch, or in a circle on the floor. Tell your children you re going to read to them about the life of David. Ask them to close their eyes and put themselves in David s shoes as you read. Then read 1 Samuel 17:1 32, 45 50. Ask your kids how they think David felt when he first saw Goliath. Remind your children that God is victorious. When we surrender our lives to God, God s glory will be seen through our victories. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: Why do you think God chose David to be king? How was God victorious in David s life? How has God had victory in your life? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Is Victorious into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD-- that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may you trust in nothing but God to give you victory in your life. May He be victorious in your heart and give you peace and joy. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

Week 4: In His Disciples Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 January 23 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Luke 14:25-35 Going Deeper: Per verse 28-29, what should any person do before making a decision to follow Jesus? Question for Journaling: The word Disciple in the Greek means, student or learner, however, it also entails someone who follows the teaching of the master or Rabbi. Jesus tells us that no one can be His disciple unless they are willing to carry their cross and come after Him. In other words, they must be willing to die to their sins, and follow His ways, and live out His righteous living. We all sin, and we all make mistakes, but we should learn from our sins, so that we do not repeat the same pattern. If we are serious about following Him, we should repent, not just accept. Given this, how open are you to learn from your sins, so that you can stop doing them?

Janaury 24 Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 7:21-23 Going Deeper: On judgment day who will be allowed to enter the kingdom of God? Question for Journaling: Verse 23 sums up everything Jesus wants with each one of us, which is a relationship. Just like any relationship, it takes time to invest in it, so that the relationship may grow. Given this, how would you say your relationship with Jesus is going? In other words, how often would you say you spend time just being with Him and sharing your life with Him?

January 25 Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 9:35-38 Going Deeper: Per verse 36, who did Jesus have compassion on and how can you identify with the very people He pursued? Question for Journaling: One of the biggest joys about being a disciple of Jesus Christ is the gift to serve Him. Often times we look at serving, as work, and a have to instead of a get to situation. God gave each one of us a gift to serve Him, so that we can help more people know Him. In verse 37, Jesus says, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. I know this may sound crazy, but I believe it to be true. Have you ever thought that by serving, you are impacting the Kingdom of God? If you are not serving, why?

Janaury 26 Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 12:46-50 Going Deeper: Per verse 47, who wanted to speak with Jesus? Question for Journaling: It is amazing how we get to become a part of Gods family when we first believe, and are cleansed from all of our sins through His blood and death on the cross. Sadly, not every person is a part of Gods family. Per verse 50, Jesus makes it clear that those who hear and do the will of God are his family. Given this, sometimes we have to make decisions that may hurt our physical family, because they do not agree with our way of living. Has there been a time when you had to choose following Gods ways over your own family?

January 27 Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 12:1-8 Going Deeper: Per verse 2, what were the Pharisees protesting against the disciples about? Question for Journaling: Jesus response to the Pharisees can be seen in verse 7, when He says, But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices. Being a disciple has everything to do with our love for one another. One way we can show our love, is by showing mercy. Mercy is a way of showing forgiveness or kindness, even when the other person does not deserve it. What are some ways to show mercy?

January 28 Memory Verse: Luke 14:33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 4:18-22 Going Deeper: What occupation did Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew do for a living? Question for Journaling: Jesus offers Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew an invitation of a lifetime, He says, Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people! When we become a disciple, we are now given the responsibility to share the gospel message with other individuals. A disciple will do whatever it takes to help a person come to know Jesus, so that they too can be free from their sins, and enjoy fellowship with God. There should be no limitation to how you love others, because there is no limitation to how Jesus loves you. Given this, is there someone you are currently fishing for?

2.10 1/29 to 2/5 Ponder Point JESUS CARES The Big God Story Matthew 14:13 21; Mark 6:30 44; Luke 9:10 17; John 6:1 15 Jesus cared so much for the crowd that was following Him that He taught the people, healed them, and fed them. Jesus provides abundantly for us because He cares for us.

WEEK 6: 1/30/17 2/5/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: GOD IS VICTORIOUS David and Goliath 1 Samuel 16 17 God gives a David victory over Goliath. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: GOD IS SOVEREIGN King David 2 Samuel 2; 5 7 God calls David to lead His people as a shepherd king. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. David was so overcome with love and respect for the God who had given him and his people rest from their enemies that he wanted to give God a gift of gratitude: a house for Him to dwell in. God approved of David s intentions but did not allow David to build a house for Him. God promised something much greater than David could have imagined and said that Jesus Christ, the Savior of all mankind, would come through David s family line. This promise is called the Davidic covenant.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY With your kids, build a tent out of sheets and chairs. Explain to your children that, in David s time, God met with His people inside a tent (in this case, where the ark of the covenant was stored). Crawl inside your tent and read the biblical account of the Davidic covenant in 2 Samuel 7:1 16. Share with your children that what they just heard is part of The Big God Story, and that they will learn more about this at church this week. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: Why didn t God want David to build Him a house? What did God promise David? How does it make you feel to know that God keeps His promises? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Is Sovereign into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD-- that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), may you know God as your all-powerful King the One who is seated in the heavenly realms, far above all earthly rulers. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 Week 5: In His Teachings January 30 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Mark 1:21-28 Going Deeper: Per verse 22, what was the difference between the teachings of Jesus and the teachers of the religious law? Question for Journaling: How you view Jesus s teaching will determine how you live your life? Given this, would you say you depend or not depend on Jesus s teaching to live your life? Why or why not?

January 31 Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 5:1-12 Going Deeper: Which one of the blessings speaks to you the most and why? Question for Journaling: The blessing that speaks to me the most is verse 8, when Jesus says, God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. I like this verse because I want to see God. This is not a future blessing, this is a blessing that comes, when I choose to believe in Jesus, repent from my sins and follow Him. If I keep my eyes fixed on Jesus so that I can live according to His will and His plan for my life, I need to guard my heart from anything impure. How might you guard your heart, so that eyes will not be taken off of Him?

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 February 1 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 5:13-16 Going Deeper: What are somethings you can do to shine your light whether in your home, your work, etc.? Question for Journaling: Jesus is using salt as an analogy about a person who lives a Holy life. When we choose to follow His ways, we season the earth, with Holiness, and the world can see it. Hopefully a person can experience and taste what holiness is!! However, if we chose not to show our righteous living, people trample over it, without even realizing it s there. How does this encourage you to live like Jesus so that others can see the holy life of God?

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 February 2 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 5:17-20 Going Deeper: According to verse 19, who will be called least into the Kingdom of Heaven, and who will be called great into the Kingdom of Heaven? Question for Journaling: The law of God was never to show us how righteous we are, but how sinful we are. Jesus came to earth, to fulfill the law of God, by living it perfectly, without sinning, so that He could save me and you from the condemnation of the law, that proves us guilty in the presence of God. However, the law is never to be ignored. Gods law is Holy and perfect, and should be honored and lived by as best we can. How does knowing what he did for you, encourage you to the live by His law?

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 February 3 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 5:21-26 Going Deeper: If you know someone who has something against you, what action are you to take? Question for Journaling: Hatred and anger are very deadly. Jesus goes on to tell us that we will be accountable to Father God for any anger or hate we do not let go of. Please, take a minute and do a heart check, is there anything that God wants you to deal with now, that you have not let go of?

Memory Verse: Matthew 7:26 Febraury 4 But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 5:43-48 Going Deeper: How can we show love to God, for our enemies? Question for Journaling: This week we covered some of Jesus s teaching through what is called, the teachings from the Mount. In this very last passage of scripture, he says is verse 48, But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. The truth is no one can be. What Jesus is saying is that if we want to live by self-righteousness and want to go to heaven, you must do all of this perfectly. The good news, Jesus died on the cross for me and you because we are not good enough, but He is. How does knowing there is nothing you can do to get into heaven by yourself, encourage you to put your trust in Jesus?

2.11 2/5 to 2/12 Ponder Point JESUS IS POWERFUL The Big God Story John 9:1 12 Jesus displayed God s power by healing a man who had been born blind.

WEEK 7: 2/6/17 2/12/17 Kindergarten thru 5 th Grade HomeFront Weekly is designed for you to use during the week with your son or daughter. You ll find out what they learned today at church, and can help them prepare for next week by exploring the theme (or Ponder Point) and spending time together in God s Word. HomeFront Magazine: A Spiritual Parenting Resource This monthly magazine gives your family ideas for creating fun, spiritually forming times in your home setting aside sacred space in the midst of your active, everyday lives. Available FREE on the Promiseland Bulletin Board. WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK PONDER POINT: GOD IS SOVEREIGN King David 2 Samuel 2; 5 7 God calls David to lead His people as a shepherd king. WHERE WE RE HEADED NEXT TIME PONDER POINT: GOD BLESSES Solomon, Part 1 1 Kings 1 6 God offers to give Solomon anything he wants, and Solomon asks for wisdom. God blesses Solomon with wisdom and more. DID YOU KNOW? Share these facts to get the conversation started. Solomon desired to lead the Israelites with good judgment, so he asked God for wisdom. Many people have been enlightened not only by Solomon s writings in the book of Proverbs, but also the legends of his decision-making skills, such as the wise ruling in 1 Kings 3:16 28 concerning a child. Solomon s life cautions those who desire and receive wisdom from God to continually thank Him for the gift they ve received.

CONNECT AS A FAMILY Gather some coins and an empty jar. Read 1 Kings 2:1 4; 3:5 14. Explain to your children that God also blesses us in many ways. Encourage each person to name a blessing, and for each blessing, to take a coin and put it in the jar. Continue naming blessings as long as you d like. When you finish, explain that we can respond to all of our blessings by worshipping and thanking God. Have your kids take the coins to church this week and give them to God as a way of worshipping Him. After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together: How did God bless Solomon? How does God bless us? How can we bless others? These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Blesses into your everyday life as a family. REMEMBER VERSE Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD-- that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 BLESSING Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide. A blessing to pray over your child: (Child s name), May God s goodness and blessings overflow in your life. May you use the blessings He s given you to bless others this week. For more information about blessing your child, go to truministry.com to the Parenting tab. And for more creative ideas on spiritually leading your family, visit HomeFrontMag.com.

Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 Week 6: In His Miracles February 6 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: Matthew 13:53-58 Going Deeper: Per verse 55-57, why did the people of Nazareth refuse to believe in Him? Question for Journaling: Verse 58, is one of the saddest stories we hear about Jesus, And so He did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. I cannot imagine. Is there something in your life, you want God to help you with, but you battle with disbelief, faith, or trust?

February 7 Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: John 5:31-47 Going Deeper: Per verse 36, what do the miracles of Jesus prove? Question for Journaling: In verse 39, Jesus tells us that many people search the scriptures to find salvation without needing Him, because they feel their self-righteousness meets the quota. Have you ever, tried to justify your sinful actions by finding a verse that meets the billet, without looking at the whole picture?

Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 February 8 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: John 7:1-9 Going Deeper: Per verse 7, why does the world hate Jesus? Question for Journaling: Often times we want Jesus to perform a miracle now. This is sad because we spend more time looking for a miracle then loving and obeying Jesus. Miracles are not based on our plans on our time, but Jesus holds the perfect time for everything. How can you learn to obey Jesus while being patient for His timing?

Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 February 9 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: Galatians 3:1-14 Going Deeper: Per verse 7, who are the real children of the Abraham? Question for Journaling: In verse 5, the Apostle Paul says God can perform miracles among us when we believe the message about Jesus. In other words, when I believe that Jesus died on the cross and that He saved me from my sins, and I repented and followed Him, He is now able to perform miracles in me through the power of the Holy Spirit. This is an amazing truth. He can make you a better husband or wife, a better employee, a better servant, and a better parent. He can do things He could not do before. How does knowing that by believing, God can do a miracle in your life?

February 10 Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: Hebrews 2:1-4 Going Deeper: How can a person drift away from the message of God? Question for Journaling: All signs, wonders, and miracles Jesus performed, were to validate the message of Jesus Christ is true. The miracles were meant to show us that Jesus is the Messiah. Do you remember the first time you saw a miracle, what was the first thing you thought about when you saw this miracle?

Memory Verse: Matthew 13:58 February 11 And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Bible Reading for the Day: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 Going Deeper: Per verse 10, which people is Satan going to deceive? Question for Journaling: We often forget that Satan can also perform miracles as God allows. However, he uses miracles for another agenda, for a different purpose. How can you ensure whether the miracle is from God or from Satan?

2.12 2/12 to 2/19 Ponder Point JESUS IS POWERFUL The Big God Story John 9:1 12 Jesus displayed God s power by healing a man who had been born blind.