“Are these all the sons you have?” –Samuel to Jesse, in 1 Samuel 16:11 Despite the instruction that Samuel has from God to disregard the outward appearance of the sons of Jesse, he easily defaults into the cultural expectations and prejudices of his day. Eliab was the first son to pass by Samuel and God …
Tag Archive: Lent
Mar 22
Lent, week 5: Watch for morning [with bulletin insert download]
My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning! –Psalm 130:6 “This, too, shall pass.” Whatever the crisis is at the moment, we can be assured that God is with us and there is hope that, however difficult the situation… “this, too, shall pass.” This is even true in the …
Mar 15
Lent, week 4: The Valley [with bulletin insert download]
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. –Psalm 23:4 (RSV) Too many individuals have known the reality of being in the “valley of the shadow of death.” Survivors of trauma—especially that experienced in childhood—can …
Mar 08
Lent, week 3: Anticipation VS Anxiety [with bulletin insert download]
“It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; And while they are still speaking, I will hear.” –Isaiah 65:24 Anticipation can easily turn into anxiety. Consider these words from Meriwether Lewis, written in his journal on May 26, 1805, as the “Corps of Discovery” expedition first glimpsed the mighty Rocky Mountains …
Feb 28
Lent, week 2: Obedience [with bulletin insert download]
Although he was a son, [Jesus] learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him. —Hebrews 5:8-9 (ESV) Obedience is a tough word for anyone affected by trauma. Abusive relationships often demand obedience. Great physical, psychological, and relational harm has been done …
Feb 22
Lent Week 1: Stumbling (with bulletin insert download)
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea!” (Matthew 18:6) In the midst of a discussion about privilege and position in the coming Kingdom of …
Feb 15
Coming soon… Ash Wednesday [bulletin insert download]
“Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.” (Joel 2:13) Ash Wednesday provides us with an opportunity to examine where we are spiritually and relationally, where we have placed our priorities, and what adjustments we might need …
Feb 07
FREE Materials for Lent (Year A)
It is always our hope at Intermountain that we can provide our faith-based supporters–specifically the churches of our supporting denominations–with insights we have gained from our work with the children and families of Intermountain. We also want to help support your ministries in any way we can, providing materials that support your preparation for worship …
Feb 12
“We Faithfully Follow” – a free Christian Education resource for Lent and Easter
Lent is the traditional time of preparation for Easter, usually evoking images of sacrifice and a special focus on the great lengths to which God went in showing love for his children by sending Jesus to die for their sins and be raised on Easter morning. This curriculum was written by Pastor Chris Haughee and …
Jan 27
FREE Resources for Lent & Easter (Lectionary Year B)
In preparation for Lent, I have written seven free lessons for your use! My hope is that you will find this resource helpful for you as you interpret the “Change for Children” campaign to the young people of your church. While written primarily for a Children’s Sermon format, these object lessons could be used in a Sunday …
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