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Illustration
Object:
Often we do not realize the influence we have on other people. Day in and out we are simply doing what we always do unaware that others might be watching us.
At the close of worship people were given the opportunity to stand and name someone in the congregation who impacted their lives in a positive way.
A man in his mid thirties stood to acknowledge a former youth fellowship leader who impacted his life when he was a teenager. He briefly told of struggling to be accepted and found the youth leader making him feel a part of the group. He then added that that is why he is involved in the youth ministry of the church today.
Next was a woman who spoke of an older woman who came to visit her when she was experiencing personal problems. What she particularly appreciated was that the woman did not judge her but instead showed love and concern. The woman who stood said that she just started a small group within the church to help young, single mothers who need support.
Others in the congregation told of people who influenced their lives. Perhaps what was unexpected was the number of people who told of that special individual and who now were engaged in similar ministries within the church.
Today's lesson is from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Jesus reminds us that what we might consider a negative aspect might actually turn out to our benefit. He also warned those who thought they had it all -- the tables would turn on them as well. One of Jesus' primary teachings is to love one another. "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you," Jesus teaches, "bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you."
Tim S.
At the close of worship people were given the opportunity to stand and name someone in the congregation who impacted their lives in a positive way.
A man in his mid thirties stood to acknowledge a former youth fellowship leader who impacted his life when he was a teenager. He briefly told of struggling to be accepted and found the youth leader making him feel a part of the group. He then added that that is why he is involved in the youth ministry of the church today.
Next was a woman who spoke of an older woman who came to visit her when she was experiencing personal problems. What she particularly appreciated was that the woman did not judge her but instead showed love and concern. The woman who stood said that she just started a small group within the church to help young, single mothers who need support.
Others in the congregation told of people who influenced their lives. Perhaps what was unexpected was the number of people who told of that special individual and who now were engaged in similar ministries within the church.
Today's lesson is from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Jesus reminds us that what we might consider a negative aspect might actually turn out to our benefit. He also warned those who thought they had it all -- the tables would turn on them as well. One of Jesus' primary teachings is to love one another. "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you," Jesus teaches, "bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you."
Tim S.
