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Sprinkle, Sparkle

Children's sermon
Object: 
Assortment of salt shakers (especially unique ones)
“Salt is good; (v. 50a)

Good morning boys and girls,

How are you this morning? Are you feeling sunny or cloudy? Stormy or balmy? Using weather talk how would you describe yourself. For me, I'm feeling _____________.

I have a question.

And I have some surprising good news. Are you ready? (children respond) The question is: have you ever eaten food without salt? Did you ever eat french fries without salt? Have you ever eaten potato chips without salt? Without salt food can be tasteless and unappetizing.

Of course, too much salt is not good. For some people too much salt is even unhealthy.

But generally a pinch or two of salt is just right. (sprinkle a bit on an imaginary plate of food)

The good news is this:

Jesus pictures salt as good. Salt and other spices like cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, parsley, ginger, chives, and dill makes food sparkle! Yum yum!

So one day Jesus stunned the multitudes who were listening to him preach the sermon on the mount by announcing “You are the salt of the earth.” (Matthew 5:13)

Jesus was saying, as God's beloved, you are destined to make life sparkle! You, God's forgiven and blessed, are to bring flavor and goodness to the earth. You are the salt of the earth!”

The good news continues: Children, because you are baptized you are the salt of the earth. As salt, you get to bring flavor and sparkle to others.

Do you know some kids who are sad and gloomy? Do you know of kids who have no church home or even friends? By being a gentle friend you can share the sparkle of life with them.

You are the sparkle that God wants to use. You are God's arms, legs, and heart.

Never forget, You are the salt of the earth!”

Prayer: Lord Jesus sprinkle me on others so that your divine love can sparkle. Amen.
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