Persistence

READ: Jesus told many stories which we call parables. One day Jesus told the story of a poor woman whose husband had died. The woman was badly treated by an unkind judge who would not listen to her and did not follow God’s ways. The woman wouldn’t quit! She kept coming back to the judge, day after day, pleading her cause. Because she would not give up, we call her persistent or even tenacious! Eventually the judge is so frustrated and bothered by the woman, he gives in and makes the right decision. He doesn’t change his mind because he has become kind or had a change of heart, but because the woman would not give up. (Luke 18:1-8)
After he told this story, Jesus said to his disciples, “If an uncaring judge can finally make the right decision for justice, rest assured that God who wants the best for you and for the world will hear the cries of those who are mistreated and long for justice. Don’t lose heart. Trust that our loving God will act with compassion.”
WONDER: 
I wonder how the woman felt when the judge did not listen to her?
I wonder if the woman came alone to the judge? 
I wonder how the woman felt when the judge changed his mind and helped her?
I wonder how the judge acted the next time someone came and asked for help?
I wonder how you feel when someone listens to you?
PRAY: Loving God, thank you for always listening to us. Help us to be kind and caring when others need our help. Amen.
EXTEND

• Jesus told his friends not to lose heart. Last month we celebrated the Season of Creation, learning about how our planet is threatened and ways we can make a difference. Sometimes the problems of caring for the earth seem too big for us. Listen to Jack Johnson sing The 3 Rs song. Sing along if you know it.  As a family talk about what you are doing to care for the earth. Using your favorite art supplies create a poster to explain The 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle).
• ​Read Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Caldecott Medal winner Mo Willems. In the story a young child Trixie goes with her father to the laundromat. Trixie is too young to speak. Along for the trip is Knuffle Bunny, Trixie’s beloved stuffed animal. After starting a load of laundry in the washer, Trixie and her father head home. Suddenly Trixie realizes Knuffle Bunny is missing! How can she tell her dad what’s wrong? She’s determined to try, even though she can’t speak. How is Trixie like the persistent widow in Jesus’s story?