Children’s Sermon

Matthew 17:1-9

A Quiet Place

By Lois Parker Edstrom

Use magazine pictures of serene places such as the seashore, mountains, a hammock, etc. as a visual aid.

Today let’s talk about quiet places – places you can go when you want to relax and just be. Many people like to walk along the shore and others enjoy hiking in the mountains. Some say they feel closer to God in those places.

At times it feels peaceful to lie in the sun and look at clouds, sit by the fireside and listen to the crackle of logs burning, or swing gently in a hammock under a canopy of leaves.

Many kids like to tuck into a small, sheltered place in a house or garden. When I was a little girl I liked to climb up into a big maple tree where I found a cozy place to sit and read.

We may also feel peaceful and comfortable as we settle into our beds for the night. Where is your favorite quiet place?

Quiet places are important because there we are given a chance to clear our minds. When that happens we become still and calm. We are better able to hear and feel God’s Spirit.

The Bible tells us that Jesus took Peter, James, and John and “brought them up into a high mountain by themselves” (17:1).

The story goes on, “He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light” (17:2).

While Jesus was on the mountain, “a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him'” (17:5).

This is an example of how Jesus felt the need to go to a quiet place. While he was there he was changed; God’s Spirit spoke to him.

Today and every day we all have the opportunity to find a quiet place, listen for God’s Spirit and be filled with God’s love.

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible

Copyright 2008, Richard Niell Donovan