Children’s Sermon

Luke 23:33-43

A Risky Plan

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Luke 23:33-43
A Risky Plan

By Lois Parker Edstrom

Objects suggested: Mountain climbing gear, if available.

Photos of Mount Everest are available at: http://www.mnteverest.net/photo.htm
A view from the top of Mount Everest is available at: http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap030831.html

Have you ever thought about why people climb mountains? There are probably many different reasons. Can you think of some? Because they like to be outside? Because it is beautiful on the mountain? Because of the view? Because they want to reach the top?

Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, 29,035 feet. It is much, much taller than anything you have ever seen or perhaps, can even imagine. Mountain climbers have a difficult time climbing to the top because it is very cold, storms come up with high winds and there may be an avalanche where a large amount of snow suddenly slides down the mountain. At the top of Mount Everest there is not enough oxygen in the air so climbers have a hard time breathing. Many people have died trying to climb to the summit. Why do you think a person would choose to do something so risky?

We can ask the same question about a choice Jesus made. When he lived on earth he did nothing wrong yet he was punished. He could have saved himself from those who wanted to harm him, but he did not. A criminal who was being punished with Jesus said, “…we receive the due reward for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong” (23:41).

Jesus made a choice to give his life for all of us. The reason for his choice, the reason he did something so risky was because he loves us and wants the best for us. Because of his choice to follow God’s plan, Jesus became our connection to God.

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible