Children’s Sermon

Matthew 3:13-17

Thank You for Being Who You Are

OBJECTS SUGGESTED:

School assignment with an “A” or a star on it. Awards, such as a sports plaque, etc. (Objects suggested are not essential to the presentation of this children’s sermon.)

Has anyone ever told you, “You have a nice smile.” Or, “You did a good job of setting the table.” Or, “You are a fast runner.” Perhaps you did well on a school assignment and received an “A.” Your teacher may have said to you, “Well done, good job.” When a person lets you know they are pleased with something you have done, they are giving you a compliment. We all like to receive compliments and compliments from our parents are particularly nice. Compliments give us a good feeling and make us feel as is our efforts are appreciated.

Do you every give compliments? It is something to think about.When your mom has cooked something especially delicious, it would probably make her feel special if you were to tell her what a good cook she is. If your dad reads to you before you go to bed, let him know that he is good reader and you appreciate being with him.

Your friends like to be complimented too. Do you have a friend who is generous about sharing toys? Tell that friend what a kind person he or she is. I’ll bet you can think of other people you could compliment. A compliment is a way of saying, “Thank you for being who you are.”

When Jesus was baptized by John, he received the best compliment that anyone could receive. Jesus was baptized in a river called Jordan. He went up directly from the water: and behold, the heavens were opened to him. He saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming on him. Behold, a voice out of the heavens said,

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (3:16-17).

Can you imagine being complimented by God in that way? Jesus came to earth to fulfill God’s plan; to show us God’s love and teach us about God’s love. He was obedient and God’s compliment was a way of saying “Thank you for being who you are. I am well pleased.”

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible